PLANTING OF AN ADAPTED RAISED BED WITH STUDENTS WITH MOBILITY AND INTELLECTUAL IMPAIRMENTS WITHIN THE CLENA PROJECT

 

More and more people are turning to nature, eager for a connection with the earth and growing their own food. In this spirit, planting an adapted raised bed has become a popular activity in many communities. This approach not only enables easy gardening but also opens doors to inclusivity and connection among people with different abilities.

As part of the CLENA project, we are conducting the activity of planting an adapted raised bed involving the project team and our students. An adapted raised bed is a gardening structure that allows plants to be grown on a raised surface. It can be a box, a wooden crate, or another form placed at a height accessible to everyone, regardless of their mobility. This approach is particularly beneficial for people with mobility impairments or back problems as it allows gardening without unnecessary bending or kneeling.

When designing the adapted bed, we take into account the individual needs of students in wheelchairs. The suitable height and dimensions enable easy access and mobility during activities. We are working with students to arrange the adapted raised bed. In addition to planting a variety of vegetables such as tomatoes, strawberries, and herbs like lemongrass and basil, we have also added special signage boards that label each type of plant. This allows students to learn about different types of plants and their characteristics while contributing to the aesthetic appearance of the garden.

Activities conducted on the raised bed are an opportunity for learning various skills, including motor, cognitive, and social skills. We encourage every progress, no matter how small, which contributes to the increase in confidence and motivation of our students. Working on the raised bed can be therapeutic and relaxing, helping to reduce stress and anxiety while promoting physical activity. For those with mobility impairments, this can be particularly important as it allows movement and work outdoors or indoors without barriers.

In addition to its impact on individuals, planting an adapted raised bed also has a positive impact on the environment and the local community. By growing our own food, we reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainable living. Furthermore, community gardens strengthen bonds among neighbors, encourage resource sharing, and support local self-sufficiency.

Planting an adapted raised bed is not just a gardening activity; it is an opportunity to create an inclusive and connected environment that strengthens both individuals and the community as a whole. Grab a shovel and start planting the seeds of collaboration and growth!

Simon Krajnc and Aleksandra Kvrzič, members of the project team