Gardening with Kids

Introducing a child to gardening makes a connection to nature that can last a lifetime

Two girls working in a raised bed filled with green leafy plants

A child comes running inside to deliver the good news: her sunflower seed has begun sprouting! She marvels at the magic of life and the world of plants. This connection to the land can inspire little ones to care for living things, learn to be responsible, get them outside, and experience joy and calm in an otherwise chaotic and ever-changing world.

Today’s children are experiencing increasingly sedentary lifestyles, attributed in part to more time spent indoors using electronic media¹. Without consistent time outside exploring in nature or engaging in physical activity, children are prone to developing chronic conditions that can persist into adulthood².

The term “nature-deficit disorder” was coined by author Richard Louv in his book “Last Child in the Woods,” which describes the lack of time spent in nature and the ramifications of this on physical and mental health. By inviting children to tend to a garden — or create their own garden — you can help fill this void. Showing them the wonders of growing their own food or witnessing a hummingbird visit can open their eyes to the awe of the great outdoors.

Not only that, but young children can have the opportunity to practice balance and fine motor skills, using tools and grasping seeds. Gardening can also provide sensory stimulation, such as with the textures of leaves and the smell of blooms or fresh earth. Gardens are full of rich color, and studies demonstrate the calming nature of green hues. Learn more in our article on Gardening for Wellness.

A small toddler attempts to pick up a huge yellow plastic bin in the garden. They have an adorable sun hat on.

Getting Started

First off — you don’t need a plot of land to be successful; a container garden works just as well. Provide kid-friendly tools that are appropriate for their age. Safety measures like a hat, sunscreen and bug spray should be used. Make sure to provide adequate water for hydration, especially on summer days.

Involve the children with the design of the garden, and see what types of plants they might like to grow. When choosing plants, those that grow and mature quickly are ideal for holding their interest, as are pretty flowers and edible options. Starting with plants that require less expertise can keep the process simple when gardening for the first time.

Some great garden ideas for kids include sensory gardens, vegetable gardens and cut-flower gardens. You can even make themed edible gardens, like pizza, salsa or salad, and grow the plants needed for each. Pollinator gardens and bird gardens make great wildlife-viewing opportunities. Miniature fairy gardens can be a fun, whimsical option. Indoor terrariums can also incite wonder.

Gardening Activities

Provide specific activities to encourage the feeling of accomplishment and prevent attention spans from wandering. You might cater different activities to different ages. For example, toddlers might play in the soil and make mud pies or look for bugs. Older kids can help with weeding, watering and mulching to start. Teach the children how to care for plants and what they need, like sunlight, nutrients and water. Assisting with planting and watching the first sprouts appear can be very rewarding.

Two little boys turn a rotating compost bin

Helping with compost piles can be beneficial in understanding the cycles of life. It is fascinating to learn how dead plant matter can be used to feed new life. Having kids add scraps to compost piles and witnessing the waste turn to plant food nurtures an understanding of sustainability that can be carried on to adulthood.

You can also foster cognitive development and help with decision-making skills by asking the child what they think should be done next when caring for the plants. Quiz them about the various kinds of plants and their differences. Ask open-ended questions and encourage curiosity.

Kids can also grow creatively with outdoor art projects. Try providing materials to paint rocks or signs for the garden. Decorating bird houses is another fun activity, as are journals or scrapbooks to log the progress of the garden. Reading books can be an excellent way to reinforce the ideas you share and the experiences they have in nature. Provide books with nature or gardening themes that encourage kids to get outside and explore.

When kids develop an appreciation for nature, they can go on to become stewards of the land and its resources. Interaction with the natural world creates more healthy, confident and environmentally friendly humans. It’s time to open up their world to something new, and lay the groundwork for future green thumbs.