An In-Depth Study of the Impact of Pollinator Gardens on Neurodivergent and Underprivileged Children and Social Inclusion Goals: A Primary Analysis

Rapid urbanization has led to pollinator decline and unequal access to green spaces, especially by neurodivergent and underprivileged children. This study examines pollinator gardens as a combined nature-based intervention designed to enhance biodiversity while supporting psychosocial development among vulnerable children. The research is conducted across fifteen urban and institutional sites in Ludhiana, India, through the Buzzing Blooms initiative over a period of 24 months. A convergent mixed-methods design has been used, which combines ecological monitoring of pollinator species richness and visitation frequency with structured behavioral assessments and qualitative observations of participating children. Results indicate a 155% increase in pollinator species richness, along with a substantial increase in pollinator activity across the sites. Simultaneously, participating children show measurable improvements in task completion, emotional regulation, sensory engagement, and peer interaction. Qualitative analyses identified remarkable changes in sensory integration, sustained engagement, collaborative activity, and self-efficacy. The results suggest that pollinator gardens can function as an effective dual-impact intervention that supports ecological restoration as well as inclusive psychosocial development of vulnerable children. It also highlights the importance of nature-based interventions within urban sustainability and inclusion frameworks.