More than a life skill! Why gardening with kids is worth the dirt and mess

If you thought gardening is all about seeds, saplings and getting your hands dirty, think again! Research has time and again pointed out the far-reaching benefits of cultivating, tending and growing plants with children. Be it flowers, herbs, fruits or vegetables, the practice of gardening can help them gain confidence, be resilient and have patience - qualities that are useful for life. Early exposure to mother nature will also ensure that your little one has a better perspective of life and understands the value of hardwork, focus, dedication, perseverance and appreciation - all of which can immensely support their mental health and overall well-being.

If the above makes you wonder… “But where’s the space to plant flowers and vegetables in crammed urban locales?” Mind you, gardening doesn’t always require a  shady backyard. You can begin with a small patch on your balcony or even a row of pots on the windowsill. The idea is to involve and engage children in the activity of setting up a garden at home or school, rather than just making them watch or observe from a distance. Participation is key here, experts reiterate. What begins with them being curious about: How does it all work? What constitutes the soil? How does a plant grow? What are saplings? Why do seeds come in different shapes and sizes? - eventually motivates them to get their hands dirty, create a green space of their own and take care of it too.

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Although things can get a bit messy and chaotic at times, gardening is considered one of the most sensorial and rewarding experiences for young children. It’s a fun and interesting practice that packs invaluable life lessons for them. Gardening enhances one’s creativity, while also improving their problem-solving and decision-making skills. 

It’s important to note here that while learning about different varieties of plants is fascinating, our little gardeners should also be simultaneously acquainted with other important components of gardening that include soil and drainage; watering and sunlight; as well as the tools used in the activity. 

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Here’s a list of fruits, vegetables and houseplants that you can grow at home with your little ones…

• Veggies: radishes, carrots, peas, cherry tomatoes, chilies, spinach, lettuce, fenugreek leaves, mint and coriander, etc. 

• Fruits: strawberries, lime, orange, pomegranate, figs and guava, etc.

• Houseplants: money plant, snake plant, coleus, areca palm, aloe vera, jade plant, succulents and holy basil, etc.

• Blooms: bougainvillea, petunias, marigolds, geraniums, portulaca, periwinkle and hibiscus, etc.