https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz After viewing success story videos from fellow course members, please share your thoughts and reflections by clicking the "+" symbol under the different question headings below. If you are comfortable including your name in your post, please login with Google by clicking the "LOG IN" button at the top right corner of this screen prior to adding your post. Alternatively, you can add your name directly in your post or choose to post anonymously. Please also feel free to continue the discussion by adding comments to fellow course members' posts! en-us 2021-05-04 20:18:58 UTC 2025-10-13 20:15:01 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1596232923 Having the opportunity to watch our new school garden grow has been an amazing experience. I am excited to hear that there are many teachers across the country who are interested or excited about using some space at their school site to build a garden.  
Having ideas and watching it come to life is such a powerful learning experience for kids. 
Building our gardens improves the understanding of a natural process and makes it a hands on experience that can last a lifetime for our kids! ]]> 2021-06-09 16:19:16 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1596232923 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1605570609 I am happy to hear of so many schools joining the garden classroom movement. We are lucky enough at our school to have ample space for our garden to grow and transform as we learn more ways to enhance our outdoor classroom. It is amazing how much can be accomplished in a short amount of time with a little or a lot of space when a school has enough of their staff and community members excited and eager to help!]]> 2021-06-14 16:48:37 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1605570609 ellenbrownell4 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1610953073 Garden Success Stories Discussion
I love that so many schools are adding gardening classrooms to their school.  It was wonderful to here that schools were able to continue to sustain a garden through covid. I know alot of our schools do not start gardening classes until high-school which is so sad. These teachers have inspired me and I went out and got some plants this week. So excited to get started!]]> 2021-06-16 23:04:21 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1610953073 thorntonmandiq https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1615457615 2021-06-19 13:15:02 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1615457615 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1620050635 Many of these videos discussed that their biggest struggle for their gardens was keeping them alive. Schools were shut down and water turned off due to covid in different areas, so many of these stories were about how to keep the garden going. It seems that many teachers got together and still made it a priority to come in once a week or whenever possible to water the garden on their own! Great Work! ]]> 2021-06-22 17:04:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1620050635 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1620138992 I would like to ask all these centers and schools that have these beautiful elaborate gardens how they convinced their directors and superiors to invest in a garden? Or did most teachers have to buy their own materials?]]> 2021-06-22 17:58:49 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1620138992 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621823859 I've been super intrigued to learn about desert gardening, and I'm excited to see that there are so many other educators near me that I can tap as resources. ]]> 2021-06-23 14:49:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621823859 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621826383 I loved hearing about the outdoor classroom, but was sorry to hear that the garden had some difficulties as well. I'm interested to learn about their composting system. ]]> 2021-06-23 14:51:15 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621826383 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621828528 A common theme this year was how the pandemic affected the children's abilities to observe the growing cycles in the garden. ]]> 2021-06-23 14:52:23 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621828528 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621830125 I feel like at our school, Green Our Planet does much more with actually working hands-on in the garden than students/ teachers do. How do you schedule the time in your day for gardening? ]]> 2021-06-23 14:53:16 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1621830125 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1624494542 2021-06-25 01:07:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1624494542 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1624507459    ]]> 2021-06-25 01:14:23 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1624507459 asinay3 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1626545439 seems like many people are just starting up gardens and garden-based learning...makes sense that many who are taking this class would be in the start-up phase.]]> 2021-06-26 19:11:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1626545439 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1627147748 Some of the common themes I have observed from watching my 10 videos was about how the pandemic made it difficult to keep a school garden going, but the schools found ways to keep the gardens growing!]]> 2021-06-27 17:24:00 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1627147748 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628477851 I love the idea of having farmers visit an early childhood site to share what they wear when farming, their routines and to tell stories.  Family farms are making a bit of a comeback and it's so important to show children where local food comes from. Jane B.]]> 2021-06-28 14:32:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628477851 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628482100 Buy-in from the staff at a site, even with varying levels of participation, and a share mission statement can 
