Cultivating Your Child’s Green Thumb with Gardening
Gardening is more than just a hobby; it's a pathway to developing a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
This comprehensive guide will explain the essentials of introducing gardening to children, provide age-appropriate activities, and highlight the numerous benefits of nurturing a young gardener.
From the right tools, safety tips, and fun projects to sustainability lessons, you'll find everything you need to embark on this green journey with your child.
What Is the Right Age to Introduce Gardening to Kids?
The appropriate age to introduce children to gardening can vary greatly depending on the child’s individual development and interest.
For example, according to the article "Gardening with Children," gardening can be introduced to children from preschool age onwards. However, according to the Plant a Seed & See What Grows Foundation, the best time to introduce gardening to kids is now, as it offers academic advantages, a head start for future careers, and physical health benefits.
However, as a general guideline, children can start engaging in simple gardening activities as early as two or three years old. At this age, children are naturally curious and eager to explore the world around them, making it an ideal time to introduce them to the wonders of gardening.
Here are some age-appropriate gardening tasks for children:
Ages 2-3
Toddlers can start with basic tasks such as watering plants with a small watering can, picking up fallen leaves, or playing with soil under supervision. They can also start learning about different colors and shapes by observing various plants and flowers.
Ages 4-5
At this age, children can start to plant seeds and bulbs under adult supervision. They can also begin to learn about the life cycle of plants and understand the concept of growth from seeds to plants.
Ages 6-7
Children can start to take on more responsibility in the garden, such as weeding and harvesting. They can also start learning about different types of plants and their needs.
Ages 8 and Above
Older children can engage in more complex gardening tasks such as pruning, composting, and planning a garden layout. They can also start learning about the importance of gardening for the environment and sustainability.
“Why try to explain miracles to your children when you can have them plant a garden.” ~ Robert Brault, Garden Gate Child Development Center
Successful Examples of Gardening with Kids
Gardening with kids is a powerful educational tool that promotes physical, cognitive, and emotional development. Through hands-on gardening activities, children learn valuable lessons about biology, ecology, and sustainability.
Here are some inspiring examples of successful gardening programs for children.
The Edible Schoolyard Project
The Edible Schoolyard Project, founded by Alice Waters, integrates gardening into the school curriculum to teach students about healthy eating and sustainable agriculture.
Inside California Education: Edible Schoolyard Project
At Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Berkeley, California, students engage in all aspects of growing and preparing food. This program has shown remarkable results in enhancing students' understanding of nutrition, improving their academic performance, and fostering a deeper connection to the environment.
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Children’s Garden Program
Since 1914, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Children’s Garden has been educating children about nature through hands-on gardening.
Kids aged 2 to 17 plant, tend, and harvest their own crops and flowers, learning sustainable practices and stewardship. Younger children also engage in crafts and creative play, while older kids receive lessons in science and urban ecology.
Teens can advance to become junior instructors. Over a thousand children participate annually, gaining valuable knowledge and skills in community horticulture and conservation.
KidsGardening Program
KidsGardening is an organization dedicated to promoting the benefits of gardening among children. It provides educators and caregivers with resources, grant funding, and community support to engage children in gardening activities.
KidsGardening resources reach over 3.8 million young people annually, fostering curiosity and hands-on learning. Their programs help children develop physically, cognitively, and emotionally through hands-on learning about biology, ecology, and nutrition, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural world.
What Are Some Simple Gardening Activities for Kids?
Gardening can be a fun and educational activity for children. These activities should be engaging, while also being age-appropriate and safe. These types of projects not only help them understand the importance of nature but also develop their physical and cognitive skills.
Here are some gardening projects that can help children learn about plants, nature, and the environment:
Planting Seeds
This is the most basic gardening activity.
Children can start with easy-to-grow plants like sunflowers, radishes, or beans. They can learn about the life cycle of plants and observe how seeds germinate and grow into plants with sunlight and water. Kids can start seeds in small containers or egg cartons, and watch them grow into seedlings.
Creating a Butterfly Garden
This project involves planting flowers and plants that attract butterflies. Children can learn about the different types of butterflies, their life cycle, and the role they play in pollination.
Making a Bird Feeder
This activity can attract birds to the garden, adding another layer of interest for the child as they learn about different bird species, their diets, and their role in the ecosystem. They can make a simple bird feeder from a pine cone, peanut butter, and bird seeds. This project can be combined with planting trees or shrubs that produce berries or seeds that birds like.
