🐿 A Squirrel Awareness Lecture at the Waldorf School in Brtonigla: Connecting with Nature through Knowledge and Compassion

On Thursday, May 22nd, 2025, upper-grade students at the Waldorf School in Brtonigla had the opportunity to attend a special lecture on the life and protection of squirrels. The lecture was delivered by Conny Petö Đeneš, founder of the Health Center Harmony, with the support of Dražen Požarić, volunteer and co-leader of the Lend a Hand to Nature project.

Through an inspiring and informative presentation, students learned about what squirrels eat, how many species exist, how they live in both natural and urban environments, and how humans can act responsibly toward them. Special attention was given to what to do if one encounters a baby squirrel that has fallen from its nest, and how to assist an injured squirrel without causing additional stress.

The lecture soon evolved into an open conversation, as students expressed curiosity, empathy, and a strong interest in the topic. They were especially intrigued by how squirrels survive the winter, where they sleep, whether they might bite, and where they drink water in places like Africa.

🌱 Gardening as a Pathway to Life Learning

Although the students are not full-time gardeners, gardening is a regular subject in the Waldorf curriculum. Through hands-on experience, they explore nature and ecological plant cultivation. Students attend their gardening class at the outdoor atelier location in the natural setting of 'Šumske Boje' in Nova Vas, where teachers regularly bring them every Thursday." This approach not only fosters ecological awareness but also encourages a deeper understanding of natural processes, promotes inquiry-based learning, and nurtures a sense of responsibility for the living world.

To enhance the quality of their gardening education, the school collaborates with experts in permaculture and biodynamic agriculture, as well as organizations devoted to the protection of small and large forest animals. It was within this educational spirit that the collaboration with the Health Center Harmony and the Lend a Hand to Nature project took root.

🏡 Squirrel Houses – A Small Project with a Big Heart

One of the most creative and hands-on parts of the event was the construction of squirrel houses. The materials were generously donated by local resident Darko Damijanić, who regularly supports meaningful and sustainable community initiatives. Students enthusiastically followed instructions and used their own hands to build shelters that will serve as protection for squirrels during colder days.

The houses will be placed in safe natural locations, offering refuge to red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris), a species considered endangered in many parts of Europe, including the Istrian region.

👣 Next Steps – Continuing the Partnership and Observing Urban Squirrels

This collaboration is only just beginning. Joint outings and squirrel observation activities are planned in the urban areas of Poreč. Students will have the chance to learn how squirrel behavior changes with the seasons, what their nests look like, what dangers they face in the city, and how we can protect them while respecting their natural freedom.

These kinds of experiences enrich knowledge and cultivate a love of nature, while giving children the opportunity to deepen their connection with the world around them – and with themselves.

Warm thanks go to all the teachers, especially Elsa Demark Mazalović, the students, and everyone who contributed to this meaningful event with their presence, knowledge, and open hearts. Because every time a child learns how to help an animal, a new spark of awareness is planted – and the world becomes a better place.