The benefits of gardening for your children
of reading
In this digital age, many parents are desperate to get their children away from screens. Gardening is not just an alternative, it's a school of life .
More than just a pastime, getting your hands dirty teaches your child patience , stimulates their fine motor skills , and develops their sense of responsibility . It's the ideal activity for building strong bonds and creating lasting memories.
But where to begin? What activities are suitable for little hands? Let us guide you.
1. Three reasons to give your child a plant
🌱 Disconnecting from the virtual world, reconnecting with reality
Once a natural part of life, our connection to the land has become a luxury. It's crucial to remind our children that radishes don't grow in plastic bags at the supermarket. Gardening is about understanding the cycle of life, the seasons, and the origins of our food.
🎓 A school of responsibility (Montessori Method)
Entrusting a plant to a child is entrusting them with a living being . It's a rewarding mission.
- If he forgets to water it, the plant will wilt (immediate consequence).
- If he takes care of it, it will bloom (a rewarding reward).
This cause-and-effect relationship is far more powerful than any theoretical lesson.
🧘 Managing emotions
Gardening is a calming activity. Handling the soil, smelling the scents, observing the slow growth... It's an excellent way to channel the energy of hyperactive or anxious children.
2. Activity No. 1: The Magic of Lenses (Ages 3 and up)
It's a classic, and for good reason: it's foolproof and ultra-fast. Perfect for impatient children!
The equipment:
- A small bowl or saucer.
- Cotton.
- Dried lentils (green or coral).
- A spray bottle (the key tool!).
The method:
- Place the cotton at the bottom of the bowl.
- Scatter the lentils over it.
- Ask your child to "make it rain" with the spray bottle to wet the cotton.
- Place it near a window. In 48 hours, the magic happens!
Children's favorite tool
For a child, a watering can can be heavy and the dosage difficult to control (flooding guaranteed!). A spray bottle is the ideal solution.
- 💦 Fun: They love activating the "pschitt" mechanism.
- 🧠 Motor skills: Excellent exercise to strengthen the little fingers.
- 🛡️ Safety: It's impossible to drown the plant, it's a gentle mist.
3. Activity No. 2: The Giant Avocado (Ages 6+)
For older children, capable of engaging in a long-term project. The goal is to grow a real little tree from the pit of yesterday's guacamole!
Clean the pit, insert three toothpicks into the sides, and place it on a glass of water (the bottom of the pit should be submerged). You will need to change the water regularly. This is an excellent lesson in perseverance : nothing will happen for weeks, then suddenly, a root will appear!
4. Give them real tools, not toys
Maria Montessori said: "The child is not a vessel to be filled, but a spring to be released." To empower them, there's nothing like giving them "grown-up" materials.
Instead of buying a flimsy plastic watering can that will end up in the trash, opt for a small metal one. By handling a precious and aesthetically pleasing object, the child instinctively learns to take care of their belongings .
To be like the grown-ups
Our copper watering can is often a favorite with families. Its modest size makes it easy for children as young as 5 or 6 to handle.
- 💪 Unbreakable: Stainless steel designed to last.
- ✨ Empowering: The child is proud to use "mum/dad's beautiful watering can".
- 🎯 Precise: Its fine beak teaches you to aim accurately (in the pot, not next to it!).
Ready to plant the little seed?
To encourage your budding gardeners, we are offering you a special discount.
> Choosing your first tool <