Planting a Vegetable Garden
This project allows children to see the fruits of their labor, literally. They can learn about different types of vegetables, their growth patterns, and the satisfaction of growing their own food.
Starting a Compost Pile or Compost Bin
Composting is a great way to teach kids about recycling and the nutrient cycle. They can collect kitchen scraps like fruit peels and vegetable cuttings and add them to a compost pile or bin. Kids can then learn about the decomposition process, the role of microorganisms, and how compost can enrich the soil.
Painting Garden Rocks
Kids can collect garden rocks and paint them with non-toxic paint. These painted rocks can be used as garden decorations or plant markers.
Garden Scavenger Hunt
Create a list of things to find in the garden, like a certain type of leaf, a bug, or a flower. This activity can help kids learn about different plants and creatures in the garden.
Making a Rain Gauge
This project can help children understand the importance of rainfall for plants. They can measure the amount of rain and learn about weather patterns and climate.
Creating a Terrarium or Miniature Container Garden
Kids can create their own miniature garden in a container. They can choose small plants, arrange them in the container, and even add miniature decorations. This activity encourages creativity and planning skills.
The goal of these projects is not just to keep children busy, but to instill in them a love for nature and an understanding of the importance of plants and gardening.
How Can I Make Gardening Fun for My Child?
Making gardening fun for children involves creativity, engagement, and a bit of educational insight.
Here are some strategies that can help:
Gamify Gardening
Turn gardening tasks into games. For instance, you can create a ‘weed-pulling’ contest or a ‘fastest seed planter’ game. This makes the tasks fun and encourages a healthy sense of competition.
Create a Theme Garden
Theme gardens, such as a pizza garden (growing tomatoes, basil, oregano, etc.) or a fairy garden, can make gardening more exciting for kids. They can learn about the different plants required for their favorite foods or stories, making the experience more relatable.
Use Kid-Friendly Gardening Tools
Kids love having their own tools. Invest in a set of gardening tools designed for kids. They are safer, easier to handle, and often come in bright, attractive colors.
Incorporate Art
Encourage your child to decorate pots or create garden signs. This will not only enhance their creativity but also give them a sense of ownership of the garden.
Grow Fast-Growing Plants
Children are often impatient and love to see quick results. Planting fast-growing plants like sunflowers, radishes, or peas can quickly give them a sense of accomplishment.
Create a Bug Hotel
Teaching kids about the importance of insects in the garden can be fun. Create a ‘bug hotel’ using natural materials to attract beneficial insects. This can be a great way to teach kids about biodiversity.
Start a Garden Journal
Encourage your child to keep a garden journal. They can draw pictures of the plants, note their observations, and track the growth of the plants. This not only improves their observational skills but also their writing and drawing skills.
What Are the Benefits of Gardening for Children?
Gardening offers a multitude of benefits for children that extend beyond the simple joy of playing in the dirt. It’s a hands-on opportunity for learning and growth that can have a profound impact on a child’s development.
According to a case study by Irene Canaris, implementing a hands-on gardening program can significantly enhance children's educational experiences. The gardening activities allowed students to engage in the entire process from planning and planting to harvesting and preparing food, thereby improving their understanding of good nutrition and the origins of fresh food. Furthermore, the program fostered social and emotional development by encouraging teamwork, responsibility, and a sense of community among students. Parents and community members, including local farmers and retired residents, actively participated in and supported the program, enhancing its sustainability and impact.
For more detailed insights and to learn how you can implement similar activities, refer to Canaris's comprehensive study on the benefits of integrating gardening into the curriculum.
Here are more benefits of gardening with kids.
Physical Development
Gardening involves a range of physical activities that can help improve a child’s motor skills. Digging, planting, watering, and weeding all require different levels of strength and coordination. Regular gardening can also contribute to overall physical fitness and health.
Cognitive Development
Gardening can significantly enhance a child’s cognitive development. According to a study on whether gardening promotes STEM education, garden-based educational projects have a profound impact on children's understanding of scientific concepts. The study found that children's mental models of gardens evolved to become more scientifically accurate, reflecting improved comprehension of plant life cycles, sunlight, and water importance. Hands-on gardening activities foster scientific literacy, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
The study also showed that children's drawings before and after the intervention revealed increased complexity and accuracy, indicating better integration of scientific knowledge. This educational approach helps children connect with nature and develop practical environmental concepts.
