Jr. Master Gardener Program Connects Kids to Nature

Kids love dirt, bugs, pretty plants and digging holes. Why not channel their energy and interests by signing them up for the Jr. Master Gardener program? What kid wouldn’t enjoy discovering the wonderful world of worms or making greeting cards that you can actually plant in the ground!

There is compelling evidence that children today have lost touch with our natural environment. Richard Louv, in his ground-breaking book, Last Child in the Woods, identified this problem as nature-deficit disorder. We know that when children connect with nature, they are healthier and happier. Research links physical, mental and spiritual health directly to positive experiences with nature.

The mission of the Jr. Master Gardener Program is “to grow good kids by igniting a passion for learning, success and service through a unique gardening education.” The curriculum is fun, creative and hands-on. Kids will learn how to identify plants, insects and diseases. They’ll discover the joys of composting and working with beneficial critters to make the soil healthier for plants. They will enjoy growing plants from seeds and eating the fruits of their labors. Kids will also understand how to prepare healthy snacks and the importance of vegetables, fruits and nuts in the daily diet. Your child will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain an appreciation for our natural environment and cultivate a love of gardening that may perhaps lead to a career opportunity or life-long hobby.

The UGA Cooperative Extension in Fayette County works with local master gardeners to coordinate the Jr. Master Gardener Program for boys and girls in grades 3-5. The group will meet in Fayetteville every other Tuesday, starting October 19 through March 29, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. and will be limited to 20 participants on a first come-first served basis.

There is a $25 registration fee which includes handbook and materials. Registrations are being accepted now through September 30. For more information or a registration form, contact the Fayette County Extension Service at (770) 305-5412 or go to www.ugaextension.com/fayette/mg/jmg.html

Not sure if your child will be interested in the program? Well, you have a chance to try it out for one session! Our Fayette County 4-H is hosting a one day “sneak-peek” at the Jr. Master Gardener Program on Saturday, September 11 from 10:00 – 3:00. The event will be held at the Kiwanis Center, 936 Redwine Rd. in Fayetteville. The cost is $5 per person and everyone is asked to bring a sack lunch. Advance registration is required.

So if you want to help grow good kids and good citizens, get your child involved in the Jr. Master Gardener Program this year.