On March 11, Scarlet Welborn, Infant-Toddler TA Specialist, talked with WGHP Fox 8’s Cindy Farmer about the benefits of gardening with little ones during the morning news show’s Mommy Matters segment. 
Gardening is a great way to engage all the senses, which is exactly what infants and toddlers need. Here are the takeaways from their conversation.
Gardening is great for tactile and sensory learning. The texture of the dirt, smell of the plants, and feeling the cool or hot weather all boost sensory development. Ways to encourage tactile experiences with your little ones include encouraging Baby to move back and forth across the grass and through mud and dirt. Let baby poke holes in the dirt and then drop in seeds. Let Baby help pour water and then splash the stream as it comes out of the hose or watering can.
Gardening builds a sense of pride. When little ones see the seedling push through the dirt, then the plant as it grows stronger, then the vegetable or flower when it appears, they enjoy the same feeling of accomplishment and wonder that you do. They begin to understand the work it takes to grow food or flowers. They learn to take care of their plants, which helps build a foundation for independence. And best of all, when Baby helps grow vegetables and herbs, they’re more likely to try those new foods.
Embrace the mess. Since infants and toddlers learn best through hands-on sensory experiences, we have to be willing to let them get dirty. With infants especially, just make sure that they are able to sit up or stand on their own and that you are right there with them through the experience. The messier Baby gets, the more Baby explored through movement and play in the natural environment, which is great for connecting neural paths in the brain.
Gardening helps young children self-regulate. The texture and smell of the dirt has a calming effect for all of us, Baby included. Feeling the wind blow encourages Baby to take a moment to breathe. Being active releases endorphins that make Baby feel good.
So, take advantage of the warmer weather and sunshine as you garden with your infants and toddlers. Not only does it promote healthy brain growth, it’s a healthy hobby they may carry with them right into adulthood!