Environmental Stewardship
Gardening can instill a sense of respect and responsibility for the environment. Children learn about the importance of plants in our ecosystem, the value of biodiversity, and the need for conservation.
How Can Gardening Help in My Child’s Academic Learning?
Gardening can significantly contribute to a child’s academic learning in several ways. It provides a hands-on, interactive learning experience that can enhance understanding and retention of various academic concepts.
Here’s how:
Science Learning
According to a recent study, the most prevalent scientific learning related to plant knowledge, particularly their anatomical traits and diversity. The study found that garden-based learning activities significantly improved students' understanding of plant life cycles, responsible water management, and environmental stewardship. This hands-on approach deepened their knowledge of plant structure and function.
For more detailed insights and to see how you can apply these findings, read the full study by Marcia Eugenio-Gozalbo and colleagues on the benefits of garden-based education here. The detailed insights from this study can help educators plan effective garden-based learning activities that enhance scientific understanding in students.
Literacy Skills
Gardening can also enhance children’s literacy skills. They can learn new vocabulary related to plants and gardening. Reading plant labels, seed packets, or gardening books can improve their reading skills. Writing about their gardening experiences or keeping a garden journal can enhance their writing skills.
Social Studies
Gardening can be used to teach children about different cultures and their relationship with nature. They can learn about how different plants are used in various cultures for food, medicine, or ceremonies. They can also learn about the history of gardening and agriculture.
Art and Creativity
Gardening can stimulate children’s creativity. They can express their creativity in designing a garden, choosing plant colors and arrangements, or creating garden art. They can also learn about the beauty and aesthetics of nature, which can inspire their artistic skills.
Math Skills
According to the study "Mathematical and Experimental Science Education from the School Garden: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Practice," garden-based learning effectively covers a wide range of mathematical content, including measurement, geometry, statistics, probability, and proportions. Practical tasks in the garden, such as measuring plant growth, calculating planting areas, and analyzing data, help students apply mathematical concepts in real-world scenarios.
Studies cited in the review found improvements in students' mathematical skills when these skills were taught through garden activities. For example, students used addition, division, and logic related to plant care and growth. This will provide educators with strategies to systematically incorporate math content into garden activities and replicate successful outcomes across different educational settings.
How Can I Teach My Child About the Importance of Gardening?
Teaching children about the importance of gardening can be a rewarding experience, both for the child and the parent. It instills a sense of responsibility and care for the environment and helps children understand the intricate balance of nature.
Here are some strategies to effectively communicate the significance of gardening to your child:
Explain the Role of Plants in the Ecosystem
Start by explaining how plants play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They produce oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide, and provide habitat and food for various species. You can use simple analogies or stories to make this concept more understandable for your child.
Discuss the Importance of Biodiversity
Teach your child about biodiversity and how gardens contribute to it. Explain how a variety of plants in a garden can attract different types of insects, birds, and other creatures, creating a mini-ecosystem. This can help your child understand how all living things are connected.
Highlight the Benefits of Home Gardening
Discuss the advantages of home gardening, such as providing fresh, organic produce, reducing grocery bills, and minimizing the environmental impact of transporting food. This can help your child understand the practical benefits of gardening.
Talk About the Therapeutic Effects of Gardening
Gardening is known for its therapeutic effects. It can reduce stress, improve mood, and promote physical activity. Sharing this information can help your child appreciate gardening as a beneficial hobby.
Demonstrate the Impact of Gardening on Climate Change
Gardening, especially on a large scale, can help mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas. This can be a bit complex for younger children, but older kids can grasp this concept with the help of appropriate resources and explanations. The goal is not to overwhelm your child with information but to gradually introduce these concepts in a fun and engaging way. Use hands-on activities, visual aids, and interactive discussions to make learning about the importance of gardening an enjoyable experience for your child.
What Are Some Kid-Friendly Plants to Grow?
Choosing the right plants to grow is crucial in keeping their interest and ensuring their success. Some kid-friendly plants are easy to grow, safe, and provide quick gratification.
Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus)
These towering beauties are a favorite among children. They are easy to grow from seeds and can reach impressive heights. Sunflowers also provide an excellent opportunity to teach kids about the life cycle of plants and the role of flowers in attracting pollinators.
Cherry Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme)
Cherry tomatoes are perfect for little hands to plant and pick. They grow relatively quickly, providing a tangible reward for the child’s efforts. Plus, they can learn about the importance of fruits and vegetables in their diet.
