GREEN thumbs are out in force at Warrnambool kindergartens.
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Warrnambool City Council-run kindergartens, long day care services and Family Day Care programs have joined the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program.
The program was founded by Australian chef and author Stephanie Alexander.
it teaches children skills in growing, harvesting, preparing and sharing fresh, seasonal, nutritious and delicious food, through regular gardening and cooking experiences.
Kitchen gardens have been set up in schools, community centres, kindergartens and childcare centres across Australia.
Warrnamool City Council pre-school coordinator Mary Chenoweth said evidence was mounting around the long-term benefits of involving children in the natural world and building their knowledge and skills in growing food.
“Our early childhood services are embracing this research and involving children for longer periods with natural materials, outdoor play and growing food to eat,” she said.
“When children take part in growing fresh food they are more willing to try it.
“The wonder of seeing a garden grow can spark questions like: Why do the plants need sun? How does the plant “drink” water? Why are worms good for the plants?
“Soon they will be talking about soil composition, life cycles, photosynthesis and more.”
Parents can learn more about the council’s kitchen gardens and other play-based experiences on offer at the kindergarten open day on Monday, June 5.
It is an opportunity to visit one or more of the council’s 10 kindergartens, meet the staff and make a decision about a 2018 enrolment in three or four-year-old kindergarten.
Kindergarten places are also offered at Warrnambool’s Matron Swinton and Sherwood Park Childcare Centre, adjacent to Deakin University.
They can be contacted directly.
All council-run kindergartens have received an “exceeding” rating under the National Quality Standards.