Our Willow students voted on what they would like to grow in the classroom hydroponic garden. They started the year by growing basil for pesto. Next they planted a salsa kit which included heirloom cherry tomatoes and jalapenos peppers. The students spent three-four months noticing how the tomato plants grew more quickly than the peppers. Students were responsible for watering and adding nutrients to the garden. They were excited to see each flower turn into a tomato or pepper. After testing the ripeness of the tomatoes, students made salsa.

Given the choice to start new plants, students chose to try more tomatoes so they can put together tomatoes, basil and mozzarella for Italian crostini.

Willow River’s Tower Garden has moved on to Mrs. Jackson’s 4th grade class. We’re excited to see what sprouts!

Here’s something really simple that families can do to improve their children’s chance of future health and success: make sure they spend plenty of time playing outside!  In the Hudson Elementary Schools, our students have daily recess built into their days, to provide opportunities to develop important life skills.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, there are several benefits found in being outdoors:

1.  Exercise. While children can be active indoors, playing outside with a ball, bike or sled encourages kids to get exercise and fresh air!

2.  Creativity and Problem Solving. The unstructured feel of playing outside encourages creativity, with children making up their own games, figuring things out, and finding things to keep themselves busy.

3.  Socialization. While structured settings, such as school or sports teams, have benefits, children need to learn how to work and play together on their own. Playing outside with friends provides plenty of opportunities for interaction.

Whether it’s sunny or snowy, there are lots of things for children to do outside.  Find time for your kids to play in the snow – make a snowman, have a snowball fight, or go sledding.  There are many adventures waiting for you when you just get outside and play!!