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5 Fun and Easy Gardening Projects to Do With Your Kids

Kids in the garden

Getting your kids involved in the garden doesn’t have to be a hassle or take a lot of time or money.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

1 - Make a garden journal

Journaling is a great way to record successes and failures and is an enjoyable way for kids to track their garden's progress. They can describe the changes they see, draw pictures of the different stages of plants as they grow, record the weather, and even collect a flower or leaf to tape inside the pages. You can use a ready-made journal or make your own.

2 - Colorful plant markers

You can make these out of all sorts of items around the house: popsicle sticks, stones, plastic or wooden spoons. Color with markers. Can be labeled with the plant name or simply a picture. If you are making them for outdoor gardens, consider weather-proofing them with a paint sealer.

3 - Handprint Stepping stones

This is a great way for your child to add some personalized decoration to the garden, something you will treasure. You can find a kit or DIY recipe to make the mold. Have your child make their handprint and press in sequins, gems, or beads. Allow to dry and harden. Have them paint their stepping stone. Consider coating it with a paint sealer if it will be exposed to the elements.

4 - Tin Can Planter

Using a clean tin can with the label removed, create drainage holes in the bottoms with a hammer and nail. Allow your child to paint the outside and get as creative as they'd like decorating them. Fill with individual flowers and hang on a fence for a fun, creative look.

5 - Water Station for Pollinators

Creating a water station for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators will attract them to your garden and encourage them to stay longer. You can use a bowl or shallow dish and place a layer of colorful glass gems, small rocks, or marbles. Fill with water, just enough to sit below the gems but not cover them. This will provide stepping stones for the beneficial insects to safely get a drink without drowning. Kids will love watching visitors enjoy their water station.

These ideas are only the beginning. Observe which parts of gardening your child is drawn to and play to their interests. Feel free to get creative and ask them what they think would be fun. They might surprise you with their ideas, and you’ll have a lot of fun making memories together in the garden.