June's Article Of The Month Is Here!

This month, the winning article was written by industry expert and guest author, Louise Mercieca. Dive in below!

How Gardening Transforms Children’s Mental Health And Well-Being!

The significance of gardening in the early years goes beyond mere activity; it shapes lifelong habits and attitudes towards nutrition, well-being , and environmental stewardship. Introducing children to gardening, with its focus on cultivating fruits and vegetables, offers a gateway to nurturing health-conscious behaviours.?

In today's environment, where processed foods dominate the market, gardening stands as a counterbalance, imparting vital lessons on healthy eating from an early age. By actively participating in growing produce, children establish a profound connection with their food, fostering autonomy in dietary choices and a genuine appreciation for nutritious options.

This hands-on approach not only promotes healthier eating habits but also instils a lifelong understanding of the origins of food, its environmental impact, and its role in maintaining a healthy balanced diet.

Physical And Mental Well-Being

Gardening offers a holistic approach to support children's physical and mental well-being . Gardening can be a very physical activity with planting, weeding, and tending to the garden contributing to general activity levels, improved motor skills, coordination, and overall physical health.?

The very nature of gardening means that children can spend more time outside. Exposing children to sunlight promotes the synthesis of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and mood. With 16% of children in the UK estimated to have a vitamin D deficiency, almost 20% of children in the UK having vitamin D levels lower than the recommended amount, and 1 in 6 adults in the UK having low levels of vitamin D, family time outside in a garden could be a bone-boosting, mood-boosting family activity.?

A colourful garden, particularly the colour green can have a calming effect on anxiety and an uplifting effect on our mood. Exposure to the colour green in nature has been associated with a reduction in blood pressure and a decrease in anxiety.

Click here to read the full article and learn how you can promote children's well-being now that the sun is back!

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