Creating Raised Gardens for Haldeman Community Center After-School Program: A Guide for Other After-School Programs

Creating a raised garden for children can seem like a daunting task for small, community-based programs. In reality, a little bit of planning can result in a valuable experience. The goal of the Haldeman garden program was to get the children outside and moving, connect them with nature, and help them begin thinking about their food and its source. This presentation will address key steps to a successful gardening program for children, including determining the type of beds according to labor requirements and permanency of the structures; identifying community partners such as non-profits and local businesses; recruiting volunteers to help; and making plant selections based on availability, climate, and season. Time spent in the garden helps teach children valuable lessons about healthy eating, and opens their minds to many different food choices. Following these simple guidelines, even small community centers can manage fulfilling, successful gardening programs