contribute to successful educational gardening efforts. Jane B.]]> 2021-06-28 14:35:14 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628482100 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628518731 I'm interested in learning more about the scale/size of school gardens.  If they require fencing or other barriers, how is that accomplished? Jane B.]]> 2021-06-28 14:58:48 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628518731 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628519871 The benefits of gardening education, even on a small scale due to COVID restrictions, were evident. Jane B.]]> 2021-06-28 14:59:34 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628519871 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628523653 I heard so many statements about  shared efforts and creative ways to open up these gardens to the larger community. Jane B.]]> 2021-06-28 15:01:56 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1628523653 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630363927 What a wonderful success to get kids out on the farm and that the kids said it was their favorite thing and bonus to the cooking class!]]> 2021-06-29 16:48:24 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630363927 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630365977 Sunflowers! Cool! Wish we could also do an afterschool program.]]> 2021-06-29 16:49:49 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630365977 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630366666 Many opportunities to use the outdoor and garden spaces for teaching, connecting the motivation of free exploration to academics but the garden is the focus.]]> 2021-06-29 16:50:22 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630366666 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630369100 I would love to have a checklist, or some frame work for what to do first and what to avoid. Many talked about the next steps, I want to make sure we get off on the right foot.]]> 2021-06-29 16:52:40 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630369100 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630370364 Many thoughtful educators that see the multitude of benefits from socio emotional to academic.]]> 2021-06-29 16:53:54 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1630370364 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634176620 2021-07-02 01:32:26 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634176620 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634184032 Yes, Covid proved to be an issue at our site as well.  Many of us teachers were able to keep the garden growing so when the kids came back it was there for them.  It takes a village]]> 2021-07-02 01:36:40 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634184032 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634190896 At our school we are fortunate to have a part-time Outdoor Learning teacher that we work together with on a "Green Team" with each grade level]]> 2021-07-02 01:40:26 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1634190896 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635777240 What I found inspiring is that all had different outlooks on what a success story was from a butterfly garden to working in a park with a ranger. I ready liked hearing all the stories that were told.]]> 2021-07-03 16:02:58 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635777240 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635777783 Kids are willing to try veggies if they grow them on their own. ]]> 2021-07-03 16:04:17 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635777783 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635778370 All classes work with would they have access to in their state or county.]]> 2021-07-03 16:05:35 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635778370 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635779167 Do all the children enjoy working in the garden and do they all learn what is being taught?]]> 2021-07-03 16:06:53 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635779167 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635781352 The student will learn and try new things if they do it themselves or grow it themselves. ]]> 2021-07-03 16:08:58 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635781352 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635805606 How do you schedule time so that all classes can enjoy the garden consistently? We have almost 1000 kids at our school.]]> 2021-07-03 16:53:02 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635805606 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635806129 The successful models really did use the "it takes a village mentality", teachers and students took ownership of the school garden, I would like to foster that sense of community at my school.]]> 2021-07-03 16:53:55 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1635806129 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636363655 I loved how many teachers used the garden as a place for children who needed a more hands on appproach to learning.]]> 2021-07-04 20:17:10 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636363655 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636364336 I love how one of the teachers made something out of nothing when she was excited enough to start up a garden in an area of 12 x12 railroad ties. her enthusiasm was evident to want to build on that one area. All it takes is that one thing to spur on.]]> 2021-07-04 20:19:30 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636364336 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636365420 Going out and researching what was availble in the community was a great idea to start a garden. It can only grow and take off from there with the time and dedication of these teachers.]]> 2021-07-04 20:22:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636365420 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636366289 I would love to see what comes of Mandi's research and garden initiatives.]]> 2021-07-04 20:25:37 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636366289 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636366613 2021-07-04 20:26:43 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1636366613 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637342724 I loved the idea of reading the book Scribble Stones and then having the students create them. I'm going to do that with my students. ]]> 2021-07-05 13:37:08 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637342724 mrscuzman https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637345205 It sounds like the gardens that are the most successful have a lot of staff working together as a team.]]> 2021-07-05 13:39:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637345205 mrscuzman https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637349899 Where are the best places to apply for grants for the garden.  I also would love to talk with Patrick about his landscaping / horticulture class.  Also, how do people find the time to dedicate to the garden on top of all the other teaching responsibilities?  I am struggling with that. Also, what are the best plants / veggies to plant in the Northern Virginia area knowing that the students will be gone July / August?


]]> 2021-07-05 13:42:50 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637349899 mrscuzman https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637353029 Getting more people involved to help out .]]> 2021-07-05 13:45:08 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637353029 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637567099 One of the ideas that really stuck out for me was the sense of wonder that kids experience when able to be outside and experience growing first hand.  The things that kids remember are not the ideas that we tried to drill into their memory but rather the shared wonder and experience of doing something new and amazing side by side.

