From Garden to Market: Teaching Skills Through Entrepreneurship

What happens after a child grows something?

At Bronx Special Kids, that question can become another learning opportunity.

Our sensory gardening curriculum ends with a Garden Celebration and Market Day where children can prepare simple garden products, create signs, package items, practice greetings, use price visuals, and participate in a mock farmers market. AAC can be incorporated into pricing and greetings, and children can use visual shopping lists.

This reflects a larger idea that has been part of the Seeds of Independence model: connecting gardening, creative work, food justice, and entrepreneurship so children can build practical skills through accessible, hands-on experiences.

Entrepreneurship for children does not have to begin with complicated business plans.

It can begin with: I made this. How should we package it? What should our sign say? How much should it cost? How can I greet someone? What job would I like to do?

One child may enjoy creating the product. Another might make signs. Someone else may organize the table, count items, greet customers using AAC, or help package what the group created.

Entrepreneurship becomes another flexible learning environment.

The goal is not simply selling something. It is helping children experience themselves as makers, contributors, decision-makers, and members of their community.

Source note: Adapted from the Week 6 Garden Celebration & Market Day curriculum and Seeds of Independence presentation materials.