To shape the mind and emotions, young learners are fond to share experiences, values and understanding through actions they learn. One of the ways to teach the young generation is through giving them activities that they will be treasured through the course of their lifetime. There was a study that children who are involved in gardening and farming tend to eat more fruits and vegetables. It was also discovered that children who are willing to taste and cook a greater variety of fruits and vegetables can demonstrate improved behavior wherever they go.

              Hence, all schools have encouraged their students and parents to plant vegetables at their own garden. As they said, it will not only benefit the children regarding sustainability but will embed in their consciousness the realization of how important these vegetables, their nutrients and vitamins and the effect of healthy living are. 

          Consequently, most of the children and teachers who are fond of posting their pictures on social media has also begun promoting home gardening and it can become successful because even other people who are not involved in the program would be encouraged to plant vegetables.

          Among the strategies utilized by the school in promoting home gardening are a hands-on support to the students by giving them some tips on how to make their garden productive. “Gulayan sa Tahanan” is a multi-beneficial program even in the new normal.  It is a community-wide benefit for all, as it will not only touch on the physical attributes but also awaken the mental and psychological attributes of the children amid the COVID-19 situation.

By: Marilyn S. Panganiban | Teacher I | Cataning Elementary School | Balanga City, Bataan