There are many ways to spend time with our kids outside.  Gardening will enrich your lives, the lives of your kids, and will teach them to be eco-friendly. To begin, talk to your children about the importance of responsible gardening and the impact we all have on our earth and the environment.

Here are some tips on how to get your kids involved in the outdoors:
  • Build a compost bin – Learn to fertilize your own yard and reduce waste by starting a compost bin
    • Give your children their own area – By letting a child make the decision on what to plant he or she will be more inclined to want to take care of it. Teach them pride of ownership.
    • Tools of the Trade – There are many different gardening tools offered in kids’ sizes. Gloves, shovels, rakes, boots, etc. are a great way to peak their interest. Everyone, both young and old, enjoys having the right tool for the tasks at hand.
    • Plant an herb garden – This will teach your child not only about gardening but how to incorporate what we grow into something healthy to eat. That is a double bonus!
    • Attract butterflies – Plant a garden that will attract butterflies. They are beautiful to watch and a vital part or our ecological quality – we need them for pollination!! Planting butterfly bushes and salvia are a great way to start.
    • Plan your planting together – Letting your kids help with the plans of what to plant will empower them. It will also give you as a parent the opportunity to sit down and discuss the different types of plants and how best to utilize the space you have devoted to planting.
    • Document your fun – Take pictures and perhaps make a scrap book. Recording your children’s hard work will make them proud.
    • Don’t forget to play – Let the young ones play in the dirt too. Even spraying a little water on each other is part of the fun. By making gardening enjoyable your kids will be more likely to appreciate all this knowledge they will be soaking up.

    These are just a few suggestions. There are countless things you can do to incorporate children into your gardening activities. We would like to hear your suggestions. Email us at kids@fast-growing-trees.com