Let it Grow: Plant with Your Toddler

Spring time has come! The weather now allows for much needed outside time for the little ones and the parents. I live in a townhouse with limited yard space so we love the park. However, going to the park is not always feasible. So, planting with the little ones turned out to be a great outside structured activity. It helps teach them about science, nature and taking care of things. 

What you need:

Small shovel - $1.00 Target

Dirt (the dirt in the yard works just fine!) - Free

Plastic bucket with plastic shovel - $1.00 Target

Pack of Seeds - $1.00 Most places

Small metal bucket - $1.00 Target

Cup of water - Free

First choose seeds wisely. You will need hearty seeds that don't require much depth and grow well in most soil types. We went with blue flowers that grow well in pots, most soil types and like full sun. You could also do herbs such as cilantro or basil. 

Next, dig some dirt. Let the little ones help if possible. Put the dirt into the plastic bucket and insert shovel. It is best to use dirt from the ground for this to avoid exposing your little ones to pesticides and/or plant food that is commonly found in commercial soil mixes. 

Then, let the little ones fill metal bucket with soil about 1/2 full. Add the seeds and put a little more soil on top. The bucket should be ~3/4 full at this point. 

Last, water it and put it in the sun! Be sure to explain everything while planting. I do realize a toddler will not grasp the full concept, but it is good for their brain to hear you talk to them and explain each step. 

Let your toddler water the plant daily. Make it their plant they need to care for. Toddlers love to have some responsibility and they love to mimic mommy and daddy. Put a small empty watering can where they can reach it. When you water plants everyday let your little one get the their watering can and do it too!

Helpful hints: 

*A vinyl tablecloth on the porch will help catch spills and can be shook out once done.

*Plants done by the little ones make great gifts for grandparents. 

*You can decorate and reuse household items, such as yogurt containers or coffee containers, instead of buying a metal bucket.

Rebekah, Esme and Tate enjoying planting on the back porch!