Radishes (Raphanus sativus)
Radishes are one of the quickest vegetables to grow, often ready to harvest in 3-4 weeks. This quick turnaround can help maintain a child’s interest and teach them patience.
Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)
Marigolds are vibrant, hardy, and easy to grow from seeds. They can help children learn about the importance of flowers in a garden, including their role in pest control and pollination.
Peas (Pisum sativum)
Peas are another easy-to-grow vegetable that kids love. They can be eaten straight off the plant, and shelling peas can be a fun activity for kids.
Pumpkins (Cucurbita spp.)
If you have the space, pumpkins can be a fun plant for kids to grow. They take longer to mature, but the end result can be very exciting for a child, especially around Halloween.
What Tools Do Kids Need for Gardening?
When gardening with kids, it’s essential to equip them with the right tools that are safe, easy to handle, and appropriate for their age.
Here are some of the key tools that children may need for gardening:
Kid-Sized Gardening Gloves
These protect little hands from dirt, sharp objects, and potential allergens. Ensure the gloves are made from durable, washable material and fit your child’s hands comfortably.
Small Hand Trowel
A hand trowel is a versatile tool used for digging holes for planting, moving small amounts of earth, or weeding. Choose a lightweight, sturdy trowel with a comfortable grip for small hands.
Watering Can
A small, lightweight watering can help teach children about the importance of watering plants. Opt for a can with a detachable rose to control the water flow, preventing overwatering.
Child-Sized Rake
A small rake is perfect for kids to help with clearing leaves and other garden debris. Ensure the rake is lightweight and the right size for your child to handle safely.
Garden Fork
A garden fork is useful for turning soil and breaking up clumps of earth. Choose a fork with broad, rounded tines to minimize the risk of injury.
Bucket or Basket
A sturdy bucket or basket is useful for collecting weeds, transporting soil, or carrying harvested fruits and vegetables.
Markers and Crayons
These can be used by kids to label their plants. This not only adds a fun, creative element to gardening but also helps children learn to identify different plants.
How Can I Ensure My Child’s Safety While Gardening?
Ensuring your child’s safety while gardening is paramount.
Here are some key points to consider:
Supervision
Always supervise young children while they are gardening. This prevents accidents and provides an opportunity for learning and bonding.
Safe Tools
Provide children with tools that are appropriate for their age and size. Avoid sharp tools and machinery. Consider investing in a set of gardening tools designed specifically for children.
Garden Layout
Design your garden in a way that minimizes potential hazards. Avoid steep slopes, water features, and areas with thorny or poisonous plants.
Sun Protection
Protect your child from the sun by applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and gardening during cooler parts of the day.
Proper Clothing
Ensure your child is wearing appropriate clothing for gardening. This includes sturdy shoes, long pants, and gloves to protect against scratches and insect bites.
Hygiene
Teach your child about the importance of washing hands after gardening to prevent the spread of bacteria and other pathogens.
Chemical Safety
Keep fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals out of reach of children. Consider using organic alternatives whenever possible.
Insect and Animal Awareness
Teach your child to recognize and avoid harmful insects and animals, including bees, wasps, spiders, and snakes.
First Aid
Keep a first aid kit handy and ensure you can treat common gardening injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and insect bites.
How Can Gardening Help My Child Understand the Concept of Sustainability?
Gardening is an excellent platform to introduce the concept of sustainability to children. It provides a hands-on experience that can help children understand the importance of preserving our environment for future generations.
Here are some ways gardening can help your child understand sustainability:
Understanding the Life Cycle of Plants
Gardening can help children understand the life cycle of plants, from seed to fruit to seed again. This cyclical process is a fundamental concept in sustainability, emphasizing the importance of each stage in the life cycle and the need for balance in nature.
Composting
Composting is a key aspect of sustainable gardening. By composting kitchen scraps and garden waste, children can learn about waste reduction and the recycling of nutrients back into the soil. This process can help them understand the concept of a circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are continually reused.
Water Conservation
Gardening can also teach children about the importance of water conservation. Using techniques such as mulching and drip irrigation, children can learn how to use water efficiently and understand its value as a limited resource.
Biodiversity
By growing a variety of plants, children can learn about the importance of biodiversity in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. According to the NSW Biodiversity for Kids Teachers Guide, teaching children about biodiversity involves developing an understanding of the variety of plants and animals and their interactions within ecosystems.
