Gardening with the Kids
We all know that gardening can be very rewarding. One can save a lot of money for the family by cutting down on the grocery bill. Why not pass that sense of frugality on to the next generation? Kids can gain many benefits through gardening.
One benefit is that the child can learn to be responsible. If the parent allows their child to take care of his or her own garden, the child will learn responsibility and good work ethics. Just be careful not to be too critical of the way the child does things. If they mess up planting something, just wait until they go to bed or aren’t around and then fix it for them.
A second benefit is that they child will feel a sense of accomplishment. If they are encouraged, the child will begin to feel good about themselves and what they have done. The pride that a child gains from growing something to help provide for the family is priceless.
A third benefit is that the child will spend more time outdoors. Gardening is rated is one of the best exercises to control weight and benefit the mind. Today’s children spend way too much time indoors playing video games, watching television, and being inactive. The adventures of gardening can replace that inactivity with exercise and fresh air for the child; all of this for free.
The fourth benefit of gardening with you child is that they become invested as a member of the family team. They are now a working member that helps provide for the family. This means their will be more money saved for the entire family. It lets the child know that he or she has a vested interest in the family and its’ success.
Gardening is a wonderful learning experience for children. It provides many lessons in biology, soil sciences, botany, math, and vocabulary skills. Being able to experience the gardening process will give the child a leg up in their academics.
The final benefit is that it will provide an unbelievable bonding experience between the parents and child. No child will ever forget the time spent together in the garden and with any luck they will pass this experience on to their own children.
Gardening is rewarding and fun for both adults and children. It is not only a rewarding hobby, but can be a benefit to families that are working toward a frugal lifestyle. It is an experience that should be shared by all members of the family; so be sure to include your children in all your gardening adventures.