“The process of gardening gives empowering experiences. Students engaged in designing and maintaining gardens show an increase in self-efficacy (Lekies, et al., 2006; Poston, Shoemaker, & Dzewaltowsk., 2005), proenvironmental attitudes (Mayer-Smith, Bartosh, & Peterat, 2007; Skelly & Zajicek, 1998; Skelly & Bradley, 2007) and environmental stewardship (Alexander, North, & Hendren, 1995; MayerSmith, Bartosh, & Peterat, 2007; Pothukuchi, 2004; Waliczek, Bradley, & Zajicek, 2001). Plus, active gardening, such as picking flowers or planting trees as a child, has been shown to have a strong influence on how natural areas and gardens are valued in adulthood (Lohr & Pearson-Mims, 2005).” (Yost & Chawla, 2009)

In conjunction with McCracken County 4-H and Youth Development agent Lisa Dodson, Samantha Anderson, McCracken County agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, facilitated a memorial garden planting workshop during the McNabb Elementary School Summer Program.

Students who participated ranged from third to fifth grades and represented a culturally and socioeconomically diverse school system. Participating students engaged in site preparation, planting, preventative pest management and landscape design. 

The program was attended by sixty youth and five adult leaders. Throughout the day, youth expressed their enjoyment in participation. Notably, one student expressed interested in future educational pathways related to horticulture and turf management.

Yost, B., & Chawla, L. (2009, February). Benefits of Gardening for Children. Denver; University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center.