Most kids view a garden without much enthusiasm they see vast amounts of terrible things like broccoli, spinach and turnips. Couple the dreaded vegetables with the thought of pulling weeds and most kids will run for cover. I can certainly remember what seemed like endless hours spent in my parents gardens using a hoe and picking string beans I hated green beans and it was like cruel and inhumane punishment to make me pick green beans and then force me to eat them.



Today most people have a garden for fun or just to have some fresh vegetables in the summer I do not think as many people have the giant gardens that provided food for the family for the entire year. Several things can be done to make gardening fun and interesting for young kids. One of the first things is to make the overall garden experience a positive one don't force your kids to spend long hours in the garden start with a few minutes at a time remember kids have a short attention span.

Second try to find and focus in on your childs interest if your child likes corn put them in charge of the corn get them involved right from the start they can help pick out the seeds try growing different types of corn don't forget you can grow pop corn. By putting them in charge and being supportive they feel more like they have some power or control over the garden and when you are eating the corn they raised, praise them and they will feel proud and will be looking forward to gardening in the next season.

If your child is interested in birds you can dedicate a portion of your garden to your child to grow things that provide food for the birds over the winter. Sunflowers are a great source of bird food. The high rate of growth coupled with giant size sunflowers make an excellent choice for a young child to grow even as an adult it is hard not to look in wonderment t a giant sunflower. Wheatgrass is also a good source of food for birds that can grow most anyplace. Check with your seed supplier for bird food plants that can be raised in your area.

The biggest thing is to keep your child interested in the garden don't make it seem like work. Use the garden time to teach your child about the world thy live in show them how some insects like lady bugs and praying mantis are good for your garden and other bugs can be harmful to your plants. Explain how all insects are important to keeping the eco system in balance. As long as gardening is kept fun your children they will want to be involved and you can enjoy some quality time with the whole family.