My Garden Grows
Cultivating Creativity, Nature, Emotional Expression, and STEAM
Fusing Science, Art, SEL, and STEAM Principles Inspired by The Tiny Seed
Program Length: 60 minutes
Audience: Schools, Museums, Community Centers, Wellness Programs, and Art Therapy Groups
Cost per classroom: $425 (includes all materials)
Travel Fee: An additional fee applies for locations beyond a 30-mile radius.
Program Can Serve: 25 participants
Program Overview
This immersive program blends scientific inquiry, creative expression, social-emotional learning (SEL), and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics) to explore the essentials of plant growth and the wonders of nature. Participants will be inspired by Eric Carle’s The Tiny Seed to examine what a seed needs—soil, sun, water, and air—and to identify the critical parts of a plant: stem, roots, leaves, and flower. They will investigate how plants adapt to diverse habitats such as deserts, oceans, and mountains. By analyzing both geometric and organic shapes found in nature, discussing how elements overlap, and exploring how weather and time-of-day alter sky color, students will build a layered understanding of the natural world. Integrating SEL, participants will use color to express emotions and tell personal stories. This comprehensive program culminates in the creation of a “My Garden Grows” composition using collage and painting techniques.
Program Objectives
Participants will:
Explore Plant Science:
Understand what a seed needs to grow: soil, sun, water, and air.
Identify and discuss key plant parts: stem, roots, leaves, and flower.
Examine plant adaptations across different habitats (desert, ocean, mountain).
Analyze Natural Forms:
Investigate geometric and organic shapes, discussing overlapping forms and spatial relationships.
Consider how weather and time-of-day influence sky color and overall ambiance in natural settings.
Express Creativity through Art:
Combine collage and painting techniques to create a unique “My Garden Grows” composition.
Utilize color intentionally to represent emotions and tell a personal story, integrating SEL into the creative process.
Integrate STEAM Disciplines:
Science: Deepen understanding of plant biology and ecological adaptations.
Technology: Use digital resources, interactive visuals, or video excerpts from The Tiny Seed to enhance observational skills.
Engineering: Engage in design thinking and problem-solving when constructing layered art compositions.
Art: Explore various artistic techniques to transform observations into creative expressions.
Mathematics: Analyze patterns, shapes, and spatial relationships in nature to inform artistic design.
Logistics & Materials
All necessary materials are provided, including:
Art supplies such as paints, collage materials, canvases or sturdy paper, and brushes
Visual aids and excerpts from The Tiny Seed to prompt observation and discussion
Educational resources on plant biology, plant parts, growth essentials, and habitat adaptations
SEL prompts and color guides that connect specific hues to emotions
STEAM-related digital resources and interactive tools (optional)
A venue equipped with tables and open space for interactive, hands-on art creation
Booking & Contact Information
To schedule a session or inquire about further details, please contact:
Meredith Arcari Luciano
Bonus Available
Participants will receive a downloadable guide featuring:
Step-by-step techniques for blending collage and painting
SEL prompts that explore the emotional significance of color and storytelling
Detailed information on plant growth requirements, plant parts, and adaptations across various habitats
STEAM insights linking scientific observations with artistic creation and mathematical patterns
Discussion guides on the interplay between geometric and organic shapes and the effects of weather and time-of-day on natural landscapes
This bonus resource is designed to encourage ongoing creative exploration, deepen observational skills, and foster a lasting connection with both nature and personal emotional growth while embracing the full spectrum of STEAM learning.
