Homeschool Gardening: Easy, Hands-on, Science-based Projects for Growing Fruits, Vegetables, and Flowers with Your Children

Easy to Use - Nature-based - Homeschool Proven

Head outdoors for exploration and learning with Homeschool Gardening. This guide is tailored for parents seeking to find wholesome ways to spend time outdoors with their children and integrate science-based gardening projects into outdoor learning.

Why Choose Homeschool Gardening?

• Educational Enrichment: Inspire a love of learning by integrating Charlotte Mason’s principles of outdoor education, nurturing your child’s natural curiosity, and fostering hands-on growth.
• Practical Guidance: Get step-by-step instructions on how to start and maintain a garden, with actionable tips from Chapter Two to bring your garden to life.
• Nature Connection: Cultivate a deeper connection to the natural world through nature journaling in Chapter Three and exploring the foundations of natural science in Chapter Four.

Activities for Building Skills and Appreciation

Explore a variety of engaging projects designed to foster observation skills, creativity, and a love for nature:

1. Nature Walk and Observation: Encourage children to explore gardens and natural areas, observing and documenting plant and insect details to enhance their journaling skills.
2. Planting Seeds: Teach children about biology and patience as they nurture seeds into plants, fostering responsibility and understanding of the growth process.
3. Creating a Compost Bin: Build a compost bin and introduce children to recycling and ecology, teaching sustainability and the importance of decomposition.
4. Garden Scavenger Hunt: Organize a fun hunt to find and learn about various plants and insects, enhancing observational skills and knowledge of garden features.
5. Observing Weather and Seasons: Track daily weather changes and their impact on the garden, integrating science and geography through detailed observations.
6. Creating a Miniature Garden: Combine gardening with artistic expression, teaching plant biology and design skills through small garden projects.
7. Building Garden Projects: Engage in hands-on activities like creating bean pole trellises or nature wreaths, blending practical skills with creativity.
8. Watching Insects: Encourage children to observe and appreciate insect behaviors, fostering wonder and respect for these vital creatures.
9. Harvesting and Cooking: Involve children in harvesting and cooking garden produce, teaching about nutrition, life cycles, and essential culinary skills.

A Journey of Learning and Growth

More than just a guide, Homeschool Gardening invites you to embrace the messiness of gardening and the unpredictability of nature alongside your children. Celebrate every small victory and learning moment, whether you're a seasoned gardener or a novice. This book provides countless ideas to help you cultivate a love of learning and nature within your family.

Join author Sheila Carroll, a homeschooling parent and creator of Living Books Press, on this enriching journey.