]]> 2021-07-05 16:58:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637567099 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637569657 How do you successfully engage the full class when taking them out in the garden?]]> 2021-07-05 17:01:43 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637569657 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637571267 Starting up something new sometimes starts with one person but you need to find ways to draw others in to support a full school program. I did afterschool mini workshops for any interested teachers. I provided some beginning support on my breaks and worked with beginner teachers to get them confident enough to try it on their own. I organized schedules so that no one task fell solely on one person. We are lucky to have summer camp programs over the holidays that help keep our garden happy over the summer. You need to find or make a tribe. I would like to include more community people now that we are allowed to open up a little. This ensures the longevity of the vision past even the time that I will be here. ]]> 2021-07-05 17:03:38 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637571267 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637578542 Finding the regular support of others that are a little further down the track helps when you hit challenges. You have someone to bounce ideas off of and someone to share their experience with similar circumstances. Even if they are not in your school or area have a blog or online community has been really helpful to growing our program.]]> 2021-07-05 17:10:29 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637578542 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637834306 I found most inspiring that some of us who are just starting a garden are getting positive messages from others who have been doing a garden and are working on the lessons. We are all in this together.]]> 2021-07-05 23:23:16 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637834306 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637836031 What I learned from some of the posts is that we have to work in a team to accomplish our dream. Asking for help is not showing weakness.]]> 2021-07-05 23:26:11 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637836031 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637836821 I heard a lot of classrooms barely started when covid shut everything down but those teachers found a way to keep their gardens going until they could get the kids back into the garden]]> 2021-07-05 23:27:11 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637836821 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637838416 How has it been with the kids getting back into the gardens.
Did they show the same enthusiasm, were they surprised that they were still growing?]]> 2021-07-05 23:29:47 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637838416 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637839450 Making the garden a place to really talk with the kids. Help sort out problems they may be having. Bringing more open communication in a comfortable environment]]> 2021-07-05 23:31:16 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1637839450 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639128764 I started looking at the garden as a place to help students with their emotions and a place to help them coop and grow emotionally.]]> 2021-07-06 18:10:43 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639128764 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639132540 a common theme observed was that most places did not have a garden but wanted to learn how to start one. Also if they did have a garden they were stopped dew to Covid.]]> 2021-07-06 18:15:06 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639132540 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639134704 Actions taken for success were the teachers and community working together for the success of the garden.
Also having the space for a garden .]]> 2021-07-06 18:17:38 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639134704 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639137122 for those who did have gardens before Covid , what was the conditions of the garden when you came back and did you need to replant or completely restart their gardens.]]> 2021-07-06 18:20:26 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639137122 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639140396 A relevant story I related to was someone said they sprout seed in paper towel and place them in the window for children to see. I did this same activity this Spring with my kids. ]]> 2021-07-06 18:24:36 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1639140396 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640849201 Creativity related to gardens is off the charts in this group! From "Scribble Stones" for Social-emotional use in an outdoor courtyard, to indoor "gardens" in Michigan, to a full farming experience planting pumpkins--and learning about both success and failure of crops in the process--I'm inspired! 
-Traci Bianchini, Snohomish WA]]> 2021-07-07 21:12:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640849201 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640858793 I really liked hearing from Pam Soucy with her pumpkin property in Maine. They initially moved pumpkins to the student planting areas where pumkins failed to grow, but then decided providing students with a real experience of how farmers deal with non-pollination, etc. would be better. I agree! I like the use of 6 plots planted by a groups of 5 students and involving them in all the steps/process, with the understanding that sometimes things happen that lead to no pumpkins. I wonder if adding a story such as the locust story from Laura Ingalls Wilder would be a way to help kids understand some of what can happen to a crop.
Traci Bianchini, Snohomish WA]]> 2021-07-07 21:27:50 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640858793 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640861277 Almost every story reflected having to deal with students out of the building for some portion of the growing/harvest cycle, whether for covid or the time of the school year. Here in WA, we are also on a Sep to June schedule. Local products aren't ready for harvest until June (strawberries are usually first), so It would be tough to run a "farm to table" program, unless there were a summer school option for kids to continue into harvest in July/August. Farmers markets go through september, so once school began again in the fall, there could be a sale option. The other thing I appreciated was the number of people like me, with no garden classroom experience, but curious and thinking of ways to incorporate gardens into curriculum ( Mandi Thornton, Fairfax VA, US History teacher, for example).
Traci Bianchini, Snohomish, WA]]> 2021-07-07 21:31:55 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640861277 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640864014 Several people mentioned funding through partnerships...I'd be curious about the application process and what would really be feasible here in WA state. I'm curious about the cost to build and maintain a garden space year round as well as the personnel needed to run it. I'd love to see an example of a start up plan, and how it looks on a typical day--how many students are in the garden, how many adults, do the adults do things the kids can't or aren't around for that are essential?]]> 2021-07-07 21:36:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640864014 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640866350 I am a substitute teacher, so hearing about the variety of ideas and people needed to execute helped me understand what I might be able to propose/participate in as "ancillary" staff. 
