|
Most kids love to care and nurture small things like
kittens, puppies and plants. Encouraging their natural
interest in growing things can lead to a life-long passion
for gardening! Here are some tips to help "cultivate"
their interest:
Kids love "pet-able" plants that feel soft
to the touch! A lacy fern might fill the bill.
Cacti can be fascinating to children and require little
care. But children should be warned to stay away from
spines. It is probably best that they observe these
plants from afar!
Growing simple seeds like beans in a Styrofoam cup
is a favorite activity. Let the child decorate the cup
with glitter, ribbons, paint, buttons and markers.
Growing bulbs in an unused glass terrarium (without
the glass top) can help the child learn about root systems.
These can be grown in the winter with the added bonus
of winter flowers!
Growing herbs in pots can also be fun! Not only can
the child see the plants grow, but they can help you
use the herbs in wonderful dishes from your kitchen!
Give your child the responsibility to care for an indoor
plant. As with a kitten or puppy, they are responsible
for the care and feeding of that plant. Praise the child
when the plant is doing well or discuss the reasons
why the plant may not be doing well. This exercise provides
a great opportunity to discuss the life cycle with your
child.
The simple act of growing can be an introduction to
a larger world for your child. The lessons of environmental
responsibility, the growth cycle and the principle of
sowing and reaping can all be shared as we allow our
children to nurture a small living plant. And, as your
child will learn, as you sow - so will you reap! |
