parenting

 



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.

Contributed by www.Frugal-Moms.com Inc.

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PARENTS: WORK AT HOME. SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY.






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