San Diego Moms: Mom celebrates 10 years of Coastal Roots Farm education

Kimberly Tomlinson director of schooling at Coastal Roots Farm Courtesy photo Encinitas-based Coastal Roots Farm will celebrate its th anniversary of region and learning this year The farm has a mission to practice organic farming share harvest with those who lack access deliver unique farm-based development and foster inclusive spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together We spoke to local mom Kimberly Tomlinson director of training at Coastal Roots Farm about what it means to integrate play and exploration at the farm What is it like being an educator at Coastal Roots Farm Working and specifically teaching at the farm is such a wonderful experience for me There are so a great number of life lessons that happen in a garden space In a garden kids are exposed to authentic challenges like How do I help this plant to grow and What does this plant need to survive and thrive and Gee why is it taking so long for the strawberries to turn red Working in garden spaces can teach patience perseverance and resilience I love being able to be a guide for littles who are coming to the Farm and are exploring the world for the first time What does it mean for you as a mother to work at the Farm Working at the Farm allows me as an educator to meet every child who visits the Farm exactly where they are Several of us as parents or educators are very aware of the benefits of outdoor development We know that unstructured intentional free-exploration is foundational for early childhood enhancement Despite knowing these benefits it can feel overwhelming to try to implement opportunities for authentic hands-on experiences in our homes or classrooms I love offering a safe space for families to come and get their hands dirty How do you incorporate lessons as a mother into your work My own kids are and almost Their interests and learning styles are emerging in such distinct strategies It is so unique that I get to merge my personal and professional experiences but who my children are directly influences how I work with young children at the Farm and my professional experience directly informs the educational approaches I take with my own babies What do you hope families get out of Coastal Roots Farm Coastal Roots Farm s Nature Play plan runs three days a week and is serving the youngest visitors to the Farm along with their care providers My hope is that every family who comes to visit the Farm during Nature Play feels welcomed inspired and loved The Farm is a space that is open and welcoming to all and we strive to offer a space that feels inviting and approachable for families of all backgrounds For more information about Coastal Roots Farm go to coastalrootsfarm org