Whether you’re planning on starting a garden or have been a gardener for years, there are some things you can do to make gardening more enjoyable for you and your children.
You can get your children involved in small and simple projects, and you can learn how to engage them in the gardening process so that they become lifelong fans of the activity.
Teaching Children The Joys Of Gardening Can Spark A Lifelong Interest
Taking your kids outdoors is a sure fire way to boost their physical, cognitive and emotional well being.
Teaching them the ins and outs of gardening is one way to do it. In turn, they will learn the importance of taking pride in your work and a little forethought goes a long way in developing lifelong habits.
They will become better listeners and be more likely to try new foods when they know they have grown it themselves. It’s also a good way to make them feel special.
As you can imagine, teaching them about the various gardening nuances is a whole lot of fun. It’s even more fun when they get to see what they have produced.
They can enjoy the scent of freshly cut grass and the taste of a homegrown tomato. It’s a fun family activity to do together. It can also provide a great backdrop for some quality family photos.
The best part of gardening is watching your kids get excited about the process. While they are at it, you’ll learn more about your child’s interests and preferences. In the end, you’ll have a happy family. And, you’ll be the envy of all your neighbors!
Small And Simple Gardening Projects For Children
Keeping a garden is a wonderful way to bond with your kids and also a great way to teach your children about nature and protect the environment.
When you first start gardening with your child, be sure to choose a small and simple garden. You can start with a small seed or a starter plant. Your child will love to see their plants grow. You may even want to build a special bed in the garden for them.
If your child loves gardening, be sure to invite him or her to help you. This is an important activity that will improve their physical and mental wellbeing. Your child will learn about plants and insects, and will develop sensory skills.
Create a Mini Greenhouse
Using recycled materials, you can make a mini greenhouse that is perfect for the yard or patio. This craft is easy to do and can be customized to your budget. It is a great project to do during rainy days.
Create a Butterfly Feeder
To create a butterfly feeder, you will need a jar, string, and butterfly food. You can also make a wormery, which is a great hands-on activity that teaches your kids about composting and life skills. You can compost coffee grounds, shredded paper, and fruit peels.
Create a Fairy Door
Another good garden project is to make a fairy door. If your child is into crafts, you can use an ice cream tub, cardboard, or a plastic bottle as a door.
Teaching Your Child about Seeds
When you are planting seeds, be sure to talk to your child about the differences between seeds. It is also a good idea to have a magnifying glass with you so that you can study each seed.
If your child is particularly interested in plants, consider having them make a paper seed packet. You can use leftover seeds, or you can design a packet for your next year’s planting. You can also make a seed mandala.
It is also a good idea to make homemade jellies and pickles. Your child will enjoy the taste of homegrown vegetables. They will also learn about the importance of rich, organic soil.
Engaging Gardening Activities For Children
Besides giving them a chance to explore nature, a garden can help kids develop skills that they will use throughout their lives.
Efforts Pay Off
Children enjoy seeing their efforts pay off. In fact, experts say that children who garden perform better in science. Whether it’s helping to plant, weeding, or harvesting, children can learn that a healthy plant needs clean soil and water.
Kids Produce Food
A garden also teaches kids the benefits of a balanced diet and they can learn about the vitamins and nutrients plants provide. They can also learn about composting, which is a way to turn organic matter into a fertile soil.
Pay Attention to Insects
While you’re learning about plants and their roots, you can also learn about insects. A good way to do this is with a magnifying glass. You can also read books about them. Eventually, your child will have questions about the seeds you’re planting.
Get Them Do What They Love to Do
Young children are generally drawn to big, brightly colored flowers. They also like plants that make a lot of noise. Luckily, wild flowers are easy to find in the market.
For younger children, a small garden in a raised bed is ideal. This will keep them from climbing over the plants and from walking on them.
Older children can take on more physical tasks. They can help haul bags of soil or watering cans. They can also develop their own plan for the garden. This will help them develop their drafting skills or their passion for landscaping.
You can incorporate gardening activities for children into your backyard or even in your school. Having kids in the garden is a powerful way to bring culture into education.
You can use the garden as a platform for discussing topics such as sunshine, photosynthesis, and classifying. Your child will ask more questions and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them.
Final Word
Gardening with kids can be an avenue for learning, bonding, and fun. It gives both the adult and the child an opportunity to explore new things and create something meaningful.
With the right planning, organization, and supplies, the list can become an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all involved. When the garden is completed, it can be a place of beauty to enjoy together as a family.
