Introducing children to herbalism can have numerous benefits:
Promotes Emotional Well-being: Certain herbs, such as chamomile and lemon balm, are known for their calming properties and can help children manage stress and anxiety. Nationwide Children's Hospital
Enhances Cognitive Function: Engaging with plants and nature has been shown to improve attention and memory in children. PMC
Encourages Healthy Habits: Learning about herbs can inspire children to make healthier lifestyle choices, including better nutrition and self-care practices.
Fosters a Connection to Nature: Herbalism activities help children develop a deeper appreciation and respect for the natural world.
While herbalism offers many benefits, it's essential to approach it with care:
Start with Gentle Herbs: Begin with herbs known for their safety and mild effects, such as chamomile, peppermint, and lemon balm. Herbal Academy
Proper Dosage is Crucial: Children's bodies are more sensitive, so it's important to adjust dosages accordingly. Guidelines like Young’s Rule can help determine appropriate amounts based on age. Herbal Academy
Conduct a Patch Test: Before using a new herb, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to the skin to check for any allergic reactions.
Consult Healthcare Providers: Always inform your child's healthcare provider about any herbal remedies being used to ensure there are no contraindications with other medications.
Our workshops incorporate a variety of hands-on activities to make herbalism fun and educational:
Herb Identification: Teach children to identify common herbs through sensory exploration.
Crafting with Herbs: Engage in activities like making herbal sachets, infusions, and simple salves.
Gardening Projects: Allow children to plant and care for their own herb gardens, fostering responsibility and connection to nature.
Storytelling and Education: Share stories and information about the history and uses of different herbs.
We invite families to explore the world of herbalism with us. Our Herbalism workshops are designed to be informative, engaging, and, most importantly, safe. Together, we can nurture the next generation's connection to nature and wellness.
Cognitive & Emotional Benefits
Improved Attention & Memory: Exposure to green spaces has been linked to enhanced cognitive functions. A study involving nearly 2,600 children in Barcelona found that increased exposure to green spaces was associated with better working memory and reduced inattentiveness TIME.
Stress Reduction & Mood Enhancement: Nature exposure helps reduce stress and anxiety, boost mood, and improve emotional resilience. These benefits are particularly evident in children and adolescents American Psychological Association.
Enhanced Social Skills: Outdoor activities promote social interaction and cooperation, fostering empathy and communication skills among children Children & Nature Network.
Long-Term Well-Being
Lower Risk of Mental Health Disorders: Living near green spaces can reduce the risk of depression by around 20%, independent of socio-economic status. Even small green areas can improve mental well-being for hours The Guardian.
Increased Resilience: Nature-based interventions have shown to enhance personal and social development, helping children build resilience and cope with adversity cbey.yale.edu.
Connection to Nature
Stronger Nature Connection, Greater Benefits: Individuals with a stronger connection to nature experience lower levels of stress and anxiety. This connection enhances the mental health benefits gained from nature exposure Nature.
Declining Nature Engagement: Research indicates a significant decline in human connection to nature over the past 200 years, emphasizing the importance of reintroducing nature experiences in children's lives The Guardian.
https://lifestyleforreallife.com
At Magnolia The Nature Club, we love bringing creativity and nature together! Our workshops use natural art materials sourced from the outdoors and sustainable supplies, allowing children and families to explore textures, colors, and patterns inspired by the world around them.
Materials may include:
Twigs, pinecones, and seeds
Pressed flowers and leaves
Clay, sand, and natural pigments
Herbs and dried botanicals
Using natural materials encourages mindfulness, imagination, and hands-on learning, while fostering a deeper connection to the environment. Every project is an opportunity to create beautiful, eco-friendly art with your own two hands.
At Magnolia The Nature Club, we believe that healthy eating and strong communities go hand in hand. Our holistic nutrition approach focuses on whole, natural foods, mindful eating, and family-friendly practices that nourish both body and mind—while also supporting local farmers and community gardens.
Through our programs, children and families learn to:
Connect with real, wholesome foods – fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and herbs
Understand where their food comes from – visiting local farms, exploring seasonal produce, and engaging in community gardens
Build healthy, lifelong habits – balanced meals, mindful portions, and curiosity about flavors
Support mental, emotional, and environmental well-being – research shows a strong link between nutrition, mood, and focus (Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health)
Celebrate community and sustainability – connecting with local growers, learning the value of small farms, and fostering stewardship of the land
Our workshops make nutrition hands-on, fun, and educational, encouraging children to taste, explore, and create with wholesome ingredients. By combining learning about healthy foods with support for local growers and community gardens, Magnolia inspires families to embrace nourishment, sustainability, and a deep connection to nature.
Magnolia The Nature Club is proud to share a selection of nature-inspired learning resources available at Richland Library. Families can explore books, guides, and activity kits that encourage children to connect with the outdoors, spark creativity, and learn through hands-on experiences.
From garden guides and herbal craft books to mindfulness and journaling resources, these materials are perfect for homeschoolers, families, and educators looking to bring more of nature’s lessons into everyday learning.
Check out the library’s collection and discover ways to grow curiosity, creativity, and a love for the natural world at home!
Gardening is about more than just growing plants, it’s about curiosity, creativity, stewardship, and connection. Spending time in the garden has countless benefits for children and adults, from nurturing mental well-being to encouraging hands-on learning.
Connect with Nature: Gardening helps kids and adults experience the wonders of the natural world, fostering a sense of care and respect for the environment.
Boost Mental Health: Tending to plants can reduce stress, increase mindfulness, and create moments of calm and focus.
Learn Through Play: From planting seeds to harvesting fresh produce, gardening teaches science, patience, and problem-solving.
Encourage Healthy Eating: Growing fruits, vegetables, and herbs inspires children to explore new flavors and make nutritious food choices.
Build Community: Sharing garden experiences brings families together and creates a sense of belonging and teamwork.
Ben Arnold , 100 South Holly Street
Ensor Forest, 4520 Monticello Road (Garden and Greenhouse)
Granby Park, 100 Catawba Street
Hampton Park, 1117 Brandon Avenue
Hyatt Park, 950 Jackson Avenue
Lorick Park, 1600 Lorick Ave
Lyon St. Community, 1207 McDuffie Street
Martin Luther King Jr. Park, 2300 Greene Street
Melrose Park, 1500 Fairview Drive
NOMA (North Main), Earlewood Park, 2700 River Drive
Owens Field Park, 1351 Jim Hamilton Blvd.
Pacific Park, 200 Wayne Street
Pinehurst Park, 2300 Pinehurst Road
Sims Park, 3500 Duncan Street
St. Anna’s Park, 1310 Lyon Street
Woodland Park, 6500 Olde Knight Parkway
https://parksandrec.columbiasc.gov/community-gardens