Are you ready to try gardening with your child this year? There are so many wonderful benefits to gardening with children of any age. Children often don’t really know where their food comes from or all of the work that goes into producing it. Gardening not only teaches children about the fruits and vegetables themselves, but also about responsibility, teamwork, independence and problem solving.
A few simple tips will help you get your garden started and reap the delicious fruits and vegetables throughout the season. When gardening with children it is a good idea to start small, and then gradually increase the size each year as their interest increases. Gardens can come in many forms, such as a raised bed, a small area right in the backyard or in pots and containers. Be sure to have some sturdy garden tools on hand. Adult plastic versions of the metal garden tools may be a safer option for young children. Loosen and prepare the dirt and add some compost to enrich the soil if you choose.
Keep the first garden plan simple. Children will take more interest and ownership if they have their own area of the family garden, so give each child their own small area to plant and care for. Be sure to allow plenty of space for walking paths to simplify weeding and harvest times, usually at least 24 inches. You can also use carpet squares or other markers so children know where they should walk so as not to crush the growing plants.
There are numerous options to plant in your first garden. Try to choose items that your children will be interested in watching grow as well as enjoy eating. Some good starters are sugar snap peas, carrots and lettuce and other leafy greens. Strawberries are a great fruit option in small gardens. Even herbs such as chives or basil can have a place in a small garden.
Don’t worry about having the perfect garden. Simply enjoy spending time with your children outdoors, in nature, growing some of the healthiest and most delicious vegetables and fruits your family has ever had.
4-C Early Childhood Blog 