Family Herb Corner

A Child's Garden of Herbs 

Introduction (continued)

Peter Rabbit welcomes children to enter his garden and learn about herbs. Peter Rabbit's Garden is located at Parkside School in Powell, Wyoming.  Image courtesy of Lola Cleavinger.

Patient and tolerant, herbs are very adaptable to various growing conditions. Children differ in their interests, personalities and aptitudes. Herb gardens can be just as unique and individual as the child or group planning and planting a garden. Schoolyard gardens can be integrated into school curriculum to be used as living laboratories. Gardens and outdoor spaces can teach the most important lesson of science --- the ability to observe. It is much easier to instill a fundamental part of science into children using a garden, rather than a dull classroom lecture. Actually experiencing the lessons with a hands on approach could transform a child's knowledge. In a computer class they can record rain fall and chart plant growth rates. Students can explore the effects of plants on civilizations in social studies. Actually bringing plants mentioned in children's literature into the classroom can bring stories/histories alive. Tasting Peter Rabbit's chamomile tea, holding Ophelia's bouquet help make the language of flowers real in Beatrix Potter's stories and William Shakespeare's tales of life and love real. 

There are many fine reasons for wanting to introduce children to gardening. We need to realize, as adults, that a child must have a child's reasons for wanting to grow a garden. No matter how we plot and plan and reason why and how children should practice gardening, the most important thing is to inspire children for their own personal enjoyment and growth. We are cultivating more than gardens, we are cultivating a sensitivity and appreciation for the environment, an important step toward becoming responsible and joyful stewards of the earth.

Next section:  Theme Gardens

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