Garden Enrichment instructor Lauren Greis and the young gardeners of ACC getting a head start on spring
Even in January, Albany kids are getting their hands dirty, thanks to SchoolCARE’s funding of garden enrichment. Instructor Lauren Greis works with four preschool classes at Albany Children’s Center and three transitional kindergarten classes between ACC and Ocean View.
On a recent winter day, Lauren led eight bundled-up preschoolers out into the yard to plant broccoli seeds in containers and to transplant onion sprouts into raised garden boxes.
Lauren’s position makes small-group work possible, said Albany Children’s Center Director Anna Mansker. “Instead of all twenty four kids planting seedlings at once, she works with eight kids, while paraeducators work with other children sorting seeds and drawing maps of the garden.
“Children working together in small groups makes for a more meaningful experience,” said Anna. “Early childhood education is very hands-on and play-based. Gardening really supports that.”
For more information or to make a donation, check out our website!
On a recent winter day, Lauren led eight bundled-up preschoolers out into the yard to plant broccoli seeds in containers and to transplant onion sprouts into raised garden boxes.
Lauren’s position makes small-group work possible, said Albany Children’s Center Director Anna Mansker. “Instead of all twenty four kids planting seedlings at once, she works with eight kids, while paraeducators work with other children sorting seeds and drawing maps of the garden.
“Children working together in small groups makes for a more meaningful experience,” said Anna. “Early childhood education is very hands-on and play-based. Gardening really supports that.”
For more information or to make a donation, check out our website!