Traci Bianchini Snohomish WA]]> 2021-07-07 21:39:32 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1640866350 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1641997513 2021-07-08 14:29:22 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1641997513 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642078286 I find it inspiring to know that folks are in many different stages of their gardens. Some are fully established well oiled machines. Others are still glimmers of imagination. That's okay. These projects are always a work in progress. I also appreciate that many people started something by themselves and now have a team of supporters whether they be students, colleagues or partners in the broader community. 

Pat Z]]> 2021-07-08 15:31:23 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642078286 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642082090 A couple of people's school gardens stemmed from walking the grounds and seeing a garden that 'once was a garden'. All of these projects begin with taking that first step. They will inevitably grow and evolve over time but taking that first step and asking if we can start a garden or rehab an old garden is enough to get a ball rolling. 

Pat Z]]> 2021-07-08 15:34:39 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642082090 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642086013 It seems our disconnect with where our food comes from is growing rapidly. In fact, farming for food is an intimate process that when performed makes us connect with food in an inescapable way. I love the seed to table approach that popped up a few times. ]]> 2021-07-08 15:38:16 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642086013 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642091883 I suppose I have questions regarding how official the communication is with invested stakeholders. Are there meetings? An email distribution list? Multiple ones for scheduling times and/ or activities in the garden? Another for community partners? 

Pat Z]]> 2021-07-08 15:43:20 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642091883 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642095012 Gardens can serve as a hub for all core academic and elective offerings. It seems as if successful programs have integrated the garden into the fabric of the entire school community. Certainly some groups may put in the brunt of the physical gardening work but it seems like when the garden is an integral component of the school community and not an outlier or afterthought, they tend to thrive.]]> 2021-07-08 15:46:07 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642095012 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642467369 2021-07-08 23:29:49 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1642467369 debkim02 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643972113 Truly such amazing stories of garden-based education. Very encouraging words of wisdom from facilitating garden-based education to successes as well as failures. ]]> 2021-07-10 08:51:52 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643972113 debkim02 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643985523 "Aha" moments for me have been letting go and giving 100% of the exploration process to the children. Where I work children have always been given a message of "please don't pick anything green, it's still living, we need to be respectful of all living things" I'm really observing more and trusting the process. This course has show me that providing the opportunity and freedom to let the children pick from bushes, plants, flowers etc. allows for much more meaningful hands on learning. My favorite self taught teachable moment recently happened when a toddler kept picking green blueberries, the day she picked a ripe juicy blue one and made the discovery and observation how much better the blue ones tasted just reinforced allowing children to have the freedom to really explore their environment. ]]> 2021-07-10 09:02:02 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643985523 debkim02 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643988295 I'm very interested in learning about the landscaping and horticulture class.]]> 2021-07-10 09:12:27 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643988295 debkim02 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643988673 Teamwork seems to be the common thread that is a major contributor to a successful garden as well as garden-based education.]]> 2021-07-10 09:13:40 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643988673 debkim02 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643989663 Children take great pride and are invested in the process if they've been involved in the process since its inception. We had so many children planting, watering, weeding that when it was time to harvest our radishes we planted from seed, most of the toddlers were willingly to try them.]]> 2021-07-10 09:17:01 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1643989663 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644203112 2021-07-10 19:34:22 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644203112 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644203622 I have the same question as well. How have you been able to fund your gardens?]]> 2021-07-10 19:36:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644203622 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644533119 I was very excited to hear how many outdoor classrooms there]]> 2021-07-11 13:11:35 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644533119 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644721591 Like everything with the course, I find some many things interesting and inspiring. One stand out was using the outdoor space/garden as a place were students were able to obtain their workplace experience during COVID. This was such a creative and meaningful way to fulfill this requirement. I love how the program reached out to the facilities department and other professionals to make this happen.]]> 2021-07-11 21:49:36 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644721591 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644723158 An example that seems important to the success of a program is making sure that there is a group of people involved and knowledgeable so the program doesn't depend on one person and stop once that one person leaves. ]]> 2021-07-11 21:55:09 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644723158 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644725148 A common theme I observed was how much learning in done through these different programs and how engaged the students are in the activities in their outdoor classrooms/gardens.]]> 2021-07-11 22:02:27 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644725148 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644725576 In the public school setting, do schools have a paid staff member for the outdoor classroom/garden. My specific concern is maintaining the garden over the summer break. It seems like it could be hit or miss with volunteers.]]> 2021-07-11 22:04:14 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644725576 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644726319 The elementary school classrooms are the most relevant to my work. I love the idea of having an exploration area, "mud pit" for younger students to mess around in. I loved the idea of selling some of the items from the garden but know that our garden isn't that productive yet. I love the idea of selling herbs. I think that is something that we can start with as a community building/PR activity. ]]> 2021-07-11 22:07:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644726319 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644897161 I found out that teachers are finding ways to incorporate hands on activities to their teaching strategies or learning process. This gives me more ideas to promote gardening skills to my life skills classes.]]> 2021-07-12 00:56:55 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644897161 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644915533 Danielle T
