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The Giving Tree
Cultivate Mankato
July 22 - August 6
Opening Reception: July 22 5-7pm
The artistic concept of The Giving Tree takes the narrative of Shel Silverstein’s book, The Giving Tree, and provides opportunities for children to give to the tree; to shower the tree with items, objects, and memories that are incredibly meaningful to them.
Through this practice of giving, children are able to share a piece of their environment and their meaningful treasures with the greater community. The community is then able to honor the meaning of children and begin to ask questions about how children make sense of the world and the environment.
The gifts that the children bring to the tree are unique to them and wholly individual. They are unguided and simply based on the child’s willingness and ability to give meaning to an object and then to give the object away.
The tree represents a reminder of the interconnectedness of nature and self. In our fast paced environment, it is easy to ignore our relationship with nature and how we are connected to it. And, it’s important to remember that we are in relationship with everything around us.
Cultivate Mankato is a Child Development & Resource Center with two locations; one location in beautiful, downtown Mankato and one location on the hilltop near the hospital. Our vision is to cultivate an inclusive community working together to create a safe and stimulating environment of love and learning for all children.
Cultivate Mankato is rooted in developing strong, consistent, loving and respectful relationships with children, families and care providers. We do this by nurturing children, making intentional efforts to grow communities and empowering parents with the tools and resources they need. We serve children 6 weeks to 6 years old.
