Most parents will probably remember a time when they scolded their children for playing in the dirt, yet children have a natural curiosity about the earth, said Evelyn Neier, a 4-H youth development specialist and state coordinator for the Junior Master Gardener program.
Parents' willingness to invest time in a small family garden can build on their child's interest, while also helping a child learn more about the environment and the world around them, how plants grow, and more about the food he or she eats, she said. Planting seeds and watching them grow can help a child develop into a more confident and capable individual.
Children who grow up as gardeners also generally demonstrate a greater concern for the environment later in life, said Neier, who urged parents to "start with a small plot or pots that lend themselves to container gardening."
"Be realistic," said Neier, who advised beginning gardeners to choose one or two varieties of flowers and vegetables, such as a spring salad crops. Lettuce, spinach, radishes and green onions are examples that, in Kansas, can typically be started at the end of March to yield produce in May.
"Inviting a child to help with soil preparation, choosing seeds and starter plants, planting, watering (if needed) and weeding can help the child learn more about the process," the horticulturist said.
"Invite is a key word, as gardening as a family usually works best if viewed as an opportunity, rather than a chore," she said.
Once a garden is planted, checking to see seeds sprout and plants grow can draw a child's interest. Suggesting that a child choose produce for a meal and help to prepare it builds skills in selecting produce and preparing meals.
Integrating flowers with vegetables adds color to a family garden, but also generates opportunities for children to share with family and friends.
More information about Kansas' Junior Master Gardener Program is available online at www.Kansas4-H.org. Click on programs, and then Junior Master Gardeners. Information also is available at county and district K-State Research and Extension offices and online at www.ksre.ksu.edu and then click on Horticulture Information Center.
]]>