Project Overview

At The Learning Habitat, a specialized school for students with a range of diagnoses and disabilities, we aim to create a therapeutic outdoor garden that serves as both an educational and sensory space. Our "Pollinator Paradise" garden will be designed to support local pollinators like bees and butterflies, while also providing an inclusive, hands-on environment for students to engage with nature. The garden will feature a variety of native plants, trees, and flowers that are not only beneficial to pollinators but also provide sensory experiences for students with different abilities. In addition, we will incorporate bird baths, birdhouses, stepping stones, and other accessible features to ensure that the garden can be enjoyed by all students, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities.

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Type of Project

This is an inclusive environmental beautification and sustainability project that focuses on providing a sensory, educational space for students while enhancing local biodiversity. The garden will be designed with special attention to accessibility and sensory needs, ensuring that all students—whether they have mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, or learning disabilities—can engage with and enjoy the space. Key features will include:

• Native plants that attract pollinators and provide a sensory-rich experience (textures, colors, and smells).

• Bird baths and birdhouses that encourage interaction with wildlife.

• Stepping stones and sensory pathways to make the garden accessible for all students.

• Educational signage that is visually engaging and inclusive of all learning styles, helping students learn about the importance of pollinators.

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Key Learnings Intended

Through the "Pollinator Paradise" garden, students will gain a deeper understanding of the critical role pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, play in local ecosystems. By observing these creatures in their natural habitat, students will learn about the interconnectedness of nature and the importance of pollinators in sustaining biodiversity. The garden will also provide a sensory-rich environment where students can engage with various textures, colors, and sounds, fostering hands-on learning. This experience will help them develop an appreciation for the natural world while teaching them key principles of sustainability, such as caring for the environment and supporting local ecosystems.

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Impact on Students

The hands-on nature of the garden project will significantly increase student engagement by providing an interactive and dynamic learning environment that supports a variety of learning styles and sensory needs. By actively participating in gardening activities, students will develop new skills while engaging with the natural world in a meaningful way. Research shows that gardening has benefits both mentally and physically for students, especially those with learning disabilities and other needs.4 In addition to academic learning, working in the garden will foster collaboration, teamwork, and social interaction, helping students build important social skills. The garden will also offer therapeutic benefits, supporting emotional well-being, self-regulation, and reducing anxiety, creating a calming space where students can connect with nature and experience a sense of accomplishment.

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Impact on the School/Organization

The garden will enhance the overall school environment by providing a calming, aesthetically pleasing outdoor space that can be used for a variety of purposes, including outdoor lessons, sensory breaks, and community gatherings. This will enrich the atmosphere of the school, offering a peaceful and engaging setting for both students and staff. Additionally, the project will foster greater community involvement by creating opportunities for local volunteers to help maintain the garden and participate in educational events. This collaboration will strengthen the school’s connection to the surrounding community, building support for the school’s mission and encouraging a shared commitment to environmental stewardship and education.​​​​​​​​​​