Cornell Cooperative Extension | Yates County

Gardening is one of those wonderful activities that can be done by the whole family. Maybe you can recall times when you gardened with your family as you were growing up. How old were you when you first remember helping with the plants? Are your recollections fond ones or do they conjure up feelings of distaste?

How you garden now may be dependent on your exposure to it as a youngster. If you remember gardening as a chore (all that weeding!) you may not be an avid gardener today. If, on the other hand, you remember your gardening times as ones filled with the joy of producing flowers, vegetables or fruit that came as a result of your labor, then you probably are gardening today.

Just as adults like different activities, young people have varying interests in the things they do, and gardening is no exception. Some kids can't wait to get their hands into the soil, while others hold back and only like to pick the flowers. How does one, as an adult or mentor, encourage all aspects of gardening with young children so that it is a positive experience?

First, allow the child to have some choice in what is being grown. When people have ownership in an activity, they tend to stick with it more. Some children want to grow flowers, while others only want pumpkins! Find out what your child would like to grow, and go from there. If they are growing something they like, they tend to care for it better and more completely.

Something else to consider when planning to garden with your youngster is the age and ability of that child. Three year olds have a very short attention span, while ten year olds can be engrossed in an activity for hours. Preschoolers are not careful about knowing the difference between weeds and wanted plants, but third graders are becoming very adept at noticing differences in plant parts. When you know what your child can do, and do not expect much more than that, then the gardening experience is better for you and your child.

When you garden with preschoolers, keep in mind that this activity, like all activities that are done by children at this age, should be carefully supervised! And remember that little children often see things differently than adults do. Where you might want them to learn about the depth of planting seeds, they may be engrossed in the discovery of toads, insects, earthworms and other garden critters! Perhaps your corn stalks are providing them with "tunnels" to explore. Take the time to enjoy their discoveries with them.

If having youngsters running through your garden is not your idea of a relaxing time, be sure to give your child their own garden space and explain the boundaries clearly. You can still be an active part of their garden, and the amount of time you need to give is dictated, as stated earlier, by the age and abilities of your child. Whatever the age of your child, be sure to show genuine interest and share gardening tips (like mulching to keep the weeds down and moisture in.)

Many parents have found that their children enjoy parts of the garden process but do not have enthusiasm for every step and each job. This is a normal characteristic, and should be discussed with your child before gardening begins. Your expectations need to be shared with your child. Discuss goals with your children, and get their input as to how those goals will be met. Remember that young children really do not see the big picture, but as they get older and have more experience, they will be able to carry out more of the gardening responsibilities from beginning to end. You will want to continue to show interest, even when your 12 year old starts the seeds, prepares the soil, transplants the seedlings, monitors the garden and harvests the crop.

Gardening with your children can be a very rewarding experience. Respecting your children, their limits, and your limits will help you all to be actively involved in an enjoyable family activity that can last a lifetime. Your local Cooperative Extension office and master gardeners have much information available to assist you in planning your garden.

Last updated: 6/7/01

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