Growing a Garden Together

Growing a Garden Together

As a working mother and someone who loves spending time with my family, I am guilty of falling into the habit of just hanging out with my kids on the couch, reading before bed or merely just enjoying dinner together. These things are wonderful and I cherish all of our moments together but I wanted to do something that would better them, teach them something and allow us to bond while creating something together.

We are pretty healthy eaters and love all things organic. Which as you know, can be pretty expensive. So what better way to bond with your kids while doing something that is actually beneficial to them, and our family as a whole, while saving money? No complaints here!

I’m excited to report that we are now successfully growing our own tomatoes, squash, blackberries, apples, zucchini, etc. I think there are a multitude of benefits to growing your own garden, especially with children.

They learn a sense of responsibility. If they can see what they planted is growing and know they have to maintain it to keep it alive, then they are learning how to value something they put effort into making. It gives them something to look forward to while also giving them a feeling of accomplishment.

They learn the importance of patience. You can’t grow a garden over night. The act of them having to tend to the garden and watch the produce slowly grow shows them that good things take time and effort.

They learn teamwork. The garden is all of ours and we all have to contribute to maintaining it. They see the effort that goes into it and they can share the responsibilities of helping it flourish.

It’s beneficial to the family, because we are doing an activity together that is fulfilling. We are bonding while working together. We aren’t just watching TV, with little or no conversation. We are learning and teaching. Kids need that quality time, and we actually have something to show for it.

They understand the benefits of health. They see what you grow yourself is natural so much better for your body. Foods that are manufactured cannot be grown. The kids being able to actually see the process of food grow naturally is important.

It teaches them prioritizing and scheduling. If they know that they need to water the garden or pick the vegetables a certain time a week, they will get into the habit of routine.

They will learn to be innovative. They will see that there is many things you can do on your own which will hopefully help them strive to try new things. I think this will spark their imagination and interest.

They will understand that you can’t be lazy if you want to succeed. Growing a garden isn’t an easy task. It takes persistence and consistency. If kids are excited about something that they are doing they will put in the time and effort.

If you can incorporate learning into bonding time, you will feel more fulfilled. These are skills and lessons that they will carry into adulthood. 

If you don’t have time or the space to build a garden there are other options you can do together that the kids will enjoy. Building a bird feeder is a great idea. The positive, long-term benefits are worth it.

Below I have included a link to building your own garden AND building a DIY bird feeder if you want to start with a smaller project: