It engages all of the senses

Do you hear the leaves crunching as you walk over them with your shoes? How does the soil feel between your fingers after you water it? How many different colors and shapes of plants do you see around you? As you get closer to each plant and take a deep breath in, what do you smell? How does that leaf taste and what does it remind you of?

It teaches responsibility and patience

Plants need daily care. Paying attention to the amount of light and water plants receive will be a great lesson in responsibility for children. When planting from seed, it can take weeks or months to see progress. This waiting game will teach children patience.

It encourages healthy eating

Children are more likely to taste and eat fruits, vegetables, and herbs they grow. They're delighted when they can pick a tomato or strawberry right from the garden and pop it into their mouths, bursting with flavor.