• The Joy of Nature Play with Kids on a Sustainable Urban Farm
  • The Joy of Nature Play with Kids on a Sustainable Urban Farm

    In the hustle and bustle of urban life in Singapore, it's easy to feel disconnected from nature. Yet, amidst the concrete jungle, there exists an oasis of greenery and sustainability where families have a unique opportunity to reconnect with the natural world through nature play - our sustainable urban farm! 

In the hustle and bustle of urban life in Singapore, it's easy to feel disconnected from nature. Yet, amidst the concrete jungle, there exists an oasis of greenery and sustainability where families have a unique opportunity to reconnect with the natural world through nature play - our sustainable urban farm! 

 

Urban farms are more than just patches of land; they are vibrant ecosystems teeming with life. 

From chickens clucking, buzzing bees pollinating flowers, to earthworms aerating the soil, every corner of the farm pulsates with life. For children, these farms are like outdoor classrooms, offering hands-on lessons in ecology and agriculture. As they roam among the crops, they learn about the interconnectedness of all living things and develop a profound appreciation for the environment.

 

A young girl playing with a chicken in an urban farm

 

Unstructured play gives children the freedom to explore, grow in independence, while improving their health. 

One of the greatest joys of nature play on an urban farm is the freedom it affords children. Unlike structured activities or screen time, exploring the farm allows kids to exercise their creativity and curiosity without constraints. They can run across open fields, venture into exciting and different greenhouses, climb trees, and splash in muddy puddles to their heart's content. In this unstructured environment, they learn to take risks, problem-solve, and develop a sense of independence.

 

Children threshing rice to find seeds after harvesting at our Kids Adventure Camp

 

Moreover, nature play on an urban farm nurtures a deep sense of stewardship in children. As they engage in planting seeds, watering plants, and harvesting vegetables, they understand the importance of caring for the land. They witness firsthand the cycle of growth and decay, fostering a sense of responsibility towards the environment. This hands-on involvement instils values of sustainability and conservation that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Beyond the educational benefits, nature play on an urban farm offers numerous health advantages for children. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can improve physical fitness, reduce stress, and enhance cognitive development. The fresh air and sunshine invigorate their senses, rejuvenating both body and mind. Moreover, interacting with animals on the farm, from friendly ducks to clucking chickens, teaches kids empathy and compassion towards living creatures.

 

Three children touching earthworms while learning about their role as decomposers in the environment!

 

It’s never too early to start learning how to slow down to embrace the present moment and prepare ourselves for the future. 

In today's fast-paced world, where digital distractions abound, the simple pleasure of connecting with nature is invaluable. Urban farms provide a sanctuary where families can escape the noise of the city and immerse themselves in the tranquillity for a few hours. The sights, sounds, and smells of the farm awaken the senses, grounding both children and adults in the present moment.

As we strive towards a more sustainable future, urban farms play a crucial role in promoting environmental awareness and food security, a topic especially salient for Singapore. By engaging in nature play on these farms, families not only reap the physical and mental benefits but also contribute to the greater good. They support local agriculture, reduce their carbon footprint, and foster community resilience in the face of climate change.

The joy of nature play with kids on a sustainable urban farm is truly boundless. It offers a sanctuary where families can reconnect with nature, learn valuable life lessons, and foster a sense of stewardship towards the environment. As we embrace the simple pleasures of outdoor exploration, we sow the seeds of a greener, healthier future for generations to come.

 

A happy bunch of kids at the end of our Kids Adventure Camp!
Back to blog

Related articles

Farm-to-Table Flavors: Chef Kevin’s Greenhouse— Farmer's Story EP. 8 | Life in an urban farm

Meet Chef Kevin, a private chef turned farmer at City Sprouts, who brings his culinary vision to life by growing his own ingredients. Originally from Fiji, Kevin’s greenhouse serves as a bridge between his heritage and his cooking. With an impressive array of produce, Kevin combines freshness with flavour in a true farm-to-table experience. Join him and taste the difference in every harvest, as he brings sustainable, locally grown produce straight from his garden to your plate.

A Kampung Escape: Nadia's Laughing Leaves— Farmer's Story EP. 10 | Life in an urban farm

Welcome to Laughing Leaves, Nadia’s green haven at City Sprouts West Coast. This unique plot is filled with herbs, fruits, vegetables, and plants like the aromatic Serai Kayu, all nurtured through a love for sustainable gardening. Guided by Nadia’s passion and her husband Encik Feroz’s handiwork, Laughing Leaves invites you to step back, enjoy the kampung vibes, and savor a serene space where visitors are welcome to share in the joy of plants and the art of relaxation.

MK is Finding Peace in Green Spaces— Farmer's Story EP. 9 | Life in an urban farm

Welcome to Yume Sanctuary, MK’s peaceful greenhouse sanctuary at City Sprouts. Inspired by zen principles and horticulture therapy, Yume Sanctuary offers a safe, calming space where visitors can connect with plants, nurture creativity, and find inner peace through plant crafting and interaction. Join MK as she shares her journey and passion for creating this unique, therapeutic sanctuary.

Uncle Ko: A Journey Back to His Roots— Farmer's Story EP. 1 | Life in an urban farm

In an unexpected twist of fate, Uncle Ko’s journey with City Sprouts began where his childhood did—at his old primary school, Keng Seng School. Now transformed into an urban farm, City Sprouts holds both new growth and nostalgia for Uncle Ko. This space carries decades of history, from the days when pigs roamed freely during Kampong times to today’s thriving greenhouses.

Sucan's Skool Of Kaktus— Farmer's Story EP. 5 | Life in an urban farm

Welcome to the Skool of Kaktus! In this episode, we meet Sucan, a passionate cactus enthusiast and farmer at City Sprouts (Punggol). Join us as Sucan takes us through his fascinating cactus collection, sharing his journey of growing these hardy plants and his commitment to sustainability. From his humble beginnings to becoming a passionate educator, Sucan’s love for cacti shines through. Let’s dive into his story!