During this year's winter retreat in Ledići, children from the Home for children without parental care in Bjelave, Sarajevo, had the opportunity to learn about plant cultivation through a hands-on workshop. The first group of children began an experiment with bean seeds, while the second group continued where their friends left off—by planting sprouted beans.
The workshop started with a simple yet effective method of growing beans. The children placed cotton in plastic cups, moistened it with water, and added bean seeds. Each child labeled their cup to track how the seeds opened and slowly sprouted, fostering curiosity and excitement as they observed plant growth. The most successful in seed preparation were Džejla, Nusret, Edin, Ajdin, and Anita.
By the time the second group arrived, the beans had sprouted, so the young gardeners transferred them into pots and placed them in a warm area inside the house to continue growing. The plan is to transplant them outdoors into the garden when weather conditions allow, enabling the children to continue monitoring their growth and learning about plant care.
Belma Mujezinović, Director of Foundation Second, expressed hope that a donation of a greenhouse would soon be secured, allowing the children to expand their knowledge of plant cultivation and develop independent gardening skills throughout the year.
This workshop was just one of the many educational activities organized during the winter retreat in Ledići. The house in the village was granted to the Bjelave Home by Fondacija ProBITRA for a 99-year period. This small spot on Bjelašnica Mountain has already become a place where children from the Home create unforgettable memories in nature, socializing and learning through various workshops. Foundation Second, which organized the retreat with the support of donors, enabled the children to develop new skills and a love for nature through play and hands-on activities.
Beyond learning about plants, the children participated in various other age-appropriate workshops, from creative drawing and modeling sessions to team games that strengthen unity and trust. Each of these activities aimed to provide them with memorable experiences and practical skills for everyday life.
Planting beans may seem like a simple activity, but for children growing up in institutional care, it means much more—it is an opportunity to see the tangible results of their effort, develop patience, and experience the joy of nurturing a plant. This workshop symbolizes growth and hope, just like the small seed that transforms into a strong plant, ready to be transplanted and continue thriving.