The engagement of students during hands on activity and their desire to create, discover and build their self confidence ]]> 2021-07-12 01:05:02 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1644915533 thepeanutgallerycc https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646169358 2021-07-12 17:02:20 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646169358 thepeanutgallerycc https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646175411 2021-07-12 17:08:51 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646175411 thepeanutgallerycc https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646178468 2021-07-12 17:11:53 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646178468 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646181152 A common theme through all the videos I watched is the evident excitement that is generated with building and maintaining a school garden. I find it so interesting and inspiring that a garden can build confidence in individuals that otherwise find their school day to be challenging.]]> 2021-07-12 17:14:42 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646181152 thepeanutgallerycc https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646181512 2021-07-12 17:14:56 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646181512 thepeanutgallerycc https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646183500 2021-07-12 17:16:58 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646183500 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646186476 Success is watching children engaged and curious about their environment. I saw this example in Heather G's video in BC, Canada, in the part where her students led her around the school grounds and found a "wild space" where the students could naturally explore wildlife and play in the mud! That's success!]]> 2021-07-12 17:20:13 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646186476 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646190906 Common themes that I observed was how school gardens bring feelings of excitement, curious thoughts and questions, and building of community and a sense of purpose for all.]]> 2021-07-12 17:25:09 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646190906 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646193082 To Shelby P- Shelby was successful in providing her 2 year old students a project where they made seed balls and planted them and when sprouts started to come through, her students wanted to show EVERYONE! So adorable! Shelby- were you able to generate same excitement at the learning center you were transferred to to help out the maternity leave?]]> 2021-07-12 17:27:42 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646193082 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646198255 I have been looking for a book to share with all grade levels at my school and to have a common story for all that relates to the garden. I found this solution by listening to Bryce B and learning about the book, Seedfolks. I will try this out and thank you for sharing this children's novella!]]> 2021-07-12 17:33:32 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646198255 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646277437 In almost all of the videos that I watched, participants mentioned that they are so THANKFUL to have colleagues with whom they can collaborate as well as to lessen the load!


]]> 2021-07-12 19:13:28 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646277437 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646282590 Not only are people from all over the country and beyond, but their roles, level of experience, and stages in garden classroom development are widely varied as well. It makes me feel a little better about where I am in my own space!

]]> 2021-07-12 19:20:24 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646282590 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646286072 Of all of the videos that I watched, almost all were at a bit of a standstill due to the pandemic and/or other obstacles OR they had yet to start a program. While this can be viewed as frustrating, I actually took it as refreshing to hear as it is reassurance that many of us are in similar situations! 

]]> 2021-07-12 19:25:01 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646286072 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646373634 2021-07-12 21:43:51 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646373634 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646377800 2021-07-12 21:50:55 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646377800 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646395409 2021-07-12 22:24:37 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646395409 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646397253 It seems like there are many schools just starting a garden program. In some cases Covid was a deterrent. It would be overwhelming to think that you have to start out with a massive garden plan. I like the idea that anyone can do this with some containers to start and maybe grow a little at a time. ]]> 2021-07-12 22:28:20 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646397253 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646399278 I enjoyed the post by Denise in Orland ME. If I were a parent I would be so happy that my child was getting an education at an early age and would have that wonder and hands-on experiences to foster knowledge and growth ]]> 2021-07-12 22:32:18 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1646399278 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1647005896 I enjoyed hearing the success story reading “Seed Folks” and having the children plant garden beds related to characters in the book. I am curious about checking the book out and seeing how it could relate to younger children and the garden experience! ]]> 2021-07-13 03:31:29 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1647005896 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1647008364 Children feel pride and are more open to trying vegetables when they are part of the growing process and harvesting. ]]> 2021-07-13 03:32:48 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1647008364 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648064303 While listening, I hear first the uncertainty of starting something in the garden to really just trying it out. More time than not, it actually works and everyone benefits from the new change! ]]> 2021-07-13 19:45:19 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648064303 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648065165 I love involving students in the entire process of forming a garden. At first, I was envisioning actually getting outside much later - when the space was prepped, etc. But now, I see this as a chance to really allow students to take ownership of the space that they will later cultivate and make their own.]]