Kids can benefit from gardening as much as adults. It’s a great way to get some perspective and learn about the miracle of nature. Gardening is also a wonderfully sensory activity so very stimulating for all children, and particularly beneficial for those with sensory impairment. With all the summer sights and smells, what better time of year to get back outside? Discover together the local fauna, and invite some furry friends over. Start a vegetable or herb patch in your yard, to teach them about where food comes from. The possibilities really are endless! Here are some tips for gardening with kids this summer.
Speedy Seeds
Young kids tend to have a shorter attention span, so it might be a good idea to get some summer seeds that will grow quickly. Some examples include salad, cress, and sunflowers. You can start them off by the kitchen window so to get them interested early, then move them outside. Here are some more tips on how to get your seeds started on your window sill. Get some kid-size tools for them so when they’re ready they can play outside. Make sure your tools and equipment are in good condition and safe to use. It’s also a good time of year to do some basement and garage maintenance. It might be time for a garage door upgrade as well, click for more.
Vegetables
There are plenty of options if you would like to plant things like a herb garden or vegetables, great for summer as well. You can get seeds delivered right to your door. Take a look at a selection of summer vegetables available online to try or if you’re a little apprehensive try some more low maintenance species. Spring and summer are the best seasons to get planting as you will be able to spend more time in the sun enjoying the results.
Local Wildlife
Research the fauna in your region and see what little visitors you can attract. Some species of birds and squirrels will be migrating your way this time of year so you’ll get to welcome lots of new friends into your yard. Make your own bird-feeder out of recycled materials such as a plastic bottle. Birds eat a range of different things such as mealworms and grains, but they also like lots of things you can already find in your kitchens such as granola, apples, bananas, eggshells, and cooked pasta and rice. You can get rid of your organic waste while giving them a tasty treat.
Follow-up Projects
Keep their interest by setting up little projects to record the results of your efforts. Encourage your kids to make a scrapbook or online diary for example. They can then share this with their friends and neighbors, even while they’re stuck at home. Think of fun creative ways to get them interested like by upcycling household items to make plant pots and other decorations. They’ll be busy in the yard all day, so don’t forget the sun cream!
This is a contributed post.