Grass Roots Nursery Group
Grass Roots Private Day Nursery HX6 1HB Tel: 01422836280 grassrootsdaynursery@gmail.com
Grass Roots Preschool HX6 1DY Tel: 01422417659 grassroots.newroad@gmail.com
Our Allotment
Exploring the Allotment – A Hands-On Learning Experience
At our nursery, we believe in fostering a deep connection between children and the natural world. To bring this vision to life, we have taken on an allotment on Fore Lane, offering small-group visits where children can engage in meaningful, hands-on experiences. These visits provide an exciting opportunity for children to see where their food comes from, participate in the upkeep of the allotment, and take part in the entire growing cycle—from planting seeds to harvesting fresh produce.
Children actively contribute to maintaining the space, taking part in digging, carrying, lifting, and watering, all of which help to develop their shoulder and core muscles—essential foundations for early writing skills. Through these activities, they build physical strength while learning about the responsibilities of caring for plants. They discover what plants need to grow, how to nurture them, and how seasonal changes affect growth, fostering a deeper understanding of the living environment.
Patience is a key lesson learned in the allotment, as children observe plants growing and wait for the produce to ripen, teaching them to appreciate the rhythms of nature. As they engage with the allotment, children naturally use all their senses, feeling the texture of soil, seeds, flowers, and petals, smelling the rich scents of herbs and blossoms, seeing the vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables, and tasting the fresh produce they have helped grow.
This immersive environment also supports early mathematical skills, as children count seeds, petals, and leaves, describe colors and shapes, and observe growth patterns. Their communication and language development is enriched through discussions about what needs to be done, conversations with peers and practitioners, and exposure to new vocabulary in a real-world context.
Beyond academic and physical development, the allotment promotes social skills, as children learn to listen, follow instructions, take turns, and work as a team. Whether collaborating to water plants or sharing their excitement over a new sprout, these interactions help build confidence and cooperation.
Through these experiences, children gain a sense of ownership and achievement, developing an appreciation for nature, nutrition, and sustainability that will stay with them for years to come.
