Gardening with children is more than a pastime, itâs an opportunity to nurture wonder, responsibility, and hands-on learning. Whether youâre working with a single flowerpot on a balcony or planting a backyard vegetable bed, the garden is a space for kids to explore nature and develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.
Children love activities that allow them to dig, splash, or just get their hands dirty. You can allow these fun moments to build into valuable experiences. Planting can teach patience and planning, watering can foster responsibility and schedule management, and harvesting offers the satisfaction of seeing effort turn into results. Plus, time spent in nature can improve mood, focus, and even academic performance.
If youâre looking to entertain kids this growing season, try some of the following activities:
1. Water play station
In a small corner of your yard or balcony, set up a station for toddlers to scoop, pour, and splash! They can water plants, mix mud, or explore how water moves through soil. While it might seem like just fun, it also helps develop fine motor skills and an early connection to the outdoors.
2. DIY bug hjotel
Bug hotels are a fantastic addition to any garden. You can build a space for various bugs to shelter through the heat of the day or overnight. All you need is materials from around the yard or home, such as pinecones, cardboard tubes, twigs, and dried grass. Itâs a great way to discuss garden biodiversity and talk about the role insects play in pollination and pest control.
3. Garden scavenger hunt
This activity is easy to start as it requires little to no planning and can be effortlessly adjusted for different ages. Create a list of colors, shapes, textures, or specific plants and creatures to find in the garden. Younger children can find easy things like something fuzzy or something that smells sweet, while older kids can search for pollinators or signs of pests on foliage.
4. Seed germination
Seed germination is a classic introduction to plant science and a great hands-on activity! To start, children pick a seed to place inside a damp paper towel. Then the damp paper towel, with seed safely tucked inside, should be placed in a plastic bag or jar. Put the baggies or jars near a sunny window and encourage kids to observe changes each day.
With a few simple tools and a lot of curiosity, you can create a space for everyone in your garden.
Submit gardening questions to [email protected] or call 719-520-7684. The in-person help desk is open 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Visit elpaso.extension.colostate.edu and register for upcoming classes at epcextension.eventbrite.com.
