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"Victory Garden" Teaches Health to Greenburgh Kids

Most children like pizza, and what better way to enjoy it than to make it themselves? That is what Patricia Levy's fourth-grade class at Greenburgh's Richard J. Bailey set out to do when planting their "Victory Garden."

While teaching the children about health and nutrition, Levy and her class planted watermelon, potatoes, lettuce, beans, squash, cucumber and zucchini.

"We're talking about folic acid, vitamin A and vitamin C," said Levy. "We figured out what's healthy and we talked about the food circle. We know all the important healthy foods. And in class, we're talking about exercise."

Located outdoors behind the school, the garden received plenty of water during the recent rainy months, helping the garden to thrive. That was especially helpful on weekends when the children were not around to water. Normally, the children are sent out in groups to water the plants.

"It's a lovely responsibility for the children," said Levy. "It's a nice lesson for them. And to see something grow, they're so excited to see a difference. Everything is growing nicely."

The project began in March, and the fourth-graders are looking to harvest the vegetables this summer to make a healthy pizza and salad.

Levy's class is often environmentally-oriented. Prior to the garden, they planted trees for Arbor Day, saved animals, contributed to the Save the Whales initiative, and planted pine trees around the playground.

"As a class, we've been concerned about the environment and healthy food," said Levy. "We've always tried to encourage the kids. I think they enjoy it. It's very important."

Do you know a school who encourages health with hands-on education?

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