Gardening is a wonderful activity for children to engage in. Not only is it a great way to spend time outdoors, but it also teaches children valuable lessons about responsibility, patience, and caring for the environment. In this Jardinopia Journal, we will discuss how to get children involved in gardening by painting plant pots and planting vegetable seeds.
Benefits of Gardening for Children
Before we get started, let’s talk about some of the benefits of gardening for children. Gardening can help children develop an appreciation for nature and the environment. It can also promote healthy eating habits by exposing them to fresh fruits and vegetables. Gardening can also be a therapeutic activity that helps children reduce stress and anxiety.
Preparing for the Activity
To get started, you will need to gather some supplies. Here is a list of supplies you will need:
- Old Plant pots
- Paints and paintbrushes
- Potting Soil
- Fruit and Vegetable seeds
- Watering can or spray bottle
- Garden tools
Step-by-Step Instructions for Painting Plant Pots
- Start by choosing the plant pots you want to paint. You can use any type of plant pots…
- Clean the pots with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Allow the pots to dry completely.
- Set up a painting area with newspapers or a drop cloth to protect the surface.
- Give each child a pot and let them paint it with their chosen colours and designs. You can be super creative – try painting what you’re going to grow on the pot or finger paint something!
- Allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding.
Choosing the right Seeds for children
When choosing vegetable seeds for kids to plant, it is important to select seeds that are easy to grow and maintain. Some good options include:
Tomato’s
Carrots
Lettuce
Beans
Strawberries
Cucumbers
Step-by-Step Instructions for Planting Seeds
- Fill the painted plant pots with soil, leaving about an inch of space at the top. Using a trowel is advised!
- Follow the instructions on the seed packet for how deep to plant the seeds.
- Water the soil with a watering can or spray bottle.
- Label the pots so you know what is growing
- Place the plant pots in a sunny spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight a day.
- Water the plants regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
Don’t forget to have plenty of biscuits on hand for your little helpers!
Garden Maintenance Tips for Kids
Encourage your children to take care of their plants by watering them regularly and removing any dead leaves or weeds. You can also teach them how to use garden tools, we’ve just launched a new range of childrens garden tools and garden wear for children aged 3-6 years old. To view the range click here, this same range can be seen being used in the photos by our little helper Darcy – doesn’t she look adorable in the sun hat that is part of our Little Nature Explorers range.
Gardening with children can be a fun and rewarding activity for both parents and kids. By painting plant pots and planting vegetable seeds, children can learn valuable skills and develop a love for nature and the environment. So why not grab some supplies and get started today?
