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!

Embark on an exciting adventure with our Outdoor Scavenger Hunt—perfect for all ages and suitable for any occasion! Whether you’re planning a family outing, a birthday celebration, or simply looking to engage the kids in the great outdoors, our free printables make it easy to organise a thrilling quest.

From colourful leaves and unique stones to cheerful wildlife and intriguing bugs, the scavenger hunt encourages exploration and fosters a love of nature. With five tailored printables available, you can adapt the hunt to suit varying age groups, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. Each sheet is designed to spark curiosity and creativity, promoting teamwork and a sense of accomplishment when items are found.

So gather your loved ones, grab your wellies, and set off into the wilderness! With our Outdoor Scavenger Hunt printables, unforgettable memories in nature await.

Creating a DIY bird feeder is a delightful and engaging project for kids that not only fosters creativity but also helps them connect with nature. All you need is an empty toilet roll, some peanut butter, birdseed, and a length of string. Begin by spreading a generous layer of peanut butter all over the toilet roll. Once coated, roll it in birdseed until fully covered.

Next, thread the string through the roll and tie a knot at one end, creating a loop for hanging. Find a suitable branch outside or a tree in your garden, and hang the feeder securely. Soon enough, the little ones will be thrilled to spot feathered friends visiting their creation, making for a lovely learning experience about local wildlife and the importance of feeding birds. Enjoy watching as your backyard becomes a vibrant haven for chirping guests!

Making A Splash! Water Cycle Fun

As the sun dipped low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the lush UK countryside, children gathered by the shimmering pond, eager for an afternoon of exploration and play. The gentle sound of rippling water filled the air as they embarked on an exciting journey through the water cycle. With colorful buckets and makeshift waterwheels crafted from recycled materials, the youngsters set about mimicking the natural processes that sustain life.

“Look, I’ve made a cloud!” shouted Lucy, as she joyfully splashed water into the air, droplets sparkling like diamonds in the sunlight. Nearby, Tom experimented with his waterwheel, watching in delight as it turned, demonstrating how precipitation could power their imaginative creations.

The group played games, from water relay races to creating miniature gardens that illustrated the importance of soil and rainfall. Their laughter echoed across the pond, harmonising with the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves.

As the day drew to a close, they gathered round to share what they had learned, each child filled with newfound appreciation for the cycle that connects them to the world. “Water is magic!” declared Mia, her eyes wide with wonder. And indeed, through adventure and play, they had not only made a splash but also discovered the vital importance of water in their everyday lives.

In the heart of an idyllic English countryside, nestled beneath the whispering branches of a grand old apple tree, a group of children gathered for a delightful afternoon of craft and storytelling. The sun filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground, as their teacher, Miss Evelyn, began to weave a tale about the magic of patience.

“Once upon a time,” she began, “there was a little apple seed, yearning to grow into a strong tree. But the seed soon learned that growing takes time and care. It had to wait through long winters and uncertain springs before it could finally bloom.”

With each turn of the story, the children were encouraged to create their own apple-themed crafts. They fashioned vibrant paper apples, each one adorned with unique designs, while listening intently to Miss Evelyn's gentle voice. The laughter and chatter filled the air, but every so often, they paused, contemplating the lessons hidden in the narrative—the importance of waiting, nurturing, and appreciating the journey of growth.

As the afternoon sun dipped lower in the sky, the children hung their crafted apples on the branches of the old tree, each one a symbol of patience and perseverance. Under the watchful limbs of that wise apple tree, they began to understand that every beautiful thing takes time to flourish, just like the little seed in their beloved story.