Creativity and collaboration were front and centre at a recent event that brought Brock University and Niagara Parks together with the shared goal of delighting and inspiring the next generation of nature lovers.

Thanks to a renewed Memorandum of Understanding built on a longstanding history of collaboration, Niagara Parks hosted experts from the Faculty of Education for a workshop to discuss its new Children’s Garden, a collaborative project with the Niagara Parks Foundation that is currently in development.

“We are honoured to be invited to share our perspectives with Niagara Parks as they envision a breathtaking and enrichening outdoor educational space. This collaboration is a meaningful opportunity for our faculty and students to make community connections with lasting impact,” said Mary-Louise Vanderlee, Dean, Faculty of Education.

Part of Niagara Park’s larger Botanical Gardens, the multi-sensory green space will be inspired by the natural landscape and elements of the Niagara Region.

Assistant Professor of Educational Studies Anjali Khirwadkar (upper left) said the group discussed themes of place-based learning and how children can develop environmental sensitivity and nurtures values like stewardship, curiosity and respect.

Sue-Ann Ramsden, Vice-Chair of the Niagara Parks Foundation, said the Children’s Garden at Niagara Parks will be a magical place designed for children and their families.

“The two-acre garden will be a leader in place-based education year-round, offering guests the opportunity to experience the wonders of the Niagara River corridor through the eyes of a child. We aim to empower children to live and grow in harmony with nature, inspiring a lifelong love of the outdoors. The Niagara Parks Foundation is pleased to collaborate with Niagara Parks on this important endeavour,” she said.

Heather Gorman, Manager of Education and Public Programming with Niagara Parks, led the discussion at the School of Horticulture on Feb. 26 as part of a wider series of educational workshops with local school boards.

The group discussed curriculum connections, inclusion and age-appropriate engagement.

For Jaime Barratt, an Assistant Professor in Brock’s Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (BECE) program who specializes in children’s movement and well-being, the workshop presented a valuable opportunity to contribute to the shaping and design of the Children’s Garden.

“We were thrilled to share our insights and perspectives with Niagara Parks and contribute our efforts to the creation of facilities that effectively cater to the needs and preferences of children and families in the community,” she said.

Connections to local history and natural heritage were central to discussions, as well as the pivotal role accessibility will play for everyone who visits the garden, an element Assistant Professor of Educational Studies Shannon Welbourn said will be key to shaping an engaging and inclusive garden experience.

“Participating in the Niagara Parks workshop offered a meaningful experience, allowing collaboration with colleagues and stakeholders,” she said. “It was inspiring to see how this project is being designed to create a welcoming and enriching space, and I look forward to further collaborations as the project progresses.”