Horticulture therapy for disabled children gaining popularity in Kerala

Written by DC Reporter Tuesday, 15 June 2010 17:17

Kochi: Horticulture therapy is attracting many in Kerala as the disabled children benefit for the healing qualities of gardening. The project named Green Brigade, started by Centre for Rehabilitation of the Disabled (CRD) is going to be implemented in various institutions across the state.

Horticulture therapy is the process utilizing plants and horticultural activities to improve social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment of persons thus improving their body, mind, and spirit. The therapy was introduced by Dr. Beela G.K., assistant professor (Child and Human Development), Department of Home Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, and financed by State Horticulture Mission.

The project started in December 2008 has worked successfully, and the healing qualities of gardening did wonders for the children. The project has found a supporter in Kerala State Council for Science Technology and Environment (KSCSTE).

The Department of Home Science, Kerala Agriculture University, Vellayani, is going to introduce this project at Vocational Rehabilitation Centre for Handicapped at Nalanchira with the financial support of KSCSTE. The purpose of this venture is to empower the challenged children of this centre which is run by the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India.

Under this project, the students will be going through a treatment method using plants and plant related activities to improve the social, educational, psychological and physical adjustment, as a result improving the childs body, mind and spirit.

Experts have proved that, the disabled and physically challenged, who are low on confidence and self-esteem, experience a change when they plant a sapling and that flowers or bears fruit.

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Horticulture therapy for disabled children gaining popularity in Kerala

Written by DC Reporter Tuesday, 15 June 2010 17:17

The children would be encouraged to develop emotional attachment with the plants. They would be taught the importance of having plants at home, how to choose the varieties and design a garden, especially a raised garden bed which has gunny bags and pots for those with mobility problems.

In the project, fast yielding varieties of plants have been chosen and access is given priority. The concept of raised garden beds and vertical garden, for those children who have difficulty moving, will be implemented.

Identification and familiarization of ornamental plants, fruits, vegetables, medicinal and aromatic plants, personality development programmes and post horticulture therapy sessions are included in this project.

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