> 2021-07-13 19:46:37 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648065165 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648134062 What I think is the most interesting with some of these stories is that there are many teachers that want to start a garden at their school but have to yet. I think that the students will truly benefit from the school gardens. ]]> 2021-07-13 21:40:15 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648134062 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648136607 I noticed that there are many people that want to start a garden at their school, but are not sure what their school will allow. They should do a presentation about the benefits to their students and community in order to get one going as it would be so beneficial.]]> 2021-07-13 21:45:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648136607 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648138563 I would like to know what grants that one of the schools got. It would be great to be able to know how easy or difficult it is. Also it would be good to know of any links or websites to go to to find out more information.]]> 2021-07-13 21:48:29 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1648138563 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1649874022 Almost every video I watched mentioned the joy that work in/produce from a garden brought to gardeners and people visiting gardens.  And every person spoke with a smile on their faces, too.  ]]> 2021-07-14 21:07:18 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1649874022 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1649906660 2021-07-14 22:07:49 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1649906660 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651441143 This idea of highlighting diversity through vegetables would appeal to all ages and help make the garden culturally responsive.]]> 2021-07-15 17:27:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651441143 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651443826 I enjoyed the story from Heather in BC how rebuilding the dilapidated gardens by the older students, encouraged students to plant in spaces around the school. This has to make the environment much more welcoming.]]> 2021-07-15 17:30:27 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651443826 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651445607 One things teachers do well is to keep going with projects, lessons, financial struggles etc. I saw in all of these successes that being creative, motivated, and rising to the challenge makes good things happen.]]> 2021-07-15 17:32:36 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651445607 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651447463 I would like to ask Pam in Winthrop ME if having the lessons on what is necessary for farming and what could go wrong made it easier for the students this year to accept that their particular plant did not yield fruit? Did knowing that growing is like a science project help lessen the disappointment?]]> 2021-07-15 17:34:40 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651447463 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651449624 I would have to say that Krista's experience with Green Our Planet is relevant to mine and she gave me some insight on how to work with them with scheduling planting and harvesting.]]> 2021-07-15 17:36:45 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651449624 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651489673 I thought it was so awesome to hear many people talking about how their gardens were a place where ALL sorts of students young and old and from all different learning capacities could gather and "grow" together. ]]> 2021-07-15 18:26:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651489673 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651493166 I heard in many videos that gardens had a problem occur. In most cases it was COVID, but I heard all sorts, for example, like pumpkins not growing how they were intended to grow. It was neat to hear how gardens have been a continuous area where things do not always go as planned, but we can learn from those experiments and continue to improve what we know. ]]> 2021-07-15 18:30:39 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651493166 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651497345 In most videos, it was never just 1 person, 1 class, or 1 subject responsible for the success. ]]> 2021-07-15 18:36:05 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651497345 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651498401 I watched some videos of people that would not have as much of a problem with this, but I am curious for those whose school year is almost half winter months, what do they do in order to continue to promote a garden education. ]]> 2021-07-15 18:37:46 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651498401 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651501248 I think a solution to continuing to benefit our garden education program would be to continue to collaborate with other subject areas to get them involved in our garden as well. ]]> 2021-07-15 18:41:32 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1651501248 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1652804325 Some schools have community members (some with curriculum and resources) that lead programs. That means these schools are being shown how to do environmental education with expertise and high-quality curricula/resources.]]> 2021-07-16 15:57:00 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1652804325 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1652812288 I'm noticing a trend - all of these programs started with a small idea, observation, or need. That something small snowballed into something bigger and better than what they originally thought.]]> 2021-07-16 16:07:08 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1652812288 amdollar https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653437996 The theme this summer was "Buzzing Around the Learning"! Our team worked on ideas kids would enjoy that connected to BUGS!!...bees, ants,butterflies etc.
Lots of fun!
AMD]]> 2021-07-17 18:30:23 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653437996 amdollar https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653438754 I have learned that it takes time and devotion to get things started  to be successful over a long period. I need to look at the whole picture over a period of time for great results when planning gardening for kids.
AMD]]> 2021-07-17 18:33:22 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653438754 amdollar https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653439704 Getting teachers and parents and the community involved in spreading the word of gardening with kids as a great success story for everyone involved!!
AMD ]]> 2021-07-17 18:36:43 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1653439704 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654672466 She is transforming a courtyard space into an edible garden and outdoor classroom space. That is great!
