I remember my grandmother giving me a small garden space in the backyard and a packet of Cosmo seeds.  I was so elated with the results as the Cosmos grew into showy flowers attracting birds and beautiful butterflies.

Getting children interested in flowers or plants is a good way to teach them to love nature.  Working in a garden, a child can experience the satisfaction that comes from caring for something overtime, while observing the cycle of life first hand.  Gardening gives children a chance to learn an important life skill, one that is overlooked in a standard curriculum.  Gardening is also a great way to teach environmental awareness by exploring the workings of nature.

Whether you use raised beds, containers or ground plots, be sure to give each child his or her own separate plot. Keep it small for young kids.  Put there plots right in the middle of the action, with the best soil and light.  Set them up for success.

When giving garden tours to friends, be sure to point out the children’s beds.  Take a picture of their work and send it to friends and family.  The attention given to their work is the best motivator for children to stay involved with a project.