The Three Sisters image by Joachim Quandt is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License
A life amongst the plants!
Gardening provides children with a hands-on way to connect with nature and learn about the interdependence of living things. It allows them to engage with the natural world in a way that is tangible and meaningful, while also learning about Indigenous knowledge and sustainable agriculture practices. By participating in the planting, tending, and harvesting of the Three Sisters garden, children can learn valuable lessons about the cycles of nature, the importance of biodiversity, and the role that humans play in shaping our environment.
An Appreciation
Unlike row gardening, the Three Sisters gardening technique is a traditional method of intercropping that has been practiced by Indigenous peoples for centuries. By discussing the historical and cultural significance of the Three Sisters, children can gain an appreciation into the ways in which Indigenous peoples have lived in harmony with the land for generations.
The Tradition Planting Method, image can be found on the Cornell University website and is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License
Stewardship
The project will foster a sense of stewardship and responsibility towards the environment. As children witness the growth of their garden and the impact it has on their local ecosystem. This connection to nature can also have positive impacts on children's mental health and well-being, promoting a sense of calm and connection to something larger than themselves.
The image showcases a plentiful harvest obtained from a Three Sisters crop, which includes squash, corn, and beans. It is featured on the Carleton webpage and can be found in Lauren Kepkiewicz's article "How can CCE support Indigenous struggles for land through food?", published on February 5, 2016.