Bethany Cranfill, a passionate advocate for plants based in Delano, California, is nurturing a love for greenery among all age groups through innovative educational workshops. From interactive sessions for children to tailored classes for adults, Cranfill’s dedication to botanical education has blossomed into a thriving enterprise over the past six years.
Cranfill’s journey began with a simple passion for plants which evolved into a mission to share her extensive knowledge with as wide an audience as possible. Her workshops, conducted both at schools throughout Kern County and in private settings, aim to highlight the significance of plants in everyday life, particularly focusing on succulents and cacti.
“Kids don’t often have exposure to succulents and cacti, so it’s rewarding to introduce them to a variety of plants beyond the typical grass, trees, and flowers,” Cranfill explained.
Central to her teaching approach is the use of succulents, known for their minimal maintenance needs, which serve as ideal educational tools. Cranfill tailors her lessons to suit different age groups, providing detailed insights and practical advice on succulent care, illustrated with real-life examples from her own garden, including learning from mistakes.
“For older children through adults, I offer in-depth lessons with real photos, including those from my garden, and share my experiences, which enriches their understanding of succulents,” Cranfill noted.
Participants in Cranfill’s workshops are encouraged to engage hands-on by creating their own succulent arrangements. Kim Howard, administrative assistant at Pond Elementary School, expressed enthusiasm about the impact of these sessions on students’ engagement and excitement for learning.
“The kids were incredibly interactive and curious during Bethany’s workshop,” Howard remarked. “Activities like these are crucial for keeping students engaged and eager to participate in school activities.”
Howard looks forward to continuing to integrate Cranfill’s workshops into the school’s curriculum, underscoring the growing demand for interactive and educational experiences outside traditional classroom settings.
Bethany Cranfill’s commitment to plant education underscores the importance of hands-on learning and community engagement, ensuring that both young and old recognize the indispensable role of plants in enriching our lives.
