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It's time for a gardening project!
Why, you ask?
A gardening project is a no brainer!
But if you need a little more convincing, read iHomeschool Network’s article on the benefits of a homeschool gardening project here.
Convinced?!
Here’s how to begin:
1. Read and learn all about the basics of gardening with kids using the resources below. Parents should read through these resources first and then go over them with the kids.
Visit and read Gardening With Children by eartheasy.com for excellent tips on how to garden with kids. This website and blog was developed by a family whose mission is to help people improve their quality of life by teaching readers about sustainable living.
The list at the bottom of the article gives links to several highly informative, kid friendly resources on gardening developed by the University of Illinois. I've copied my favorites below.
They’ll teach beginners all they need to get started and offer new insights to experienced gardeners too.
My First Garden guides you and your kids of any age through the process of planting a garden from start to finish.
For a more challenging read, The Great Plant Escape is a more scientific resource on gardening that teaches everything anyone would ever need to know about plants. Visit the Teacher’s Guide first, then go through the site to decide how much you’d like to review with your kids. This resource is for older children.
A final must read is The Adventures of Herman the Worm. This teaches kids about the vital relationship between earthworms and healthy soil.
You’ll never think about earthworms in the same way again!
2. Depending on where you live (i.e. city or country, type of climate) work with the kids to decide what kind of gardening project is best for your family. If it’s a new activity, start small. Otherwise, build on gardening projects you’ve already done.
3. After initial planting is done, set up a gardening maintenance calendar with the kids, and mark a date for completion of your goal. This an important anchor to the project. When will the crops or plants be ready? What will you cook with them? Will you give them away?
Be as creative as possible!
;)
