We often grow flowers, herbs or vegetables with the children in StartBright but the reasons are sometimes unclear. There are many reasons we do it, the sensory element of digging, planting and watering. The learning that evolves in front of our eyes as the plant grows from a seed, to a sprout, to a plant. But, the main reason we do it is to be connected to the natural world. Children understanding and respecting the world around them is a value we instill throughout our day. We have a responsibility as citizens to look after our environment and care for it so it lasts. The tending to plants shows us what happens if we forget this even for a little bit! But also rewards our efforts tenfold with the production of fruit, flowers or vegetables.

Here's a simple experience to try, growing tomatoes from scraps!

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