While it is true that our children are the future stewards of this earth, their relationship to the land starts in the home. I believe our biggest impact as caregivers lies in the day to day habits we exhibit over time, conscious or otherwise. Our children will inherit the very attitudes we hold toward the natural world. Their eyes are always on us.
Elders are growing ever less present to pass down the family's remedies and hold space for these sacred exchanges. My classes were created out of a desire to hold that space, to awaken children's curiosity and to engage their inner healers. It is more imperative than ever to provide our children with a framework from which they can develop a deep connection to the natural world, and through such, gain a sense of personal authority to which they can carry into adulthood.
Students receive a foundational, step by step outline of what it looks like to slowly establish a home apothecary. Together we formulate age appropriate medicines following the same SOPs I adhere to when creating products for purchase. This provides an authentic immersion into both the magical and practical world of herbal crafting.
My curriculum is adapted according to the age, goals and interests of my cohort. There is a greater emphasis placed on cognitive lessons, note taking and group discussions with older children (ages 9-15). I take a more simplified, sensory-driven, project oriented approach with younger ones (ages 5-8).
Every ingredient brought into the classroom is traceable to its source. When unable to forage myself I support small, regional herb farms with transparent, regenerative practices. I work exclusively with whole plant matter and do not use essential oils. Remedies are centered solely around safe allies, some of which include chamomile, peppermint, plantain, catnip, lavender, calendula and lemon balm. I am happy to dive deeper into my sourcing practices regarding other staple items used in the classroom upon request.
