At Graystone CELA, we believe in providing children with rich, hands-on experiences that connect them to the world around them. One of the most meaningful ways we do this is through our gardening program, where children in all of our programs actively participate in growing, nurturing, and learning from plants all year long.
Each week, every child takes part in gardening activities, whether it’s planting seeds, watering herbs, checking on vegetables, or observing changes in the garden. 
This program takes place year-round, beginning indoors in our piazza, where children care for seedlings, herbs, and vegetables in a light-filled, shared community space using our hydroponics. As the seasons change, the plants are transferred outdoors to our garden boxes, where the children continue to care for them and witness their growth in a new environment.
Our harvest doesn’t just stay in the garden, it makes its way into our kitchen, too. Children help pick fresh herbs and vegetables that are then incorporated into the snacks and meals we serve. Whether it’s basil in a pasta dish, mint in a refreshing cup of water, or tomatoes added to a salad, the children love seeing how their work in the garden becomes a nourishing part of their day.
Through this ongoing relationship with the garden, children develop a deeper understanding of nature, sustainability, and responsibility. They learn that growth takes time, care, and patience, and they take pride in being part of every step of the process.
An exciting part of our gardening program is the child-created compost bin, which the children use to turn food scraps and garden waste into rich, nourishing soil. This full-circle approach helps children see how everything in nature is connected and fosters early environmental awareness.
Gardening is about so much more than plants. It offers opportunities for:
- Sensory exploration – feeling soil, smelling herbs, tasting vegetables
- Scientific thinking – asking questions, making observations, and noticing patterns
- Collaboration – working together to care for a shared space
- Emotional growth – practicing patience, empathy, and pride in their contributions
We’re proud of the way our gardening program nurtures not only plants—but also curiosity, care, and community. It’s one of the many ways we help children build meaningful connections to the environment and to each other.
Next time you’re at the centre, be sure to visit the garden—you might be surprised by what’s growing!