A successful gardener has many distinctive traits.

They must first be observant. An observant gardener will recognize that each plant is unique.

The gardener must notice that they cannot care for each plant in the same way and end up with a lush garden.

Secondly, a successful gardener must be organized. Each plant requires different amounts of water, light, weeding, and fertilizing which requires organization to keep track of.

Thirdly, a gardener also must be adaptable. They cannot go and tend to their garden in a dry, wet, normal year in the same way and expect the same results.

To follow, a gardener must exhibit patience. Not all plants will bloom at the same time or in the same way.

A gardener must also be creative. Some plants, like orchids, need structures or scaffolds to lean on to be just as successful as the rest of the garden. But the gardener must find a way to implement that.

Lastly, a successful gardener must keep their composure when working with plants because they are delicate and being to abrasive will damage them.

 

When a gardener has all these balanced their plants will develop strong roots, grow, and flourish.

 

 

I thought of this metaphor for teaching while reflecting on the most influential learning experience that I have had, which was my time working in learning assistance. I worked with amazing teachers that acted as mentors for me and explained the dynamics and diversity in the classroom.

What was most prominent from these teachers was that everyone in the classroom was unique. They had their own story. Being what it may, these students all needed help. But what that help ways was very different (which took a while for me to figure out). Eventually, being there everyday, allowed the students to trust me more, and adapt how I helped them depending on what they needed. Some modifications have a simple solution included the use of technology, having an EA read or write for the student.  But others take a lot more time. The fact that teachers put in that extra time and effort was noticeable in the kids when it was work that they could achieve compared to assignments that were really challenging for reasons outside the child’s control and the effect that this can have on a child’s mental health.

Overall, the effort that the teachers put in is outstanding in ensuring diversity and individualized learning so that each student can be successful.