Photo Description: Children planting flowers in a community garden on a bright, sunny day.
assistant
Gardening is a great way to relieve stress, get some light exercise, enjoy nature.

STEP 1: Physical Benefits of Gardening
"Discuss physical benefits: exercise, improved motor skills, and exposure to fresh air and sunlight. Ask the class if they have ever gardened and how it made them feel physically."

STEP 2: Mental and Emotional Benefits of Gardening
"Talk about mental benefits: stress reductionand mood enhancement. Gardening can also provide a sense of accomplishment. Ask the class about their experiences with gardening or spending time in nature."

STEP 3: Importance of Community and Teamwork
"Highlight the importance of community and teamwork in gardening. Working together can build social skills, teamwork, and a sense of belonging. Ask the class how they feel when working on a group project."

STEP 4: Environmental Benefits of Gardening
"Discuss environmental benefits: planting flowers helps pollinators like bees, improves air quality, and beautifies the area. Ask the class how they think gardening helps the environment."

STEP 5: Sun Safety While Gardening
"Cover sun safety: wearing hats, sunscreen, and staying hydrated. Ask the class what they do to stay safe in the sun."

STEP 6: Encouraging Healthy Habits
"Talk about how gardening can encourage healthy habits, such as growing and eating fresh vegetables. Ask the class if they have ever grown their own food or would like to."

STEP 7: Interactive Discussion
"Ask the students if there is anything else in this photo they could discuss as it relates to health literacy. Possible topics: the benefits of spending time outdoors, learning patience and responsibility, and the joy of seeing plants grow."