Be Silly. Be honest. Be kind.
--Ralph Waldo Emerson
The Benefits of Gardening
with Kids:
The garden can teach us and our children profound lessons
about life and the world around us. Here are just a few of
the many benefits of gardening with your family:
-Science-
It teaches them about the lifecycle and the wonder of
nature, not to mention earth science and the effects we
have on our environment. Kids also get a first hand
account into the miracle of life trapped inside a single
seed- something to be discovered and cherished.
-Life 101-
Gardening offers a great opportunity to connect with
nature on a deeper level- by touching it, caring for it
and watching it grow. Gardening teaches the rythyms of the
seasons and the life cycle. The garden is life's lessons
in action- there is no telling or listening- only doing.
If they don't water the plants, they'll die. If they don't
tend the weeds, they'll take over. Though the lessons seem
small, it is the first step towards larger ideas and
responsibilities.
-Relaxation-
Gardening has also been shown to reduce stress- no matter
what your age. The quiet, calming effect of gardening can
soothe the stressed out or overstimulated child. Even
better, the garden appeals to all five of our senses- we
can see, touch, smell, hear, and even "taste" our garden.
The healing effects of gardening are well documented, and
are even being used in programs to help children of abuse
and/or broken homes to rebuild their self esteem.
-Spiritual lessons-
The spiritual nature of the garden is mentioned time and
again in Bible verses and in poems. Religious and
spiritual lessons are easily taught in the garden- after
all, time began in a garden!
-Family Time-
It's also a great time to connect with your kids. Let the
daily stresses of life melt away outside in your own
private retreat. Talk together, or work quietly along side
each other. But whatever you do, do it together. You never
know- you may rediscover your child in the backyard
pumpkin patch.
