Laurie’s Scholarship Story
At Ithaca Children’s Garden, our vision is that every child has the basic human right to play, learn, and grow outdoors and develop a life-long relationship with the living world. One of the ways we aim to bring the joy of outdoor adventures and nature exploration is with our world-class educational programs. We recognize, however, that this is not always an affordable option for families. That’s why we have the Scholarship Fund. The Scholarship Fund breaks down financial barriers to help more children experience the growth and joy of outdoor learning in ICG’s programs.
Dive into the story of how ICG’s scholarship helped to provide a shy, sensitive child the opportunity to become a confident explorer of the natural world. Then, read below how you can be part of this transformative journey, too.
How has ICG’s scholarship impacted your family?
ICG’s scholarship program made it possible for our kid to attend Playful Nature, and it made us feel like we could afford something really special that otherwise would’ve seemed exclusive to folks with more money. When you’re a parent, no matter your financial situation, you always want the best for your kid. Knowing you can get something of such quality and actually afford it is just so great.
What does your child get out of participating in ICG’s program?
The program is really lovely because she is shy and sensitive and Kelsey and Jason and everyone in the program are all so great with her and helped her feel really comfortable. She’s exploring more and has positive relationships with other adults she feels safe with. And, of course, being outside is awesome. If I have to work, I’m not like, “Oh, let me go outside with you for 3 hours,” so it’s nice to know they’re outside a LOT. We treasure that very much.
Do you see ICG translating to other areas of your child’s life? If so, how?
Having consistency with kids she sees every week is really lovely, and the love of nature, which we already are instilling in her at home, the way that Kelsey and Jason talk about it, the way the program tells them to take care of the animals; the way they’re learning stuff about nature is awesome. The fact that they know the word bioswale is already impressive. There are just things that the program is able to do to help her in a way that is consistent. For example, they see she needs to learn how to put on her own shoes better, so they are supporting her to do that, and she is getting better at doing that. They are helping her be more independent; helping her connect with kids better and form more friendships and the love of nature and learning about nature. Those are all things that hopefully she’ll continue for the rest of her life as she recalls her childhood of running around and looking at lizards and finding salamanders and jumping in mud.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
The most special thing for us has been being the parents of a child who is sensitive and shy and doesn’t take easily to other people, to be in the program with the care and the love and the attention to the details of their needs is really really special. The fact that it is affordable is extremely special because you just can’t get that kind of care for this price anywhere. And the fact that they’re outside, you know everything you read is that being outside many hours a day is the best thing you can do for your child – for their eyesight, their physical health, their development overall… I grew up in cities, and it takes a while for me to get comfortable; I have to give myself a moment to adjust to my surroundings if I’m outside in nature.
But to be a kid who’s comfortable jumping in mud and doesn’t think of it… grab something green from the garden and eat it. That’s a gift we’re giving the kid. To be comfortable in the outdoors without having to try is really special.
Laurie’s story is a reminder of the impact Ithaca Children’s Garden’s Scholarship Fund can have on a child’s life, transforming them from shy observers to confident explorers of the natural world in ICG’s educational programs. As we strive to make these invaluable outdoor experiences accessible to every child, your support becomes crucial. Join us in nurturing the next generation of nature lovers by donating to ICG’s Scholarship Fund today. Your contribution will ensure that over 100 families in Tompkins County in 2024 can enjoy the wonders of outdoor learning, regardless of financial constraints. Together, let’s open the door to endless discoveries and joyous adventures in nature!