Fatima Halloum
Pre-school kids are the newest and youngest students participating in Iramoo Community Centre’s gardening program.
Centre manager Renae Paul believes gardening skills can benefit children of all ages.
“It provides a sensory environment where they can touch, smell and taste the produce in the garden. Planting seeds, playing in the dirt and watering the plants can improve children’s motor skills and increase their love for the garden.”
“It provides an opportunity to learn about the different types of plants, what’s edible and what care is needed for them to grow. Interacting with other children can improve social development and confidence.”
The preschool garden group meets every fortnight and participates in sensory sessions, water play activities and garden exploration.
“Children can have fun, play and develop self-confidence whilst interacting with other children,” Ms Paul said.
“Most children enjoy being outside planting, digging, and growing their own food. What could be more enjoyable than getting dirty and watching things grow.”
