Toddler+

Gardening for toddlers and up


Recommended Books for Budding Gardeners

by Kristen Smeal, ABG Board Member These books were handpicked by five-year-old Rosemary, a lover of books and gardening. Muncha, Muncha, Muncha by Candace Fleming Young children will engage with this book, repeating the onomatopoeic phrases of hungry rabbits finding their way into Mr. McGreely’s garden. With the turn of […]

childrens gardening books

Childrens gardening journals

How to Make a Garden Journal

by Kristen Smeal, ABG board member and Master Gardener A garden journal can be used for planning a garden as well as recording progress throughout the season. Children can be encouraged to play an active role in the planning process by making a personalized garden journal. Having children plant some […]


Worm Composting with Children

by Sarah Miller, Master Gardener The process of worm composting (or vermiculture) can be a mutually beneficial undertaking. Your child learns about worm biology, decomposition and waste reduction, and the worms create black gold for your garden, also known as worm castings or worm poop. To get started you’ll need […]

Worm composting

Swiss chard and other greens

Grow a Rainbow Garden this Fall

by Kristen Smeal, Master Gardener Brightly colored fruits and vegetables not only add a pop of color to the table, they also add an abundance of nutrients and fun. Summertime yields a colorful palate of vegetables and fruits: red, yellow and purple tomatoes; green and yellow cucumbers; navy blueberries and […]


Five Best Vegetables to Grow with Kids

by Kristen Smeal, Master Gardener Gardening is the ideal outdoor learning experience. Whether growing in containers, raised beds, or the ground, the rewards of growing vegetables are plentiful. When children see the process from seed to harvest, they are more likely to taste vegetables they might not normally try. Pumpkins […]

Children growing veggies

Toddler safe gardening

Tips for Gardening Safely with Children

by Kristen Smeal, Master Gardener Children are curious explorers, and for that reason it’s important to look at things from a child’s perspective when thinking about gardening safety. Here are some tips to keep you and your child safe during gardening and outdoor activities. 1. SUNSCREEN AND HAT As a […]


Garden Sensory Tray

by Kristen Smeal, Master Gardener Being in nature is a perfect way to engage the senses for all ages. Creating a garden sensory tray will help toddlers and young children make positive associations between nature and the senses. Go for a walk in your neighborhood or look around the house […]

sensory gardening