One of my favorite little kits! Teach children all about plants, from seed to harvest as they pretend to grow their very own garden. They will learn about the environment and nutrition which is incredibly important to their well-being.
I was inspired to create this kit after spending some time in a garden center. I look forward every spring to preparing for a new season of growth. It is such a peaceful and rewarding experience having a garden to creating food from start to finish. I hope that this kit inspires some new young gardeners!
Props that can be used in a gardening play kit: various plants and flowers (real or artificial as long as the real plants are non-toxic), gardening gloves, black beans or soil, seed/bulbs, garden tools, a planting station (boxes and containers), gardening images and words, gardening books or magazines, flyers, watering can, a sun hat, and a stuffed bunny. Little insects can also be added to teach about the role they have in the garden. I like to extend this play into an art activity with some plastic garden spikes and markers so children can draw the plants. This is always a hit! Remember that adding books or magazines is a great way to promote literacy.
***Through dramatic play, children come in and out of roles, and can imitate others. Kids can re-enact something they have heard or seen. This gives children an opportunity practice communication such as listening and speaking skills. Social skills are also practiced through their interactions. They learn to take turns, share items, and can practice empathy by “putting themselves in someone-else’s shoes. This type of play also builds confidence and problem-solving skills. They learn to self-regulate. The use of materials gives children a chance to develop motor skills, while learning about the items and their purpose.
Be sure to provide a variety of items to choose from, and give your child plenty of uninterrupted play time to allow them to delve deep into Pretend Land.
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