In my many years of working with GOD International's youth programs, I've seen various challenges, but none quite like the social disconnect middle schoolers face today. On the first day of our CASE summer program, students arrived with their faces glued to their phones, barely interacting with one another. Everyone assumed the same posture, head down and hunched over their phones. It was clear that my biggest challenge would be to help them find connection with their peers away from their screens.
We implemented a rule: no phones during activities. This was met with groans and promises to comply, but every break saw phones emerging from pockets. Our summer curriculum, supported by a grant, included outdoor activities and online lessons about agriculture and food production. Despite initial resistance because of the heat, we managed to spend an hour outdoors each day.
Our outdoor time involved exploring the wooded area around our campus, making environmental observations, or working in Hopewell Gardens with Jameson Parker, who taught us about garden management. While participation wasn't always perfect, interest grew as the weeks went on. Students started putting their phones away voluntarily, and I often caught them taking pictures or recording our activities instead.
Many students confessed they spent too much time on screens and not enough time face-to-face with friends. Over time, I noticed more conversations and greater enthusiasm for our outdoor excursions. After collecting eggs one day, a student remarked on the hard work required to produce food, leading to a discussion with him about appreciating the people behind our food supply.
A particularly memorable day for me involved processing garlic together under a hot sun. One student began singing songs his mom sings while she cooks, and another joined in. I had never heard it before so I just listened. It was a beautiful moment that connected us through shared traditions and work ethic. Some students even expressed interest in working at Hopewell Gardens as part of the WorkWell program next year.
By the last week of the program, I noticed a significant change. Very few of the students had their phones out during our break time; instead, they were playing card games and laughing, invested in an intense game of four square, and simply talking to each other. Though it got loud and chaotic at times, it was heartwarming to see their social skills blossom after just four weeks of intentional times away from screens and taking time to learn in nature.
As these students prepare for another school year, I hope they've gained an appreciation for the lessons nature offers beyond the traditional classroom. Despite the discomfort or initial disinterest, these experiences remain an invaluable endeavor. I believe that fostering healthy, meaningful social interactions among our youth is crucial for their development and overall wellbeing and I look forward to seeing the fruits of all the seeds planted this summer.
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