I am a mom and I garden with the next generation. For young people, a garden is more than just a space filled with plants; it’s a living classroom, a playground, and a realm of discovery rolled into one. Gardens are magical realms where children can touch, taste, and feel the wonders of the natural world. Introducing children to the joys of gardening is not merely about teaching them to plant seeds but about nurturing a lifelong bond with nature.
Think back to your own childhood memories. The feel of soil between fingers, the thrill of spotting the first sprout, the joy and pride of tasting a home-grown tomato. These moments, simple and yet important, leave indelible marks on young minds. In a garden, children learn patience as they watch a seedling grow into a full-fledged plant. They experience the cycles of life, understanding the interconnectedness of nature, from the role of pollinators to the significance of rain. The garden becomes a space where science, art, and life converge. And children love being little scientists!
But beyond the tangible lessons, gardens offer something even more vital: a space for imagination. In the garden, a patch of marigolds can become a golden kingdom, and the rustling leaves might just be whispering secrets, and the bugs have a rich life that Roald Dahl would be envious of. Gardens foster creativity, encouraging children to dream, imagine, and wonder. The sensory experiences like the scent of lavender, the texture of ferns, and the sound of chirping birds all contribute to a holistic experience that’s both calming and invigorating.
In a world increasingly dominated by screens, cultivating a love for gardens in the younger generation is an investment in their physical and emotional well-being. It’s also a commitment to the future. A child who plants a tree, who understands the value of biodiversity, who appreciates the rhythm of nature, grows into an adult who cares for the planet. So, next time you head to the garden, take a child along. Share stories, plant seeds, chase butterflies, and watch as the magic unfolds. After all, in the heart of a garden, we’re all children, forever in awe of nature’s marvels.
Come see our children’s garden areas with your little ones and start learning more at The Gathering Garden in Mount Gilead. Feel free to swing by The Gathering Garden in Mount Gilead at the corner of W Allenton St and School St, if you want to discuss gardening with us, you can find out more about or workdays on our facebook page.
In these weekly columns, I will share the science of gardening and so many more interesting tidbits. Check back here every week for tailored Montgomery County garden advice, sharing our garden updates, and more.
Let’s grow together!
This article was originally published in the Montgomery Herald and is reused here with permission by Mary Poplin.