Getting kids involved in
gardening By Huw Richards
C
lose to half of Australian parents with children under 18 enjoy gardening as a way to relax, get some fresh air and physical activity and inspire their children to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. Huw Richards, gardener, author and 24-yearold leading gardening YouTuber shares his advice for how to encourage green fingers from an early age.
A survey commissioned by digital reading app Readly has revealed a resurgence in gardening for relaxation, fitness, and food, which in turn encourages a new generation of kids to get outdoors and get in touch with nature. Up to 76% of Australians enjoy gardening as a leisurely pursuit with a markedly high uptake among Australians over 30. Gardening has many benefits not just for mental health but is also an opportunity for kids to learn where their food comes from. Huw Richards, Readly gardening spokesperson, gives eight tricks for inspiring kids and families to get into gardening: 1. Begin with a small garden plot or even container gardening. Let
children have their own space to plant and care for their chosen plants. Give them ownership of this process to make them feel empowered and have a role in gardening. 2. Create gardening activities that capture children's interest. Consider
themed gardens, such as a pizza garden with tomatoes and herbs, or a rainbow garden with plants of different colours. 3. Encourage children to dig in the soil, plant seeds, and water their
plants. All children love to dig so give them a space or pot and let them experience the joy of seeing their efforts result in growth and harvest. 4. Get the children to pick a crop that most excites them to grow and
give them everything they need to take responsibility for growing and caring for it. From blueberries to mint to lavender or flowers, let them experience the nurturing process! 5. Show children the wonders of nature's diversity and encourage
them to try new foods based on what they have grown. They will taste even better if they have grown it! 12 Peninsula Kids – Spring 2023