I am a mom of a picky eater. And I bet a lot of y’all are too. It’s developmentally appropriate for small children to hesitate on unfamiliar foods. In the realm of picky eaters, vegetables often top the list of “no-go” items, much to the dismay of parents and caregivers striving for a balanced diet. We go through a lot of gummy vitamins in this house. But what if the key to unlocking a love for veggies lies not on the plate, but in the soil of a garden? Growing a garden can be a transformative experience for picky eaters, especially children, opening their eyes and palates to a variety of vegetables in a fun and engaging way.
Gardening offers a hands-on educational experience where children can witness the journey of their food from seed to plate. This process instills a sense of ownership and pride in the foods they grow, making them more likely to try and enjoy eating their harvest. The magic begins with choosing what to plant. Involving picky eaters in this process can spark curiosity and excitement. From vibrant carrots to quirky-shaped squashes, the garden becomes a treasure trove of discovery.
As the seeds sprout and the plants grow, children engage in nurturing their garden. This nurturing is not just about watering and weeding; it’s about forming a connection with the food they eat. Children are more inclined to taste a vegetable they have planted, cared for, and watched grow. This direct involvement demystifies vegetables, turning them from suspicious objects on their plates into familiar friends.
Moreover, gardens can be a playground for the senses, which is a crucial aspect of overcoming picky eating. The varied textures, colors, and scents of fresh vegetables straight from the garden can be far more appealing than their store-bought counterparts. Tasting a tomato still warm from the sun or snapping a crisp bean off the vine offers a sensory experience that can’t be replicated in a grocery store aisle.
For families without space for a traditional garden, container gardening or participating in community gardens can offer the same benefits. No matter the scale, the act of gardening can transform the act of eating. It provides an understanding of where food comes from and the effort that goes into growing it, fostering appreciation and possibly a more adventurous palate.
The educational benefits of gardening extend beyond taste preferences. Children learn about nutrition, the importance of fresh foods, and the environmental impact of growing one’s food. They also develop patience and responsibility, qualities that are beneficial in all areas of life.
In essence, a garden can be a powerful tool in the battle against picky eating. It creates a bridge of familiarity and trust with vegetables, turning the “yuck” into “yum” one harvest at a time. By nurturing their growth, children not only cultivate plants but also create a lasting relationship with a variety of foods that will serve their health for years to come. I’d be happy to talk picky eaters, 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.