The challenge of gardening with toddlers is making sure they don’t take out the plants. I’m happy my little guy is showing some real interest in the seedlings we started, but he can be a bit over-zealous with his attentions.
It’s a good exercise in patience when gardening with the really little ones. They’re extremely curious but don’t know their own strength. That means either having to be quick to deflect damage or just roll with it. Plant extra seeds to account for crop loss. I try to remember that, in a way, right now he’s just as delicate as those little seedlings.
This is an opportunity to teach how to be gentle or careful. My little guy is just that … little. They’re enthusiastic and do everything with 110 percent energy. So it’s fun to see him interact with the plants, carefully brushing the beet seedlings with pudgy fingers or pressing his wrinkled up nose into the tiny thyme. I admit, I’m really proud when he gets it. And if he doesn’t, I divert his attention … usually at the cat’s expense. Sorry Milo.
February 27th, 2009 at 5:45 am
It ’s a helper growing….
Like a weed, too!
February 27th, 2009 at 6:04 am
He looks so cute and reverent in his job there. My daughter grumbles about helping me in the garden now but shows a ton of enthusiasm when harvest time comes. She’s 13, grumbling is part of the territory I guess. I hope he always enjoys it.
-Heather
Thanks for visiting my other blog! I’m trying to get him hooked before he’s too old to pick up. - Melanthia
February 27th, 2009 at 8:07 am
He does look so cute and gentle with the seedlings. I have to remind myself sometimes to be patient with helpers in the garden. I remember once when my oldest was about 2 she brought me a tulip she had picked with the bulb still hanging off
Ouch! So far the plants have been relatively unharmed. But he’s becoming more curious and determined! - Melanthia
February 28th, 2009 at 8:26 am
What a good gardener he is! It is such a good thing that you are letting him discover things on his own- planting extra is always a good idea! You are a very good mom!
He is pretty helpful … most of the time. It’s a work in progress this mothering thing, but I usually enjoy it. Ha! - Melanthia