Gardening With Kids

Last week Goddard’s lessons focused on Mother Earth and plants. We are celebrating spring and it would be a good opportunity to plant a garden with your little ones. Here are some of the many skills and knowledge your child will experience in the garden.

• Your child will learn about the environment, plants and what plants need to grow
• Your child will build confidence and a sense of accomplishment when they see their garden grow.
• They will learn responsibility, planting seeds, watering, weeding and finally harvesting their plants, or vegetables.

Where to start:

Let your child pick out their own seeds or plants at their local garden center. If you really want to get your child into gardening buy them their own tools, gloves and watering can. Establish a little area of the yard, or your existing garden, just for your child.

Next comes the fun, show your child how to plant the flower or seeds in their garden. Kids love this part because they get a chance to play in dirt! When they are done planting, it’s time to play with water by watering the new plants. Watering is sure to be a favorite for most children.

What to plant

1. Sunflowers are a great choice because of their height
2. If your child really likes to help out in the kitchen how about an herb garden
3. If you decide to grow vegetables, pick vegetables they already like to eat. Also carrots and strawberries always peek a child’s interest.
4. Plant a Pizza Garden – grow tomatoes, herbs, peppers etc. and then make a pizza with all the ingredients.

Always supervise your child in the garden so they stay safe. Happy gardening from Goddard!