Written by Alicia Jordan, Boots on the Farm Consulting
Today reminded me why I do this work.
I spent time with a classroom full of bright, curious four year olds, and their energy alone could grow a whole garden. From the moment I stepped outside with them, they were ready. Hands in the soil, eyes wide open, and questions coming one after another.
I helped them plant a raised bed garden, turning a simple space into something full of life and possibility. They didn’t just plant seeds, they started to understand what it means to care for something. We talked about sunlight, water, and what plants need to grow, and I could see the connection happening right in front of me.
What made it even more special is how close this school is to home. Just ten minutes away, but the impact feels so much bigger. This is what community looks like to me. Being able to pour into children right here means I am planting more than vegetables. I am planting confidence, curiosity, and a love for the land.
Each child left with a bag to keep the experience going. Inside were items and books to help them stay connected to what they learned. Moments like that matter because learning doesn’t stop when the day ends.
With April being National Garden Month, there is no better time to get children outside, let them explore, and show them where food really comes from. Not a store, but the ground, through care, patience, and purpose.
Days like today remind me this is bigger than a program. This is about building something that lasts and showing the next generation that they are capable of growing something of their own.
And today, they did just that.