The guide emphasizes practical activities, such as schoolyard biodiversity surveys and creating biodiversity action plans, to help students learn about plant and animal species, their habitats, and the importance of environmental stewardship. These activities aim to enhance students' knowledge of ecological concepts and their role in conserving biodiversity.
Organic Gardening
By avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides, children can learn about organic gardening practices that are healthier for the soil and the environment. This can help them understand the impact of human activities on the environment and the importance of choosing sustainable practices.
How Can I Motivate My Child to Take Care of the Plants?
Motivating children to take care of plants involves a combination of education, engagement, and encouragement.
Here are some strategies that can help:
Educate About the Importance of Plant Care
Start by explaining why plants need care. Discuss the role of water, sunlight, and nutrients in plant growth. Explain how plants are living beings that need attention and care to thrive. Use simple, age-appropriate language to make these concepts understandable.
Assign Responsibility
Give your child their own plant to care for. This could be a small indoor plant or a section of the garden. Make them responsible for watering, weeding, and monitoring the plant’s health. This hands-on experience can make the process more tangible and meaningful.
Set a Routine
Establish a regular plant care routine. This could involve checking the plants every morning, watering them at a specific time, or weeding once a week. A routine can help instill discipline and make plant care a regular part of your child’s day.
Celebrate Success
When a plant blooms or bears fruit, celebrate this success with your child. This can help them see the results of their hard work and motivate them to continue caring for their plants.
Use Visual Aids
Consider using growth charts or plant diaries to track the progress of the plants. This can make the process more interactive and help your child see the impact of their care.
What Are Some Ways to Teach Kids About Composting?
Teaching children about composting can be an enriching and educational experience. You can teach kids about composting effectively using the "Composting with Kids" guide, which provides clear instructions and engaging activities.
The guide explains composting basics, benefits, and suitable materials (browns and greens) while highlighting what not to compost. It includes a simple bucket composting method where kids can mix scraps and observe decomposition, making it a hands-on learning experience. Additionally, the printable pack offers interactive worksheets to reinforce learning through observation and documentation. This resource, created by Jennifer Miller, makes teaching composting both educational and fun. For detailed instructions and more activities, visit Composting with Kids, which provides valuable resources to enhance your teaching experience.
Here are some effective ways to introduce the concept of composting to kids:
Start with the Basics
Explain what composting is and why it’s important. Composting is the process of decomposing organic material into a nutrient-rich soil conditioner. It’s a natural way to recycle waste, reduce landfill, and enrich the soil in our gardens.
Show and Tell
Show them a compost pile or bin and explain what goes into it. You can use a simple chart to illustrate what can and cannot be composted.
Hands-On Experience
Let them participate in the composting process. They can help collect kitchen scraps, turn the compost pile, or observe the changes over time. This hands-on experience can make the learning process more engaging and memorable.
Science Experiment
Turn composting into a science experiment. Have them observe and record the decomposition process, measure the temperature of the compost pile, or identify the organisms involved in the composting process. This can help them understand the science behind composting and its role in the ecosystem.
Compost Art
Encourage them to create art or craft projects related to composting. They could draw a compost cycle, make a poster about the benefits of composting, or build a model of a compost bin. This can help reinforce their understanding of composting in a fun and creative way.
How Can I Teach My Child About the Different Types of Plants and Their Needs?
Teaching children about the different types of plants and their specific needs is a crucial part of their gardening education. This knowledge not only helps them understand the diversity of plant life but also equips them with the skills to care for a variety of plants.
Here are some strategies to effectively impart this knowledge:
Start with the Basics
Begin by explaining the basic needs of all plants - sunlight, water, air, and nutrients. Use simple language to explain how plants use these elements to grow and survive.
Introduce Different Plant Types
Once they understand the basics, introduce them to different types of plants. This could include flowering plants, fruit-bearing plants, vegetables, herbs, and trees. Explain how each type has unique characteristics and needs.
Use Visual Aids
Visual aids such as charts, diagrams, and pictures can be very helpful in teaching children about different types of plants. For instance, a chart showing different plant types and their sunlight or water requirements can be a useful reference tool.
Hands-On Learning
The best way for children to learn about different plants and their needs is through hands-on experience. Let them plant seeds, water plants, and observe their growth. This practical experience will give them a deeper understanding of plant needs.
Field Trips
Visits to local botanical gardens, nurseries, or parks can provide children with an opportunity to see a wide variety of plants. These trips can be educational and fun, making the learning process more engaging.
