Gardening is a wonderful opportunity to get your children involved in outdoor work that is fun, productive, and educational with a splash of whimsy. One of the most beautiful sights is that of a young child sifting through soil and finding gems such as earthworms, teeny tiny centipedes, and other insects. They notice things that we might often overlook or not even see in the first place, which makes them great gardening buddies! Seeing the world through a child’s eye, especially when it comes to gardening reminds us of the wonder and vitality all around us.

To begin, it helps to get your child their own set of gardening tools. Giving a child an adult size rake is like suiting them up in an extra-large swimsuit for a day at the beach. They could probably find a way to make it work but it wouldn’t be the most productive use of everyone’s time and energy. Here is a list of my favorite gardening tools for children:

1. A good Gardening Tool Set: (Rake, Spade Shovel,  & Hoe) 

Choose tools that are just their size. This will help the child build confidence, independence, and ownership over their work. Learn more HERE.

2. Gardening Gloves:

These can be helpful for children who may be particularly sensory. If a child shows an aversion to getting muddy these are a perfect work-around! Learn more HERE.

3. Hand rake:

Great for pulling all those weeds! Learn more HERE. 

4. Gardening apron:

Donning an apron can be a simple signal that they are about to do important work. They love the feeling of confidence and importance it can offer. Try these Baker Ross AW266 Fabric Waist Aprons and invite children to personalize and embellish. Learn more HERE.

5. Wheelbarrow:

Heavy lifting and pushing are incredibly beneficial for young children. This is a tool that they will use for years and it often leads to creative play, even when there is no gardening to do! Wheelbarrows come in all shapes and sizes. Choose one that fits your children and garden needs. Learn more HERE.

6. Watering can:

Just a small one will do so that they can easily fill, lift and carry it around the garden independently. Learn more HERE.

7. Shovel:

A small hand shovel is a great investment and may even find its way over to your mud kitchen! Learn more HERE. 

Gardening with kids can be transformative when you have the correct tools.

Janet Phillips tells us, “Why try to explain miracles to your children child when you can have them plant a garden?” 

What’s your favorite gardening tool for kids? Share in the comments below. 

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