Angel Leon]]> 2021-07-19 12:07:06 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654672466 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654672867 I noticed that a few special education teachers are interested in a sensory program for their students with special needs. I realized that my students with autism enjoy gardening and plan to implement the outdoor classroom plan as soon as my administrators give the "okay." Angel Leon]]> 2021-07-19 12:07:50 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654672867 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654674180 I want to know where to begin to request grants, how to write a proposal, and who should I contact with my ideas of an edible garden. I noticed that many of the flipgrid videos I listened to have PTA, and other resources to rely on.
Angel Leon]]> 2021-07-19 12:10:09 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654674180 chrissiedavis15 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654863564 2021-07-19 15:27:50 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654863564 chrissiedavis15 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654864832 2021-07-19 15:29:19 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654864832 chrissiedavis15 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654866162 2021-07-19 15:30:37 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654866162 chrissiedavis15 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654866972 2021-07-19 15:31:23 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654866972 chrissiedavis15 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654867767 2021-07-19 15:32:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1654867767 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1658288844 I loved hearing about all the possibilities and creativity that teachers have used to transform outdoor spaces into gardens. I think I've always had this one idea that a school has to already have a large, open space in order to create a garden but I was wrong! I enjoyed seeing a teacher explain how they're transforming a courtyard and using what was already there to make it into something more useful!]]> 2021-07-22 13:10:27 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1658288844 krystynr https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1662281111 I Loved the idea that sometimes kids are not as motivated to accomplish things in the garden, but if they are consistently given time to work in the garden, they will accomplish a lot over time. ]]> 2021-07-27 16:27:17 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1662281111 krystynr https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1662281917 I want to find out more about this program that assigns a FARMER to a school! I would love that resource!]]> 2021-07-27 16:28:18 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1662281917 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663303913 I loved to story of the compost that was started by a teacher and then slowly everyone started adding to the compost. I have wondered about compost in the schoolyard. Our school has all our compost picked up by garbage to garden, but I would like to find out more about starting a compost at school.]]> 2021-07-28 17:03:45 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663303913 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663382558 Thought this was such a great idea to get started. Demonstrated that every school can get started in the garden]]> 2021-07-28 19:22:41 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663382558 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663382998 Community support for supplies and volunteers is something that was listed as helpful in many of the videos. ]]> 2021-07-28 19:23:27 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663382998 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663384069 Students feedback is always positive and appreicative.]]> 2021-07-28 19:24:20 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1663384069 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666095359 Elaine Tholen

]]> 2021-08-02 00:02:38 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666095359 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666095923 Elaine Tholen

]]> 2021-08-02 00:03:48 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666095923 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666096817 Elaine Tholen

]]> 2021-08-02 00:05:25 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666096817 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666097847 Elaine Tholen

]]> 2021-08-02 00:07:20 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666097847 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666098864 Elaine Tholen

]]> 2021-08-02 00:09:14 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1666098864 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1667930652 2021-08-03 15:17:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1667930652 lmrode https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1670574353 Maintaining school gardens and providing opportunities for students to engage in gardening was difficult during school building closures and with COVID restrictions. ]]> 2021-08-06 01:44:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1670574353 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1672135682 I am just so happy to hear that someone was able to get around the liability issue of donating food. Yay, partnerships! As someone who has worked in the food service industry, it's abhorrent how much fresh, perfectly good food is thrown away for no good reason. ]]> 2021-08-08 18:38:18 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1672135682 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674531622 I was amazed by the fact that even though everyone is from different locations and works with different age groups, how similar many of the success stories were. Many folks started out by articulating the "non-successful" part of their garden story, and even though the end result seemed to be a flop - there was always a silver lining.  What I think most garden educators have experienced is that you can never predict how things will turn out, and even if the endpoint is not what you had hoped for, you can learn from the experience no matter what. So - maybe things did not go to plan, but what actually happened is a success OR what we learned from the experience helps us in the future, so a success as well.  It's inspiring to know that we are all learning as we go.
