Flourishing Fields is a comprehensive 16-week afterschool program designed for schools and community centers. This initiative aims to engage teens in gardening and ecology education, fostering a connection with nature and promoting environmental stewardship.
Why It Matters: Engaging teens in gardening and ecology is crucial for their mental and emotional well-being and environmental awareness:
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: A 2022 review found that gardening significantly reduces stress, anxiety, and depression among adolescents aged 12-18.
Improved Mental Health: Spending time in nature enhances mental health, with studies showing at least 120 minutes per week in nature linked to better health and psychological well-being.
Environmental Awareness: 84% of young people feel they need more information to prevent climate change, highlighting the need for ecological education.
Basics of gardening, plant biology, and soil health through composting and fertilization.
Identification and propagation of native plants, understanding biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Exploring symbiotic relationships, rhizome networks, and the hidden life of trees.
Connecting gardening to community building and promoting healthy eating habits.
Learning about waste management, the Blue Economy, and renewable energy sources
Understanding regenerative systems, equilibrium, and eco-balance in nature.
Here are some great videos to give you an idea of what we will incorporate into our program.
Fill out our interest form to be alerted when our program is running and where.
