How to Start a Preschool Garden: Little Sprouts Learning

Creating a preschool garden is a wonderful way to introduce young children to the joys of nature and the basics of gardening. At Little Sprouts Learning, we believe that every little gardener can thrive with just a bit of planning and creativity.

1. Choose the Right Location: Start by selecting a sunny spot in your schoolyard or community garden. Ideally, the area should receive at least six hours of sunlight daily and have easy access to water.

2. Get Kids Involved in Planning: Involve the little ones in choosing what to plant. Consider easy-to-grow vegetables like radishes, carrots, and peas or colourful flowers such as marigolds and sunflowers. This not only fosters excitement but also teaches them about different plants and their needs.

3. Prepare the Soil: With supervision, demonstrate how to prepare the soil by tilling it and removing any stones or weeds. Allow the children to help mix in compost, teaching them about soil health and the importance of nutrients for plant growth.

4. Planting Together: Organise a planting day where children can dig holes for seeds or seedlings. Encourage them to follow the planting instructions for depth and spacing, turning this activity into a hands-on learning experience.

5. Care and Observation: Establish a regular routine for watering and caring for the garden. Teach the children about the importance of consistent care and observation. Create a garden journal where they can draw pictures of their plants and record growth, fostering a sense of responsibility and connection to the natural world.

6. Celebrate the Harvest: Once the plants have grown, involve the children in harvesting the produce. Consider hosting a small picnic or cooking day where they can taste the fruits of their labour, reinforcing the concept of farm-to-table.

Starting a preschool garden not only enhances children’s understanding of nature but also cultivates teamwork, patience, and a lifelong appreciation for gardening. At Little Sprouts Learning, we’re excited to see how your garden will grow!

Gratitude Activities for Kindergarten

In the vibrant world of kindergarten, teaching children the concept of gratitude can be both fun and engaging. One delightful activity involves creating a “Gratitude Tree.” Children can draw or cut out leaf shapes from colourful paper and write or illustrate things they are thankful for, such as their family, friends, or pets. These leaves can then be attached to a large tree outline displayed in the classroom, creating a beautiful collage of gratitude.

Another enjoyable activity is a “Thankfulness Circle.” At the start or end of each day, children sit in a circle and take turns sharing something they are grateful for. This not only allows them to express their feelings but also fosters a sense of community as they listen to each other’s contributions.

Additionally, incorporating storytelling can enhance their understanding of gratitude. Reading picture books that focus on thankfulness, followed by a discussion, helps children relate the themes to their own lives. The Thank You Book by Mo Willems, for instance, can spark delightful conversations about appreciation.

By integrating these activities into the kindergarten curriculum, educators can nurture a spirit of gratitude that children will carry with them as they grow.