Planting trees with children

Denise teaches kids about tree planting

Yesterday I volunteered to work at the Clear Creek Field Trip for schoolchildren. At 10 AM, a big yellow school bus dropped off about 60 happily chattering fourth graders who quickly formed up in lines behind their teachers. There were four groups of about 15 each, and there were four stations for them to rotate through: fish release; tree planting, water quality; and stream bugs.

I volunteered to work with the tree-planting group. An area covered with thick canary grass had been cleared and tilled for the kids to plant trees in. Denise, our leader, asked the kids what trees do for us and what trees need. Then she patiently explained to the children how to plant a tree.

As soon as they were given the go-ahead, the kids rushed to grab a shovel and plant their tree. My job was to help each pair as they dug their hole, filled it with dirt, covered it with a square of plastic, and put mulch on the plastic. Lastly, they got to name their tree and write the name on a pink ribbon.

What fun! Children are so excited to be outdoors and learn about nature. I'm sure this learning experience will stay with them a long time. I thoroughly enjoyed being with the kids and the other volunteers. What a great way to help children learn how to protect our environment and care for the earth.