Fun in the Garden with Your Toddler.
Spring is here!
It’s time to get outside and play in the dirt. Gardening is with your child. From planning your garden to choosing which foods to grow, every step of the way is a teachable moment. If you want your child to develop a love for nutritious whole foods, there’s no better way to start them on a path to healthy eating, like teaching them how to grow food. Parents who try gardening know that children who participate in garden projects with their kids see an increased interest in eating fresh fruits and vegetables throughout their lives.Plan Your Garden
Planting a simple garden should be enjoyable for you and your child. Start with a small corner of the yard and plant a few veggies or create a container garden on your front porch. It’s a great way to start a mini garden with less mess.
The Right Tools for the Job
Child-sized rakes, watering cans, spades, and gloves will make them feel like a big kid. Alternatively, you can grab some measuring cups and old spoons from your kitchen and start digging away.
Tag You’re It
Have your children make garden tags for the veggies. If you have a toddler, let them ‘draw’ the veggie or fruit on a piece of paper, glue to popsicle sticks, cover with a baggie in case of rain, then stick them in the dirt. Kids love seeing their artwork displayed.
Benefits of Gardening with Your Kids
Besides the bounty of yummy snacks they’ll harvest, gardening can increase observation skills and attention spans, encourage cooperation, and improve motor skills through digging and watering activities. Bonus, learning new gardening terms will expand their vocabulary.
Every Child Grows at Their Own Pace
Some children will love growing plants; others will love watching ladybugs or making up songs about gardening. All of this is progress. Be patient. Every year will be a different gardening experience to treasure with your child.
Ready, Set, Start
Starters are small container plants you can buy from your local nursery that already have a small plant growing. These are good for tiny hands to hold. Include easy foods to pick and eat right off the plant, like cherry tomatoes and strawberries.
You Reap What You Sow
When it’s time to harvest the delicious fruits of your labor, be sure to prepare a meal with your child to show off all their hard work. This will instill a sense of pride and excitement about next year’s garden adventure.
You Reap What You Sow
When it’s time to harvest the delicious fruits of your labor, be sure to prepare a meal with your child to show off all their hard work. This will instill a sense of pride and excitement about next year’s garden adventure.
Summary
Growing a garden with your toddler provides lots of benefits like time together, healthier food choices that last for a lifetime of healthy eating. Toddlers who eat more fruits and vegetables are less likely to be constipated making the ‘go’ more comfortable resulting in an easier potty training experience. Try this recipe for a constipation prevention smoothie Click HERE to Learn how Pinky Bear can provide additional tools to help your child potty train successfully.
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