World Children’s Day: Cultivating Joy and Growth

Hey there, gardeners! As we gather up our tools and prepare for late-season planting, a special holiday is also approaching - World Children’s Day! This day is an occasion not only to celebrate the importance of nurturing gardens, but also the young minds and hearts that will one day inherit our green spaces.

The Importance of Play 

Children naturally flourish through exploration and play, just like a garden thrives with sunlight and hydration. Celebrated annually on November 20th, World Children’s Day emphasizes the rights and well-being of children worldwide. It’s also a time to reflect on how we can create ideal environments—both indoors and out—to support their growth.

Picture your child discovering the joy of digging their hands into soil, planting seeds for the first time, and watching them grow. Gardening is a fantastic way to teach the little ones about responsibility, patience, and the value of connecting with nature. They will learn about life cycles, and witness firsthand how tiny seeds transform into vibrant plants in our gardens.

As gardeners, we know seedlings require the right soil, adequate watering, and protection from harsh elements. Similarly, children need a safe environment, access to quality education, and the freedom to develop their potential. They need a chance to grow, and an environment where they are free to make mistakes, learn from them, and ultimately thrive (like plants in the garden)! 

Gardening Activities for Kids

To get the little ones planting, check out my recommendations for a few fun gardening activities that can engage children and spark their love for the outdoors:

Miniature Gardens

The kiddos love this one—encourage them to create their own miniature garden! Let them choose their favorite plants—some easy options are colorful blooms or easy-to-care-for succulents. Letting them create their own green space not only fosters creativity, but also gives them a sense of ownership as well. 

Scavenger Hunt

Next time you’re in the garden with the kids, turn it into an exciting scavenger hunt. Make a list of items for the little ones to find—like different types of flowers, plants, or even insects. This will help sharpen their observational and directional skills, while helping them develop an appreciation for nature’s biodiversity.

Seed Bombs

Yet another fantastic way for kids to get creative and connect with nature is to make seed bombs. Mix compost, clay, and flower seeds, roll them into small balls, and let them dry. Tell your children to bury or toss their seed bombs into patches of garden soil. They will be rewarded with a surprise garden space that will bloom later!

Education Through Gardening

Beside getting your hands dirty and working with plants, gardening is also a fantastic activity for education. Get your kids involved early, and they will learn valuable life skills. 

You can teach them about photosynthesis and the role of pollinators, and even set up a small bug hotel to attract these beneficial insects. Consider discussing with kids the importance of sustainable practices, like utilizing rainwater for irrigation or composting kitchen waste. These habits will teach them to care for the planet while tending to their plants.

You can also consider hosting a community gardening event on World Children’s Day. Invite other kids and their families to join in a day of planting, weeding, and having fun together. It’s a chance to connect, share knowledge, swap seeds, or even enjoy some homegrown produce too. 

Encouraging children to get their hands dirty for gardening is not just fun; it’s a great way to cultivate their overall development. As we celebrate their growth and well-being, let’s also advocate their love for nature, ensuring they grow up with a sense of responsibility towards our environment. Take time to nurture the next generation, one garden at a time!