Container gardening for kids is a great way to instill an appreciation of nature in your child that can last all their lives. Container gardening for kids can be a fun activity for you and your child.  Gardening can be a learning experience for a child at any age, but more importantly it can instill a life long interest in a relaxing and therapeutic hobby.

Not everyone can have a garden, even a container garden. School districts throughout the United States have started programs to teach children about gardening whether in the schools or as a community endeavor.  These groups understand the value of gardening and the teaching possible through these extra curricular activities. However, if you do have the space for a regular garden or a container garden, you have an excellent opportunity to teach your child to understand nature and to enjoy the activity and rewards of gardening as a way of life.

It is possible to use a garden to teach colors and shapes, how plants grow; how to take care of the needs of plants, their value in nutrition and other aspects of science. That is not really necessary. A young child just likes to be a part of what you are doing. By simply allowing them, to assist by watering plants, pulling weeds and planting, watching plants grow and picking the results of their efforts you are instilling in them an interest in living things that will last them all their lives.

Container gardening for kids will allow a child to have his very own gardening area where he can plant his favorite vegetable or flower. Sunflowers seem to be a favorite of children as do pumpkins. Seeds for the large pumpkins as seen on the left are available from Park Seed. Other favorite seeds and flowers are available as well.

Containers can be small or large depending on the interest or ability of the child. Container gardening for kids also provides a fresh air activity that in itself is healthful.

Health aspects of nature are becoming more and more recognized. Children need activity which a garden can provide. It also can reduce stress better than video games and TV. In fact, recently the Mayo clinic has remodeled its child care center incorporating animals and nature themes. The consensus is that the nature theme is part of the healing process. Other hospitals are following suit. Video games and television are still available, but they are not the predominant theme of children’s hospitals and care centers.

Container Gardening for kids can have long term benefits for the child and for the parent. If container gardening is possible, and it is possible almost anywhere in some degree, it is certainly worth the time and effort to pursue with your child. It will be beneficial for  your health and that of your child.