Recently, the Jiuli Subdistrict Working Committee in Xuzhou's Gulou District partnered with Xukuangcheng Community to organize a creative "Leaf Vein Bookmark Art" activity at Xukuangcheng Kindergarten.

The event began with grid workers and volunteers leading children to the kindergarten's outdoor garden. Gathered around rustic wooden tables, the children listened with wide-eyed curiosity as volunteers explained the secrets of plant leaves. "Look, doesn’t this leaf’s vein resemble an ant’s trail home?" one volunteer remarked, using playful language to guide their observations and help them discover the connection between nature and art.

Later, the activity moved to an open-air corridor, where long tables were covered with cheerful tablecloths and lined with transparent bookmark films, small hammers, tape, and fresh leaves of various shapes. Eagerly, the children selected their favorite leaves while grid workers and teachers patiently guided them. "Gently tap and press—let the leaf’s color 'jump' onto the film," a grid worker demonstrated, bending down to assist.

Some children focused intently, carefully hammering the leaves with serious expressions; others shared leaves with friends, debating which would make the prettiest design; and some proudly held up their finished bookmarks to show everyone. Each small bookmark became a unique "memory," capturing the children’s imaginative thoughts about nature.

Throughout the event, volunteers from the Jiuli Subdistrict Working Committee and Xukuangcheng Community grid workers acted as "growth companions," offering patience and encouragement. They crouched to listen to the children’s artistic ideas, helped secure leaves carefully, and applauded their creative achievements.

This collaborative model—combining community, school, and the Working Committee—not only enhanced the children’s observation and creativity through hands-on practice but also allowed them to experience the warmth of communal care.