Hello Montessori n' Such Community,
Spring is here—and there’s no better time to dig into the joys of gardening with young children! In true Montessori fashion, gardening is more than just an outdoor activity—it’s a beautiful blend of Practical Life, Science, and Sensorial learning wrapped up in sunshine and soil. From watering and weeding to planting and harvesting, gardening helps children build independence, coordination, and responsibility.
In the garden, children naturally become scientists, explorers, and caretakers. They observe how the sun and water help things grow, notice the buzzing bees and wiggly worms, and use all their senses as they smell herbs, touch soil, and watch sprouts rise. It’s hands-on science in the most joyful way.
Montessori Connections in the Garden:
● Practical Life: Watering, digging, sweeping, and caring for plants build fine motor skills and a sense of order.
● Sensorial: Texture, color, scent, and temperature—gardens are full of sensorial invitations!
● Language: Introduce vocabulary like stem, sprout, root, and blossom.
● Math: Count petals, measure plant growth, or sort seeds.
● Grace & Courtesy: Taking turns with tools, caring for living things, and working together builds empathy and social skills.
Tips for Gardening with Children:
● Start small: A container garden or a few pots on a windowsill is a great beginning.
● Let them lead: Offer real tools sized for little hands and invite them to choose what to plant.
● Be patient: Gardening is full of lessons in waiting, observing, and trying again.
● Keep it joyful: Sing while you water, read garden books, or make flower crowns for pretend play!
As Maria Montessori said, “There must be provision for the child to have contact with nature; to understand and appreciate the order, the harmony and the beauty in nature.”
Spring is the perfect season to nurture that connection and watch it grow—just like your little ones.
-The Montessori n' Such Team
