Gardening is a fun and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, including children. Not only is it a great way for children to learn about nature and the environment, but it also helps kids to develop important life skills such as responsibility, patience and problem-solving.
If you’re keen to get your kids away from their screens and into the garden this year, follow our handy tried-and-tested tips.
Children are more likely to be interested in gardening if it’s presented as a fun and enjoyable activity. This can be done by creating a child-friendly garden space, using bright and colourful tools and allowing them to choose their own plants.
Children can become overwhelmed by large gardening projects, so it’s best to start small. Try giving them their own small plot of land to tend to or ask them to help with a small section of the garden.
Allowing children to be involved in the planning process of the garden will help to make it more engaging for them. Get them involved by having them help you choose the plants, lay out the garden and plan what they would like to grow.
Gardening is a great opportunity for children to explore the natural world. Encourage them to explore different plants, insects and other wildlife in the garden. Create a scavenger hunt with a list of things they might find in the garden and let them explore to their heart’s content.
Gardening can be a great opportunity for children to learn about different plants, how they grow and how to care for them. This can be done by taking the time to explain different gardening techniques and by answering any questions they may have.
Children will feel more invested in the garden if they feel like it is theirs. Allow them to take ownership of a small section of the garden and encourage them to take care of it.
Children love to feel like they are contributing and it gives them a sense of accomplishment. Assign them a task to do in the garden. This could be anything from watering plants to picking vegetables.
Gardening is a great activity to do as a family. This can help to create a sense of teamwork and it also allows children to see the benefits of working together.
Children are surrounded by technology, so why not use it to make gardening more interesting for them? There are many apps and websites that can help children learn about gardening and the different plants that can be grown. The RHS has a great resource area dedicated to activities families can enjoy in the garden, which is free to access.
Children love to be rewarded for their efforts. This could be in the form of a small prize or a simple ‘great work’ for a job well done.
By using these tips, you can help to encourage children to participate in gardening and to develop a love for nature and the environment. It’s also a great way for them to spend time outside, to connect with nature and to learn about the importance of taking care of our planet.
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