| By :
Victoria Gates
Nearly every-day on the news you hear of environmental issues and problems. While some people do care the vast majority of people are simply not concerned or may not know what they can do to change those problems around. If we want the world to really change it starts with bringing the next generation up with parenting methods that teach them healthier habits. It is heartwarming to see children involved with environment-friendly activities. One such nature-friendly activity that children could easily get involved with is gardening using natural mulches such as pine straw. When you involve your child or children in planting a garden, your child is indirectly taught the wonders of science. They learn about a plant's life cycle, and how soil preparation, water, and natural mulch can help a plant grow to its full potential. They will have that essential firsthand experience of the miracle of growth through planting a seed. Watching a tiny seed they planted themselves grow into a majestic tree teaches them the value of hard work and patience. Over time, your child will learn to love their plants and appreciate the life in them. Many children are excited to see their plants grow over the weeks, months, and even over many years. Some families have a tradition of planting one new tree for each member of the family. Other families grow vegetable or herb gardens every year so they have fresh home-grown produce on hand. Some studies have shown that gardening can reduce overall stress in both adults and children due to the calming effect of slowing down and focusing on a simple task. Many children feel stress from school, peer pressure, homework, and chores just like adults have the stress from work and various household tasks. Many parents find that as they spend quality time in the garden with their child, they strengthen the bond shared between them. It is wonderful to imagine a few moments where you can forget all about your stressful work life for a while and simply be soothed by the lovely ambiance in the garden. Spending this rare quality time with your children in this hectic life is something that they will remember, cherish, and most-likely tell their own children about someday. You can talk while watering the plants, or in the case of older children, you can even simply work quietly next each other. The main idea here is to consider sharing your joy of gardening with your children, or if gardening is new to you as well, why not discover it with them? You will more than likely also learn a lot of new things about your child or children while enjoying time with them. Gardening is the perfect step towards helping your children become aware of the environment around them.
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