Encinitas-based Coastal Roots Farm will celebrate its 10th anniversary of community and learning this year.
The farm has a mission to practice organic farming, share harvest with those who lack access, deliver unique farm-based education and foster inclusive spaces for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together.
We spoke to local mom Kimberly Tomlinson, director of education at Coastal Roots Farm, about what it means to integrate play and exploration at the farm.
What is it like being an educator at Coastal Roots Farm?
Working, and specifically teaching, at the farm is such a wonderful experience for me. There are so many life lessons that happen in a garden space! In a garden, kids are exposed to authentic challenges like “How do I help this plant to grow?” and “What does this plant need to survive and thrive?” and “Gee, why is it taking so long for the strawberries to turn red?” Working in garden spaces can teach patience, perseverance, and resilience. I love being able to be a guide for littles who are coming to the Farm and are exploring the world for the first time.
What does it mean for you as a mother to work at the Farm?
Working at the Farm allows me, as an educator, to meet every child who visits the Farm exactly where they are. Many of us, as parents or educators, are very aware of the benefits of outdoor education. We know that unstructured, intentional, free-exploration is foundational for early childhood development. Despite knowing these benefits, it can feel overwhelming to try to implement opportunities for authentic, hands-on experiences in our homes or classrooms. I love offering a safe space for families to come and get their hands dirty.
How do you incorporate lessons as a mother into your work?
My own kids are 5 and almost 3. Their interests and learning styles are emerging in such distinct ways. It is so unique that I get to merge my personal and professional experiences but who my children are directly influences how I work with young children at the Farm and my professional experience directly informs the educational approaches I take with my own babies!
What do you hope families get out of Coastal Roots Farm?
Coastal Roots Farm’s Nature Play program runs three days a week and is serving the youngest visitors to the Farm along with their caregivers. My hope is that every family who comes to visit the Farm during Nature Play feels welcomed, inspired and loved! The Farm is a space that is open and welcoming to all and we strive to offer a space that feels inviting and approachable for families of all backgrounds.
For more information about Coastal Roots Farm, go to coastalrootsfarm.org.
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