Let’s close the circle
Submitted by Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation
Canadian natural health retailers often position themselves as resources that help people in their communities enjoy healthier lives. They provide natural, organic, and wellness products along with trustworthy guidance on natural health solutions. All such efforts are rooted in community values of supporting family, friends, and local health initiatives.
Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation is strongly aligned with this mission. We create opportunities for children to experience the wonders of the growing cycle and the joys of eating healthy food through our school garden program.
Published research concludes that school gardening can enhance well‑being, enjoyment of school, self‑esteem, teamwork, curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility among children. In practical terms, the evidence substantiates the use of gardening as a supportive health promotion strategy—particularly for better food literacy, fruit and vegetable intake, and engagement in the classroom.
Healthier immune systems
In Finland, researchers created mini gardens and installed planter boxes in daycare centres to introduce children aged three to five to gardening.
After just one month, researchers analyzed changes in the children’s skin and gut microbiota, as well as their blood immune markers. They noticed an increase in T‑cells, along with improvements in skin and gut microbiota, as well as in other immune markers.
“This [study] supports the assumption that contact with nature prevents disorders in the immune system, such as autoimmune diseases and allergies,” says Dr. Aki Sinkkonen, lead researcher.
Hands in the dirt with Plant a Seed
Join us in helping create a school garden near you. We are happy to reach out to a school in your neighbourhood to promote a partnership between your school, Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation, and yourself. We stand ready to support such special initiatives financially and otherwise.
Let’s get our hands dirty by closing the circle of community health promotion. Email us today at gardens@seewhatgrows.org.