Connect with and learn
about natural cycles, waste management and the web of life
If you have limited access to outdoor spaces, worm farming and container gardening are two practical ways you can take environmental education inside.
Teach Worm Farming to Children
Worm farming involves using the ‘red wriggler’ breed of earthworm to process organic waste and turn it into excellent quality organic compost and liquid fertilizer (worm tea). Earthchild Project have used a three tiered plastic worm farm model which enables it to live in the classroom. We have found that worm farming is a wonderful way to get children excited about digging in the soil. It’s also a great way for them to connect with and learn about natural cycles, waste management and the web of life.
Tips for worm farming with children:
- Involve them in the whole process from setting up the farm, to feeding and harvesting the compost.
- Ensure the worm farm is located somewhere that children can easily access.
- Ensure the worm farm is not exposed to direct sunlight.
- Make one day of the week a feeding day. If with a class of children you can make a rotating roster of ‘food collectors’ and ‘feeders’.
- Do an experiment with the ‘worm tea’ fertiliser, growing two of the same plant and then watering one with water and one with worm tea, and monitoring the difference.
Teaching Organic Gardening to Children
You don’t need to have a big garden to give children the opportunity the grow their own food. Caring for just one plant from seed to harvest can be a profound experience. They can learn about the relationship between the sun, the earth, water, other living creatures and themselves.
When we harvest and eat what we have grown, we gain a deeper appreciation for the food we eat and how it connects our bodies to the earth. Caring for a plant is also a great way for children to learn valuable life skills such as taking responsibility, team work, patience and commitment.
HOW TO GROW YOUR OWN SUNFLOWER SPROUTS
Growing sunflower sprouts are a great way to get your children excited about gardening. The seeds are large and fast growing, the sprouts are tasty and nutritious, and you can even transplant a few and grow your own sunflowers.
- Soak your sunflower seeds in water overnight
- Punch holes in an old plastic ice-cream container
- Fill the container with 1/3 compost, 2/3 soil mix
- Spread a single layer of sunflower seeds over the top and cover with a thin layer of soil mixture
- Place the container by a sunny windowsill on a layer of newspaper or a drainage tray
- Water once or twice a day or as often is needed to keep moist
The sprouts should be ready within 6 – 8 days or when they are about 5cm tall. You should harvest them before the ‘true leaves’ begin to show (these are the leaves that appear from the centre of the first two leaves). To harvest, snip them off with scissors, enjoy fresh and store the rest in the refrigerator in a sealed dry container.
Sunflower greens are full of vitamins, minerals and are almost 25% protein. Use them in salads, sandwiches, as a soup topping or even juiced.
This is part of the “Seed Pack – Resources for facilitating holistic education and working” – a free guide offered by Earthchild, to support others in their journey connecting children to themselves, others and the environment. Support our work with Earth Children from under-resourced communities by donating.