Fresh fruits and vegetables can be expensive for many families, but gardening offers a fun and affordable way to introduce your children to healthy foods. Whether you have a spacious backyard, a small patio, or even just a sunny windowsill, you can garden anywhere!
In the ELV Family Engagement Friday podcast episode, “Fun Gardening Activities with Our Children” featuring Vail Shoultz-McCole, Vail shares a variety of creative ideas and helpful tips to make gardening with your kids a joyful and memorable experience.
What You Need to Get Started:
A container (big or small—even a spaghetti pot works!)
Dirt
Access to water and sunshine
Seeds
Love
Tips to Keep in Mind:
- You can grow food no matter where you live.
- Small containers are perfect to start with.
- Place the plant near a door or window so your child can watch it grow every day.
- Gardens come in all shapes and sizes.
- Radishes and lettuce are easy and fun for kids to grow.
- Label your masterpiece: write plant names on rocks and seal with clear nail polish.
- Protect your plants—birds love lettuce, so consider using a net.
- Use mulch or straw for a natural soil.
- Let your child harvest the fruits and veggies—patience is key!
- Start small and keep it fun. Even one plant is a great beginning!
Not Ready to Garden?
No problem! Take your child to a local Farmer’s Market and explore fresh fruits and vegetables together. It’s a great way to build curiosity and healthy habits.
Fun Gardening Books to Explore:
Growing Vegetable Soup by Lois Ehlert
Stone Soup (various versions available)You’re just one plant away from raising a child who enjoys vegetables. When you make gardening fun, you create positive, lasting memories—and a love for healthy food.
