“Teaching children about the natural world should be treated as one of the most important events in their lives.” – Thomas Berry
At the Jerusalem Botanical Gardens, we believe that in order to inspire today's children to become future custodians of our environment, we must share the magic of nature with them at a young age. "Gardens in Kindergartens" offers Jerusalem preschool children of all sectors (Jewish, Arab and Ultra Orthodox) the opportunity to connect with nature. For many of these children, this is their first hands on experience with the natural world. By planting sustainable gardens in kindergartens across Jerusalem, with the help of the preschool children, teachers and volunteers, we have sparked the love of nature in the next generation.
Gardens are planted at students’ eye level, giving them the opportunity to touch, plant, get dirty and feel the deep satisfaction of seeing a sprout and then a vegetable pop out of the seed that they planted with their own little hands. Parents say their children are happily eating produce for the first time. Teachers are saying the children or more relaxed and focused during class after spending time in the garden. The children themselves have expressed a deep satisfaction and ecstatic joy from growing their own food.
Last year, we successfully planted 32 sustainable gardens in 32 different preschools throughout Jerusalem. This year, we intend to maintain those and plant another 30 gardens in 30 more schools around the capital city.
Our generous partner, the Jerusalem Municipality, has offered to match any funds that we raise!! That means every dollar you donate will be equivalent to $2. Please help us make a difference to the city of Jerusalem by supporting this special program.
