By: Nikki Phipps

Children love nearly anything pertaining to the great outdoors. They love digging in the dirt, creating yummy treats, and playing in trees. Children are curious by nature, and there is no greater joy than that from a child who has cultivated plants from his or her own garden. Kids enjoy planting seeds, watching them sprout, and eventually harvesting what they have grown. Allowing children to become involved in the planning, caring, and harvesting of a garden not only gives parents a unique opportunity to spend time with their children, but it helps the kids develop an understanding of that which they are curious about - nature. Children also develop a sense of responsibility and pride in themselves which can ultimately improve self-esteem.

One of the best ways to encourage enthusiasm for gardening is appealing to a child’s senses by adding plants not only for the eyes but those with which they can taste, smell, and touch. Vegetables are always a good choice for young children. They not only germinate quickly but can be eaten once they have matured. Vegetables that are easy to grow such as beets, carrots, radishes, and tomatoes are good choices to include in the garden.

Of course, children love to snack; include favorites like cherry tomatoes, strawberries, or peas. You might consider implementing a fence or trellis for vine-growing vegetables or even a small sitting area where children can snack on their favorite treats. Kids also enjoy plants that offer unique shapes such as eggplant or gourds. After harvesting, gourds can be decorated and used as birdhouses. To add interest and color to the vegetable garden, you might want to add some flowers such as marigolds and nasturtiums.

Herbs are another option; try adding mint or dill. Keep away from any plant that may be poisonous, however, and teach kids to eat from only those they know are safe. Flowers and herbs not only add spectacular colors and interest in the vegetable garden but can appeal to a child’s sense of smell as well. Sunflowers, zinnias, and numerous other flowers may also attract butterflies and hummingbirds to the garden. Children love to touch soft, fuzzy plants. Appeal to these needs with plants such as lamb’s ear or cotton. Don’t forget sounds; adding unique features such as water fountains, windmills, and chimes will often spark additional interest in a child.