In a tucked away corner of the Omidyar K – 1 Neighborhood, a flourishing garden serves as both classroom and playground for Punahou kindergartners. Here, under the guidance of Garden Resource Teacher Eliza Leineweber ’92 Lathrop, students explore the natural world through observation and hands-on work.
The lesson begins with kilo – the Hawaiian practice of careful observation. Students pause to notice trees, soil, grass and the sky, learning to see the garden as a living system filled with connections. They gather on benches in the outdoor classroom as the students listen to Mr. Carey’s Garden, a story about patience, growth and care, before moving into three garden stations. At “Mulch Mountain”, they use shovels to scoop mulch into buckets which will be used to protect and nourish the soil. At the compost station, they sift the compost through a screen box, watching fine compost fall into a bin that is returned to the garden beds. With tools from the bug exploration table, kindergartners use magnifying glasses and containers to study insects up close, exploring the spots where they live.
With the freedom to choose among the stations, students become both caretakers and explorers. Some find satisfaction in hauling mulch, others sift compost over and over, and many are captivated by the discovery of insects. The children see firsthand how small actions support a healthier planet. Through observation and hands-on care, they are not only cultivating a garden but also habits of stewardship and respect for the natural world that will grow with them for years to come.
