Gardening Together

Gardening is a wonderful way to introduce kids to the surprises of nature.  Kids already have an attraction to the earth (be it sand, dirt, or mud pies.)  Gardening with your kids is an opportunity to discover the wonder of the earth, learn lessons, and make memories.

 

Gardening together:  growing plants, growing imagination, growing together.

 Kids take to gardening in many ways, and no one is quite alike.  Tailoring your expectations going in will go a long way in making it a fun experience for everyone.

Preschoolers:  This is all about play and fun.  Plant watermelon or apple seeds.  Pull a few weeds, or play with worms.  Watch ladybugs or ants crawl about – it is about learning and experiencing, not necessarily “accomplishing” anything.  Answer questions, tell stories about the life cycle of a seed… exploring the world together with a grownup is the name of this game.

Kindergarteners:  These little explorers see discovery and possibility everywhere.  Set up a small plot or flower pot of their own to plant and tend. Help them gather supplies to make their attempt a success, but lend a hand only when needed.

Elementary Age: Reading is fun!  Your child can read seed packets, make plant markers, and count out their own money at the gardening center.  Turn them loose on their own project and see what they can create – the doing is still the most important part.

Middle School: Here you an incorporate a little more planning and structure.  Kids can plan a garden on paper, planning in heights and colors, or making sure the cucumbers or squash have enough room to grow.  Building arbors or fences are in their realm of skills now, and they may find it fun to participate in a local fair or 4-H. 

Tweens and up:  If they’re not too “cool” to garden, Tweens might enjoy more community-focused projects, allowing them to indulge in chatting with friends while putting their green thumbs to work.  Gardening may give them a great opportunity for independent studies or biology projects for school.  Plant these green (thumb) seeds early, and you may grow a future botanist or at least a life-long gardener.