Kids & Company Blog

I’m not sure what Kermit was Talking About… It’s Easy Being Green!

This past weekend, the sun was shining and the temperatures, though still quite chilly, were definitely warming up. Spring is in the air! The moment the seasons change I find myself thinking of the different fruits and vegetables I will grow in my garden. Produce harvested from your own backyard provides many benefits. You are able to grow many delicious and healthy options, you reduce your grocery bill and best of all, everything tastes better! Usually your produce will sit on a truck, then on a supermarket shelf before ending up on your table. When the produce is coming from your own garden it makes its way from the ground to your table in minutes! Plus, you can limit the amount of pesticides, if any, you use.

Even though my children are (almost!) all grown up I still remember how excited they were to learn in their younger years. This spring, why not teach your children how plants grow? You and your children can plant a garden right inside your own home. I found this simple activity and knew I had to share it.

 

What you need:

• Glass jar or clear cup
• Paper towel
• Water
• Soil
• Seeds

 

Helpful tips: For your container clear is key. This helps your child see the changes that are happening. Try to choose plants that are quick to germinate to keep your toddlers or preschoolers interested in the growing progress. Bean seeds, lima beans, sunflower seeds, and kidney beans are great options.

 

 

What to do:

1. Start by growing your plant without any soil. This way your child can see the changes the seed goes through. A wet, crumpled up paper towel is a great substitute. Crumple up the paper towel and place it in your jar.

2. Sprinkle a couple of seeds into the jar. Keep the seeds close to the sides of the jar so your child can see when the roots begin to grow.

3. Water enough to soak the paper towel. You can have your child to use a small cup as their watering can.

4. Have your child find the perfect spot in the house for their plant. A sunny spot on a windowsill is great. You can have your child keep a journal of their plant’s progress. Have them talk about what they see and the changes that are made each day. You can take pictures too!

5. Once you feel your plant is large enough or you’re noticing the roots are running out of room, you can move your plant to a pot or a larger container. Remember that your container needs to have a couple of drainage holes on the bottom.

I’m not really sure what Kermit was talking about… its easy being green!

 

Cheers!

 

Chef Lisa Ruscica

Chief Food Ambassador

Kids & Company

Posted on: Wednesday March 27th, 2013

Posted by: Lisa Ruscica