Sankofa Sprouts

Sankofa Sprouts: The Salad Bowl Project is a step-by-step guide to the wonderful world of gardening. The book is for educational purposes. The focus is on growing cherry tomatoes, leaf lettuce, and radish. The book is designed for children in the third and fourth grades. But it could also be helpful for children in the second grade when they are working with older youth or an adult. Fifth graders who want to grow their mentoring skills or enjoy helping younger children can join in too.

This book is designed to help African American children connect with their rich cultural heritage in gardening and community building. Rooted in practical knowledge, this book makes gardening approachable for children. It teaches them how to grow plants with care while also connecting to their cultural roots. Throughout the book there are joyful images of Black children engaging in gardening activities, and relevant Black history tidbits. Children are encouraged to see themselves as part of a legacy of contributors, to not just gardening, but to the environment.

My career has focused on supporting the growth and development of African American children and youth. This book reflects both my personal passion and professional commitment. I use my experiences as an educator and Master Gardener, along with my expertise in Child and Adolescent Development. This book brings together the science of how children grow with the joy of watching gardens grow.

Afterward, you can choose which planting chapter(s) to focus. These include (a) Knowing and Growing Tomatoes, (b) Knowing and Growing Lettuce, and (c) Knowing and Growing Radishes. The book offers activities that can be used in Spring, Summer, and Fall, depending on where you live.

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