A Journey into Mangroves: Learning, Thinking and Discovering

When we decided to take on a multidisciplinary project (MDP) centered on mangroves, we knew we wanted to integrate different subjects—science, ecology, geography, math, and language—in a way that felt natural and engaging.

We started with ecosystems, but soon realized that before diving into them, we needed to step back and revisit landforms. The children weren’t clear on how different landforms support different ecosystems, so we spent time understanding them first. Once they had a strong foundation, we returned to ecosystems, exploring how living and non-living elements interact, and how species depend on each other to thrive. It took some time for the children to truly grasp that ecosystems aren’t just about connections but about interdependence.

As we moved deeper, we categorized ecosystems—terrestrial, aquatic, tropical, temperate—and discussed their unique characteristics. A brainstorming café activity helped bring out their understanding, and it was heartening to see them actively engage in discussions, adding their own ideas to the mix.

That’s when we arrived at mangroves, a fascinating ecosystem that thrives in the intertidal zone, where freshwater meets seawater. We explored their unique adaptations, from salt filtration to aerial roots, and watched documentaries on Sundarbans, Chilika Lake, and Pichavaram. The children were amazed to learn that some of these mangroves are Ramsar sites, recognized for their ecological importance.

Understanding adaptations wasn’t just about reading or watching videos. We did a simple osmosis experiment—soaking potatoes in salt water and observing how one became limp while the other stayed firm. This demonstrated why mangroves need special adaptations to survive in high-salinity conditions.

But one of the most exciting activities was Mangrove Metaphors.

We began with a visualization exercise—closing our eyes and imagining ourselves inside a mangrove, wading through water, feeling the breeze, hearing the birds. This helped the children connect emotionally before engaging intellectually.

Then came the mystery bin! The children had to reach in, pick a random object blindly, and figure out how it could relate to mangroves. A toy fish, a whisk, Eno salt, a cradle, a band-aid strip, a tea strainer, a filter paper… at first, their connections were mostly about roots, lenticels, and salt filtration. While these are important, they hadn’t yet considered the broader impact of mangroves—like how they protect coastlines, support biodiversity, and act as natural water purifiers.

So, we played at least three rounds of the activity. With each round, their connections grew deeper. A filter paper? Like how mangroves clean water. A cradle? Just like how they protect baby fish. Eno salt? A reminder of how mangroves manage salt. A band-aid? Just like how they prevent erosion. A toy bird? A symbol of the rich birdlife that thrives there.

Now, they want to repeat the activity—because they see that the more they play, the more they understand. Repetition will help reinforce their learning, improve retention, and refine their thinking. And since these are everyday objects, there’s a good chance that whenever they see a whisk or a tea strainer in the future, they’ll be reminded of the incredible functions of mangroves.

Challenges Became Fun

Throughout this journey, I kept checking in with them. Was it too difficult? Too boring? Their response was always the same—it’s hard, it’s challenging, but it’s interesting too! It became clear that when there’s a challenge to tackle, learning becomes more engaging.

Even concepts that didn’t sink in on the first attempt became clearer as we revisited them over multiple days. They worked through them, extended their thinking, and in doing so, built a deeper understanding.

Reflections as a Facilitator

This journey has been as much a learning experience for me as it has been for the children. I’ve seen firsthand how nature-based education can truly transform learning—making it more engaging, memorable, and meaningful. While we had a structured learning path, we also adapted based on the children’s needs. The project wasn’t about teaching—it was about discovering together.

From improving their language skills through note-taking and descriptive writing to enhancing critical thinking through discussions and hands-on experiments, this MDP has given them tools that go beyond just learning about mangroves. They now know how to observe, connect, and think critically—skills that will serve them well in any field.

What’s Next?

Now, there’s one question that keeps coming up—Can we visit a mangrove?

The excitement is real. They want to see if they can spot the adaptations they’ve learned about. They want to walk through the roots, listen to the birds, and maybe even try fishing. Their curiosity has gone beyond the classroom, and that, to me, is the biggest success of this journey.

And so, the adventure continues!