Gardening has numerous health benefits. Not only is it a positive form of relatively low-impact exercise, it involves being out in the fresh air, engaging with nature, and being productive. These are all qualities and activities children can benefit from. When it comes to the best gardening ideas for kids, it’s all about enjoyment and engagement. Getting children to engage with nature is a powerful thing and a positive way to get them away from screens and video games and get them outside.
Planting Seeds
Gardening with kids is a rewarding experience. You get to spend time with them in a happy and healthy environment, as well as witness their interest and enjoyment in the process. When it comes to getting a child interested in gardening initially, it is always a positive thing for them to be able to see the fruits of their labor from the very roots. Having them plant seeds is an excellent way for them to understand the process of gardening from start to finish. From planting, covering, watering, putting the seeds in the sun, and watching them grow, they see the magic of gardening and experience the thrill of caring for something and watching it grow. For planting seeds, large seeds are the best and easiest for little hands to handle; sunflower and nasturtium seeds are ideal.
Planting Vegetables
Another great aspect of gardening with kids is to plant vegetables from seed or seedlings and watch them grow. This allows them to experience another avenue of gardening as they can enjoy the growing process, and then enjoy the pleasure of consuming and sharing the vegetables they have grown afterwards. Children particularly enjoy picking, shelling, and eating peas. Digging out carrots and potatoes are also very rewarding for their curious hands to unearth.
When it comes to gardening ideas for kids, think of what brings you the most pleasure. From planting flowers from seeds to growing vegetables, these are both areas of gardening with rich rewards. Through gardening, children learn to appreciate and respect nature and all that it has to offer. Planting flower seeds in the garden or in pots are great ways for children to enjoy their efforts. Getting them to make their own markers is also a fun way to get them involved in gardening. Paint stir sticks or popsicle sticks can be decorated with their names or pictures so they can proudly proclaim ownership of the stirrings beneath and above the dirt.
