There are many benefits to gardening that we can all enjoy, but there are even more for kids!

1. Gardening can be a solitary or family activity. We all benefit from a moment or two of quiet, and obviously family togetherness is a good thing!

2. There is no better way to learn science than by getting our hands dirty! Kids can learn hundreds of biology lessons in one season of gardening with proper support. Talk about why plants grow or why sometimes they don’t! Problem solve with your child when a bunny munches on your veggies. Math and language arts lessons are an added bonus.

3. Do you have a picky eater? If they grow a food, they will usually eat it! Ask your children to plant some fruits and veggies, and after all of their hard work to grow and harvest them, they will not want to see them go to waste!

4. Gardening boosts self-esteem. When children plant, nurture and grow food or flowers, they feel a sense of accomplishment. Gardening is hard work but rewarding! Many kids thrive on a connection to nature.

5. Gardening is a great workout! Kids develop gross motor (big muscle) and fine motor (small muscle) skills in the garden as they dig, pull, plant, sort, carry, and step.