Chungcheongnam-do, South Korea – The Chungcheongnam-do Children's Character Education Center is fostering a deeper connection between parents, children, and the natural world through its recently concluded and highly successful forest garden program, "A Garden Dreaming of Happiness." Held from April 3rd to April 24th, 2025, the initiative targeted guardians across Chungcheongnam-do, aiming to highlight the profound impact of nature-based activities on character development and family well-being.

Under the leadership of Director Han Yu-mi, the program was thoughtfully designed to immerse parents in hands-on gardening experiences. Participants engaged in planting seeds and seedlings in the center's nature play area, actively cultivating their own small plots. This direct interaction with the soil and plant life provided a tangible understanding of the natural world's cycles and rhythms. Beyond the practical aspects of gardening, the program emphasized the intrinsic link between nature and character education. By working collaboratively and nurturing living things, guardians experienced firsthand the lessons in patience, responsibility, and the interconnectedness of life that nature so readily offers.

A key objective of "A Garden Dreaming of Happiness" was to empower parents to cultivate healthy eating habits in their children. The program underscored how involving children in the process of growing food, even on a small scale, can significantly increase their appreciation for fresh produce and encourage more nutritious dietary choices. This shared experience in the garden also served as a powerful tool for strengthening the bond between parents and their children, fostering empathy and creating positive shared memories.

Feedback from participating guardians has been overwhelmingly positive. One attendee eloquently described the experience: "It was enjoyable and fascinating to have the opportunity to plant flowers that I usually only saw on the roadside. I could feel that spring had arrived. Pulling weeds, digging soil, sowing seeds, and watering were healing. I felt the joy of cooperation and leave feeling healed by the beauty of the wind, sunlight, and flowers. It was a very healing day for me, coming out and gardening while raising children." This sentiment resonates with a growing body of research that underscores the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature, reducing stress levels and enhancing overall psychological well-being.

The benefits of nature-based learning extend far beyond stress reduction. Studies have shown that children who engage with nature exhibit improved cognitive skills, enhanced creativity, and greater problem-solving abilities. The sensory-rich environment of a garden stimulates curiosity and provides endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Furthermore, interacting with the natural world fosters a sense of environmental stewardship and a lifelong appreciation for biodiversity.

For parents, participating in such programs offers a valuable opportunity to reconnect with nature themselves, often a casualty of modern, urbanized lifestyles. Engaging in gardening can provide a sense of accomplishment, promote physical activity, and create a shared interest that can be enjoyed with their children. Moreover, the lessons learned in the garden about patience, perseverance, and the rewards of nurturing growth can be readily translated into parenting practices.

The successful completion of the April session of "A Garden Dreaming of Happiness" signals a continued commitment by the Chungcheongnam-do Children's Character Education Center to promoting holistic development through nature-integrated programs. The center has announced that similar programs will be offered in May and throughout the second half of 2025, indicating a strong demand and recognition of the program's value.

Guardians and institutions interested in participating in these enriching experiences are encouraged to visit the Chungcheongnam-do Children's Character Education Center website at www.insung.go.kr for detailed information on application procedures and program schedules. This initiative serves as a commendable model for fostering not only character development but also the crucial connection between families and the invaluable lessons and well-being benefits that the natural world provides. The center's dedication to offering such programs underscores the growing recognition of nature as an essential partner in raising well-rounded and happy children.