Use Books and Online Resources
There are numerous children’s books and online resources that provide information about different types of plants and their needs. These can be used to supplement hands-on learning and field trips.
Empower Your Child with the Joy of Gardening
Gardening offers a wealth of benefits for children, from enhancing physical development and cognitive skills to fostering emotional well-being and environmental stewardship. By introducing age-appropriate gardening activities, choosing the right plants and tools, and making gardening a fun and educational experience, parents can cultivate their child's interest and skills in gardening.
Remember to prioritize safety and incorporate engaging projects that teach sustainability and responsibility. Gardening not only helps children understand the natural world but also instills valuable life skills and a lifelong appreciation for the environment.
Start your gardening adventure today and watch your child bloom alongside your garden.
Definition of Terms
Sustainable Practices
Methods and techniques used in gardening that do not deplete natural resources and are environmentally friendly. Examples include composting kitchen waste and using rain barrels to collect water.
Biodiversity
The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat emphasizes the importance of species diversity. For example, a garden with multiple plant species and various insects.
Urban Ecology
The study of ecological processes in urban environments and the interactions between living organisms and their urban surroundings. For example, how birds and insects adapt to city parks.
Organic Gardening
Gardening without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, relying on natural processes and materials. For instance, using compost as fertilizer and ladybugs for pest control.
Botanical Garden
A garden dedicated to the collection, cultivation, and display of a wide range of plants, often for educational and conservation purposes. An example is the New York Botanical Garden.
Ecosystem
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms, such as plants, animals, and microorganisms, interacting with each other and their physical environment, like air, water, and soil, functioning as a unit. For example, a forest ecosystem includes trees, birds, insects, mammals, fungi, and the soil, all of which interact and depend on one another for survival.
Nutrient Cycle
The nutrient cycle refers to the movement and exchange of organic and inorganic matter back into the production of living matter, which is crucial for maintaining ecosystem health. For instance, in a garden, decomposed leaves and plant matter break down into nutrients that enrich the soil, which in turn supports the growth of new plants.
Environmental Stewardship
Environmental stewardship is the responsibility for environmental quality shared by all those whose actions affect the environment, emphasizing conservation and sustainable practices. An example of environmental stewardship is a community initiative to clean up a local river, implement recycling programs, and promote the use of renewable energy to reduce pollution and conserve natural resources.
References
- Stoecklin, V. L. (2009) 'My summers at Beanstalk Children’s Garden', GARDENING WITH CHILDREN, EXCHANGE MARCH/APRIL. Available at: https://libanswers.dominican.edu/loader?fid=361&type=1&key=fc3830a63d27caf9c4056b39535d034a (Accessed: 13 June 2024).
- Charland, D. (2023) When Can Kids Start Gardening?, Connecting Communities to the Land. Available at: https://seewhatgrows.org/when-can-kids-start-gardening/ (Accessed: 13 June 2024).
- Canaris, I. (1995) ‘Growing Foods for Growing Minds: Integrating Gardening and Nutrition Education into the Total Curriculum’, Children’s Environments, 12(2), pp. 264–270. Available at: https://www.jstor.org/stable/41503435
- Aragón, L., Inés Ortega-Cubero and Eugenio-Gozalbo, M. (2023) ‘Are gardens useful for promoting early age science education? Evidence from analysis of children’s drawings’, Interdisciplinary journal of environmental and science education, 19(4), pp. e2320–e2320. Available at: https://doi.org/10.29333/ijese/13727
- Eugenio-Gozalbo, M., Aragón, L. and Ortega-Cubero, I. (2020) ‘Gardens as Science Learning Contexts Across Educational Stages: Learning Assessment Based on Students’ Graphic Representations’, Frontiers in Psychology, 11. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02226
- Monferrer, L., Lorenzo-Valentín, G. and Santágueda-Villanueva, M. (2022) ‘Mathematical and Experimental Science Education from the School Garden: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Practice’, Education Sciences, 12(1), p. 47. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci12010047
- Stage 2 Science -Teacher’s Guide, a project initiative under the NSW Biodiversity Strategy (no date). Available at: https://www.dcnanature.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/NSW-Biodiversityfor-Kids-TeachersGuide.pdf (Accessed: 13 June 2024).
- Composting for Kids (no date). Available at: https://extension.uga.edu/content/dam/extension-county-offices/jeff-davis-county/4h/Composting%20with%20Kids.pdf