This lesson covers topics related to selecting a garden for a child care program and integrating garden activities into the curriculum. Through an interactive process participants will be able to determine what type of garden and what plants might work best for their program. A review of the Nebraska Early Learning Guidelines is given and then connects the guidelines to curriculum and activities.
Approximate Length: 1 hour
Authors: Katie Fink
Associate Extension Educator
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The following resources helps to expand your knowledge and understanding of how to support children’s learning through gardening activities.
About the Expert: Julia Torquati, PhD – Associate Professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her work focuses on early childhood environmental education; research on children and nature, quality of early care and education, and early childhood teacher preparation.
| Nebraska Gardening Resources | ||
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| Nebraska Extension Food & Nutrition. This website provides a variety of information on food safety, nutrition, health, eating locally, and other topics related to food in Nebraska. |
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| NebGuides on Gardening. This list of guides includes a variety of resources providing information on gardening in Nebraska. |
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| Douglas County Health Department Community Gardens. Providing information on how to get involved in community gardening in Douglas County and other tips. |
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| Early Childhood Resources | ||
|---|---|---|
| The Learning Child Page. | ||
| The Learning Child's Pinterest Page. | ||
| Ages and Stages: Infant (2-3 Years Old). | ||
| Nebraska Department of Education: Early Learning Guidelines. | ||
| Interactive Publications | ||
|---|---|---|
| Interactive Publications allow you to engage in interactive learning activities while you click and read! | ||
| USDA's Grow It, Like It, Try It | ||
| Plant Hardiness Zones | ||
| Helping Young Children Practice Science Skills By Planting a Garden | ||
| How Teachers Can Include School Gardens in the Classroom Curriculum | ||