Spring is the perfect time to get outside and introduce children to the joys of nature and gardening. Whether you have a garden, balcony space, courtyard, any space really, there are plenty of ways to engage little ones in outdoor fun. Here are ten exciting outdoor activities to do with children this spring:
1. Plant Flowers and Vegetables
There are so many fruits and vegetables you can grow. Try growing carrots and peas in containers or in the ground for tasty outdoor snacks or scatter wildflower seeds in pots or even old wellies to attract bees and insects to your garden. Watching seeds grow helps children understand the life cycle of plants and nurtures patience and responsibility.
2. Make Nature Art
Collect fallen bits of nature, pick some flowers, gather up petals and leaves and create your own nature masterpieces , press flowers, make colourful rubbings or create an amazing collage.
3. Create a Mini Herb Garden
Planting herbs like basil, mint, and parsley in small pots or a garden bed is a great way for children to explore different scents and textures. Plus, they’ll love picking fresh herbs for meals!
4. Build a Bug Hotel
Encourage biodiversity by making a bug hotel using sticks, leaves, and old wood. This fun craft project teaches kids about insects and their role in the garden ecosystem.
5. Decorate Plant Pots
Let children paint and personalize plant pots with bright colours and designs. This creative activity allows them to take ownership of their plants and makes for beautiful garden decorations.
6. Make a DIY Bird Feeder
Welcome birds into the garden by making a homemade bird feeder using pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseed. Observing different bird species adds an element of wildlife education to gardening.
7. Read a Book
Grab a blanket, some cushions and of course a snack and head into the garden to read a book together. Pick a favourite or why not try a book that explores insects, flowers and appreciate the nature around you.
8. Create a Fairy or Dinosaur Garden
Use small plants, pebbles, and tiny figurines to build a whimsical fairy garden or a prehistoric dinosaur world. This imaginative project is perfect for sparking creativity in young gardeners.
9. Go on a Garden Scavenger Hunt
Make a list of garden treasures such as different leaves, insects, flowers, and rocks. Children will enjoy searching for items and learning about nature along the way.
10. Grow Strawberries in a Container
Strawberries are easy to grow in pots and provide a delicious reward. Kids will love watering, watching them ripen, and picking their own sweet treats.
By engaging children in these hands-on garden activities, you’ll not only create wonderful memories but also inspire a lifelong love for nature. What’s your favourite activity to do with kids in spring? Let us know in the comments!
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Also, don’t forget to check out where our local Little Muddy Boots classes are taking place if you have toddlers or pre-schoolers.
Disclaimer
*Don’t over pick things – it’s a great opportunity to teach your child how to be respectful in the garden about what they are picking and how much to pick. Ensure your child is only picking and touching things which are safe in the garden.
