GROWING TOGETHER … Sprouting Explorers participants, along with Wendy Gericke, in the Community Garden after a morning of reading, crafts, and garden adventures.
By: Sienna Gill
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Archbold Community Garden was filled with sunshine, curiosity, and the sound of stories on Thursday morning as children gathered for the Sprouting Explorers program—a program that is aimed at getting local kids outdoors, engaged in learning, and excited about reading.
The program has continued to grow in popularity, and it draws children from all over the Archbold area for hands-on fun and discovery.
The guest reader was Wendy Gericke, Executive Director of the Archbold Area Chamber of Commerce, who got to join in the fun by reading to a lively group of local children amidst the tranquility of the community garden.
Despite the summer heat, energetic and curious young explorers gathered in impressive numbers, eager to learn. Their presence surely created a lively atmosphere amidst the dreadful July heat.
Not only did Wendy’s visit bring a spark of excitement to the program, but it also highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to engaging with the next generation of the community in meaningful ways.
“Even with the heat, the turnout was fantastic,” Wendy shared in a post. “Kids were asking great questions, and everyone was just genuinely enjoying themselves. I’m grateful to be a part of it—and I can’t wait to come back!”
Reading played a big part in the event; however, the day’s activities went beyond books. Kids explored a mystery fruit—cantaloupe—learned about jicama, searched for a scarecrow tucked among the garden beds, and created fun crafts with clay.
All elements of the program were part of a hands-on curriculum designed to connect young minds with nature and creativity. By combining gardening, science, art, and storytelling, the program promotes a love for learning beyond the classroom.
Each activity encourages the children to ask questions, make observations, and take pride in what they create.
Abby Pennington of the Archbold Community Garden expressed her gratitude, writing, “Thank you Wendy from the Archbold Chamber for being our guest reader this morning at Sprouting Explorers! Such a fun morning…”
Programs such as Sprouting Explorers truly showcase the value of community collaboration, especially in our small communities where collaboration among community members is what keeps us going.
With help from local volunteers, educators, and organizations like the Archbold Chamber of Commerce, the garden has become more than just a place to grow plants—it’s a space for the kids to grow as well.
The Chamber echoed this sentiment in yet another post: “Such a cool spot where kids can craft, grow, learn—and just be kids. Big thanks to everyone who helps keep this place blooming.”
As summer continues on, the garden’s schedule is packed with more fun days to come. The organizers hope that the program will keep growing and offering chances for kids to be curious and connected with the world around them.