Kimberley Mathews
Mason Crest ES
Annandale, VA]]> 2021-08-10 19:48:19 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674531622 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674534038 Most gardeners are learning as they go and dealing with unforeseen circumstances. The common thread that I see is that folks keep working toward a vision and one step at a time.]]> 2021-08-10 19:51:14 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674534038 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674539374 What I found most relevant is that each gardener was taking similar steps to begin or maintain a program much like I am - and this was so helpful to realize that any steps are steps in the right direction. I often compare our school garden to others and think of all that needs to be done or what we have not been able to achieve, and what I learned is that we have achieved so much in a few years. There is always room for growth and change, however, celebrate your successes no matter how small you think they are. Just seeing so many garden educators on different paths and journeys was enlightening and showed me that we are in a pretty good place.]]> 2021-08-10 19:57:33 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1674539374 timothyfoley773 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1675675482 It is fascinating how our minds arrange likes and dislikes. Hearing a student say that she does not like to eat fruit makes this student sound unlikely to enjoy the garden. For some reason, this student sees a difference or has a different association between fruit from a market and fruit right off the plant. Fruit from a market = dislike. Fruit from the garden = like. The garden has provided an opportunity for her to sample fruit that she would have rejected. It is a reminder to present opportunities to students even if they appear uninterested. The garden provides a passive way to do that by giving the student a chance to act on her own.]]> 2021-08-11 16:07:39 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1675675482 timothyfoley773 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1676049283 Educating students about the role of native plants and pollinators. Discovering invasive species in the garden and removing them.]]> 2021-08-11 22:56:55 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1676049283 timothyfoley773 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1676050416 For example, the Raising Monarch program.  I'm in Fairfax county but I never heard of this.  I don't know if it is because the programs are not in my grade level or if it is because there is an e-mail I'm not getting.]]> 2021-08-11 22:58:46 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1676050416 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678690881 I heard several people mention monarch butterflies. What a great addition to a garden! I have heard teachers in my own building who have grown the butterflies and then released them outside. However, we have not talked about a creating a pollinator garden that would help that project. Next year, I plan on talking to our first grade teachers about adding milkweed and other plants to create a pollinator area in our garden for their next release!]]> 2021-08-13 22:55:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678690881 jencarness https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678693290 I enjoyed hearing about the many community collaborations that have led to successful programs. One person mentioned a collaboration between the school and the food/nutrition staff. It was this collaboration that led to donations of uneaten food as well as food from their garden to local food banks. What a great way to exemplify service learning!]]> 2021-08-13 23:00:17 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678693290 jencarness https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678694727 The biggest theme I noticed was the passion of the people working in the schools! We are all here because we believe that this is important...no matter what the obstacles. Everyone had some sort of success, even if they were just starting out. This kind of enthusiasm is contagious and gets me excited to go back to work and try some new things!]]> 2021-08-13 23:03:29 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1678694727 lmrode https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679120115 2021-08-14 18:14:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679120115 lmrode https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679120461 2021-08-14 18:16:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679120461 katieheule https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679596640 2021-08-15 20:52:06 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679596640 katieheule https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679596913 2021-08-15 20:52:49 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679596913 katieheule https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679597230 2021-08-15 20:53:51 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679597230 katieheule https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679597609 2021-08-15 20:55:19 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679597609 katieheule https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679598412 2021-08-15 20:58:25 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679598412 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679735485 I love hearing about transformed spaces. So often there are so many opportunities but not enough willing volunteers. The people in this course who took charge and made the change are so inspirational.]]> 2021-08-16 01:32:57 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1679735485 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684781840 All of the success stories are great to hear and I have gotten some great ideas to get started with. Thank you for sharing.]]> 2021-08-18 20:40:06 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684781840 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684784732 Many of the videos talked about working together with other teachers, staff, and outside groups to get the garden classroom started and building on over the years.]]> 2021-08-18 20:43:03 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684784732 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684790881 Covid was a common theme for many, but teamwork and pride was another one. Every one showed pride in what they had done with what they had to develop a successfull garden.]]> 2021-08-18 20:48:41 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1684790881 danafife https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689637981 The amount of care and energy teachers are putting into their school's gardens is inspiring. We know teaching is a demanding career, and yet teachers still have a desire, caring, and dedication to a school garden on top of their regular activities. Awesome!]]> 2021-08-22 17:37:07 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689637981 danafife https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689639048 I am noticing that the most successful gardens are those who have many hands working as one. Not all responsibility lies on one person, the students feel ownership of the garden space, and the community is welcomed to get involved. ]]> 2021-08-22 17:40:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689639048 danafife https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689639794 COVID Limitations
Supporting Students with Special Needs
Life Skills / Healthy Eating]]> 2021-08-22 17:42:04 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689639794 danafife https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689640562 How are school gardens encouraging and keeping community involvement? We want to have parents and community members involved, but as of now there is very little community involvement. It sounds like we need to get the word out and give access to the community.]]> 2021-08-22 17:44:10 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689640562 danafife https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689641249 Students feeling a sense of ownership and agency in their garden is something I would like to facilitate. ]]> 2021-08-22 17:46:08 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1689641249 https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1698860913 2021-08-26 16:43:54 UTC https://padlet.com/teachinginnaturesclassroom/r8kvekwhwbinqsqz/wish/1698860913