Create a Container for Learning
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With the lack of four walls to provide the container for the class, the need for a different form of structure becomes even more important. Book ending every class—no matter the age level or size—with a simple and consistent beginning and ending ritual, helps students transition and know what to expect as they enter the garden.

Ideas for beginnings:

All of these activities are intended to be done with students at the entrance to the garden, prior to entering.

• Singing bowl: have children close their eyes and focus their attention on the sound of the singing bowl (or bell) and raise their hand and open their eyes when they no longer hear the sound.

• Mindful breathing: have children walk into the garden silently, breathing normally but counting their breaths as they walk in.

• Mindful listening: have children count bird calls/ambient sounds as they walk silently into the garden

• Recite a poem/verse: find a short and simple poem of your choosing and recite this poem each time before entering the garden

• Silent entry: Meet at the entrance to the garden, line up and enter in silence

 

Ideas for endings:

• Circle up and have students share what they did, or something they learned or found interesting to the rest of the class

• Any of the 'beginning' rituals can also be applied to closing the class and exiting the garden.