Not sure what to do with your children in the summer holidays? We've got you covered! Here are ten ways that children can learn about nature, while enjoying fresh air and time away from screens. Summer might seem long, but before we know it, they'll be back in the classroom. So soak up all the sun (with hats, sunscreen and reusable water bottles of course) and reconnect through nature.
Plant a seed: Kids can learn how plants grow by planting seeds and watching them sprout. They can also learn about the different types of plants and what conditions they need to grow.
Watering plants: Kids can help water the plants and learn about the importance of water for plant growth.
Harvesting: Kids can help harvest fruits and vegetables when they are ready. They can learn about the different parts of the plant that we eat and the nutritional value of different foods.
Identifying insects: Kids can observe insects in the garden and learn about the different types of bugs that live in the garden. They can also learn about which insects are beneficial for the garden and which ones are harmful.
Creating a scarecrow: Kids can make a scarecrow to scare away birds and other animals that might eat the plants.
Building a birdhouse: Kids can build a birdhouse and learn about the different types of birds that live in their area.
Painting rocks: Kids can paint rocks to decorate the garden and make it more colourful.
Making compost: Kids can help make compost by collecting food scraps and other organic materials. They can learn about the importance of compost for soil health and plant growth.
Drawing or journaling: Kids can draw or journal about their experiences in the garden, documenting the plants they have grown, the insects they have seen, and the things they have learned.
Overall, there are many fun and educational activities that kids can do in the garden. Gardening provides an opportunity for kids to learn about the natural world and develop important life skills:
Encourages healthy eating habits: When kids grow their own fruits and vegetables, they are more likely to try new foods and eat a wider variety of healthy foods. They'll also appreciate the effort it takes just to grow a tiny bit of food!
Promotes physical activity: Gardening is a physical activity that gets kids outdoors and moving. It can help improve their strength, coordination, and balance.
Teaches responsibility: Gardening requires kids to take care of plants and be responsible for their well-being. This can help them develop a sense of responsibility and accountability.
Builds environmental awareness: Gardening teaches kids about the natural world and how plants grow. It can help them develop a sense of environmental awareness and how our actions have a real impact on the environment.
Fosters creativity: Gardening allows kids to express their creativity by choosing plants and designing their garden.
Provides hands-on learning opportunities: Gardening provides a hands-on learning experience that can help kids understand concepts such as biology, ecology, and nutrition.
Builds confidence and self-esteem: Gardening can be a rewarding experience that helps kids develop a sense of accomplishment and boosts their self-esteem.
