RESEARCH

Care Farming Program for Family Health: A Pilot Study with Mothers and Children

This study demonstrated that a care farming program improved mothers’ resilience, communication skills, and depression levels, while also enhancing children’s emotional intelligence. These findings suggest that care farming can be a valuable intervention for improving family health and well-being.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social

Population Groups: Children/Youth

Setting or Context: Farms, Healthcare Centre

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening, Growing Plants from Seed

Evidence Type: Qualitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

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Summary

This study looked at the effects of a six-week care farming program on the communication skills and psychological health of mothers and children in South Korea. Sixteen mother-child pairs participated in weekly sessions that involved gardening activities like planting, harvesting, and cooking. The program incorporated parenting education, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an emotional intelligence model to improve family interactions. Researchers assessed communication skills, depression, resilience (for mothers), and emotional intelligence (for children) before and after the program.

The study found that mothers experienced increased resilience, improved communication with their children, and decreased depression. Children showed significant improvements in emotional intelligence. The researchers concluded that care farming programs can positively impact family health by improving communication skills, psychological well-being, and emotional intelligence, suggesting it could be a useful tool for addressing family-related challenges.