We Care for Our Environment

Our Start Small Dream Big (SSDB) journey began with the launch of the project, where children received their SSDB activity launch party packs and were introduced to the purpose of SSDB which is to nurture empathy, positive values and social responsibility through meaningful action. Inspired by the theme of Biodiversity, the children explored the question, "How can we care and support living things to grow in our outdoor environment?". Through discussions and brainstorming, they identified ways to support plants and animals within their environment while learning to distinguish between living and non-living things, understand the uses of plants and appreciate the diversity of shapes found in nature. Their curiosity was further ignited during a visit to Gardens by the Bay, where they observed the rich variety of plants and learnt about what plants need to thrive. Back in school, they had a story-telling session by one of the parents also deepened their understanding through the story An Adventure in a City in a Garden, connecting biodiversity to Singapore's unique identity as a City in Nature. The children's learning became increasingly authentic and child-led through hands-on experiences. They harvested pandan leaves from the school garden and lemongrass grown in the classroom, using their senses to compare the plants before deciding to prepare a pandan and lemongrass drink during their cookery lesson. An unexpected encounter with a caterpillar in the school garden became one of the most meaningful learning moments, as the children carefully observed and cared for it while learning about its body parts, movements and needs. Through these authentic experiences, they developed empathy, responsibility and a deeper appreciation that every living thing plays an important role in sustaining biodiversity. Recognising that environmental stewardship begins through collective effort, families became valued partners in the project by working alongside their children to design and construct 3D models of their dream TW151 centre garden using recycled and craft materials. This meaningful home-school collaboration encouraged children to express their ideas, make decisions and explore how thoughtful environments can support plants, insects, birds and other living things while promoting sustainable practices. During the Show-and-Tell session, the children confidently shared their creations, explained how their gardens would nurture biodiversity and listened respectfully to their peers' ideas, demonstrating growing confidence, communication skills and a genuine sense of ownership over their learning. The project concluded with a joyful celebration where families gathered and the children proudly showcased their work. The children also received their Gardens by the Bay Certificates of Participation. Through authentic inquiry, collaborative experiences and meaningful family partnerships, the children developed empathy, responsibility and respect for nature while recognising that even the smallest actions can contribute to protecting our environment. Our SSDB journey empowered every child to become a young changemaker who understands that caring for biodiversity begins with everyday choices and that together, we can make a meaningful difference to our community and the world.