5 Benefits of Gardening with Children

July 1, 2021

1. Engages all the Senses – From the striking smell of green peppers to the soft scent of roses in bloom, introducing  children to gardening also introduces them to a world of sensory stimulation. Let them touch rough seeds, feel different kinds of soil, pull weeds, dig in the dirt, carry the water can, and taste the fruits of their labour in the form of veggies or fresh herbs straight from the garden.

 

2. Teaches Responsibility – If you neglect it – it will wither. Tending a garden helps teach children how to take care of other living things. Give your children an easy task, such as watering certain plants on a daily or weekly basis. Let them take the initiative but complete the task together if your child is too young to do them on their own. Be sure to celebrate tiny victories as your plants or flowers start to bloom. As a side note, teaching with plants is a great way to ready kids for the responsibility of owning a pet.

3. Fine Motor Skills – As children help you plant, rake, sow and water their way to a bountiful home or outdoor garden, they are developing the same fine motor skills as are required to do activities such as turning pages, writing, buttoning up clothing, etc. Practice these skills with your child by encouraging them to handle small seeds and pick berries, push the wheelbarrow and use gardening tools, bend over and balance to avoid stomping on any newly planted seeds.

4. Promotes Patience – Nothing encourages patience like waiting for a garden to come to life. We’re all so used to instant gratification – and so are our kids  – that patience doesn’t quite come as naturally as it once did. Gardening with your children is a great opportunity to remind yourself and teach the next generation that some things are worth the wait.

5. Encourages Healthy Eating – Researchers have found significant improvement in nutritional knowledge and vegetable identification, when classroom learning was enhanced by gardens established at the school. Knowing where our food comes from arms us with the knowledge to make healthier choices. Start talking with your kids about healthy foods vs. unhealthy foods and then plant some of your favorites. Once your herbs or produce is ready, use them in a tasty dish to drive home the importance of eating healthy, well-balanced meals.

 

Getting Ready for School!Bug Sensory Play