Our Philosophy

To effect positive change in our community by creating opportunities in the outdoors for personal growth, leadership development and the building of relationships through exceptional camping experiences.

At YMCA Camp Shady Brook, we believe every participant should have the following opportunities:

• Participate in a community in which all are safe and accepted

• Receive support and guidance in setting and achieving goals

• Increase self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem

• Expand their sense of responsibility for the communities shared experiences

• Develop healthy, supportive relationships with peers and mentors

• Appreciate nature in a beautiful outdoor setting

• Explore and expand new and existing skill sets

School gardens are important because they offer numerous benefits to students, educators, and the community, including promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering environmental awareness, and enhancing academic achievement. They provide hands-on learning opportunities, encourage teamwork and communication, and boost student engagement and self-esteem. 

Specific Benefits:

• Health and Nutrition:

  They promote healthy eating habits by giving students access to fresh, locally grown produce and teaching them about nutrition. 

• Environmental Awareness and Stewardship:

  Students learn about the natural world, sustainability, and the importance of conservation through hands-on gardening experiences. 

• Social and Emotional Development:

  Gardening fosters teamwork, communication, and self-esteem, and can reduce stress and anxiety. 

• Community Building:

  School gardens can bring together students, teachers, parents, and community members, strengthening bonds and promoting collaboration. 

• Physical Activity:

  Gardening provides opportunities for outdoor exercise and physical activity, which is beneficial for both physical and mental health. 

• Taste and Food Preferences:

  Studies show that students who grow their own food are more likely to try new vegetables and develop a preference for them. 

• Outdoor Classroom:

  School gardens extend the classroom beyond traditional walls, offering a natural and engaging learning environment. 

• Academic Achievement:

  School gardens can improve grades, particularly in subjects like science, math, and language arts, by providing a real-world context for learning. 

Sensory gardens at schools are valuable because they provide rich, multi-sensory experiences that benefit students' learning, development, and well-being. They offer a safe and stimulating environment for all abilities, promoting social skills, sensory integration, and a deeper connection with nature. 

Here's a more detailed look at the importance of sensory gardens at schools:

1. Enhanced Learning and Development:

• Sensory Stimulation:

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  Sensory gardens stimulate the senses through various textures, scents, sounds, and colors, promoting sensory development and engagement. 

• Sensory Integration:

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  They provide opportunities for students, especially those with sensory processing differences, to practice sensory integration, improving their ability to process information and respond to stimuli. 

• Hands-on Learning:

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  Gardens offer hands-on learning experiences, connecting abstract concepts to real-world environments and fostering a deeper understanding of subjects like botany, ecology, and nutrition. 

2. Inclusive and Accessible Learning Environment:

• Inclusive Play:

  Sensory gardens are designed to be inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to interact and play together, promoting empathy and social skills. 

• Safe and Calming Space:

  They can serve as a safe and calming space for students who may be easily overwhelmed by bright lights or loud noises, offering a refuge for self-regulation and stress reduction. 

• Alternative Learning Environments:

  Sensory gardens can provide alternative learning environments, offering a change of pace and a different way to engage with educational content. 

3. Social and Emotional Benefits:

• Social Interaction:

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  They provide a shared space for students to interact, communicate, and play together, fostering social skills like sharing, cooperation, and negotiation. 

• Emotional Regulation:

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  The calming nature of sensory gardens can help students regulate their emotions, reduce stress, and promote a sense of calm and well-being. 

• Sense of Community:

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  Sensory gardens can foster a sense of community and belonging, as students participate in creating and maintaining the space. 

4. Environmental Awareness and Stewardship:

• Connection with Nature:

  Sensory gardens provide opportunities for students to connect with nature, fostering an appreciation for the environment and promoting environmental stewardship. 

• Learning about Plant Life:

  Students can learn about different plants, their roles in ecosystems, and the importance of biodiversity through gardening activities. 

• Promoting Sustainable Practices:

  Sensory gardens can be designed to incorporate sustainable practices, such as composting and rainwater harvesting, teaching students about environmental responsibility.