Katie Rainka
Nutrition and Healthy School Coordinator
Florida Department of Education

325 W. Gaines Street, Suite 444
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0400
(850) 245-0480

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Introduction

Did you know that many schools in Florida are using gardens as a tool for hands-on, student-centered learning? Research has shown that children who participate in garden based nutrition interventions increase their servings of fruit and vegetables and that teachers perceive gardens to be very effective at enhancing academic performance, physical activity, language arts, and healthful eating habits.

Benefits of School Gardens

• Gardens provide sensory stimulation of smells, textures, colors and sounds.
• Gardening is a healthy outdoor activity for all youth.
• Children are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables they grow and improve their attitude toward fruits and vegetables.
• Children can improve their self-esteem and attitudes toward school through gardening projects.
• Children can learn environmental stewardship and scientific principles.
• Community gardens foster group cohesion and improve interpersonal relationships.
• Gardening projects help foster family relationships and increase parental involvement.

For Educators

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