Looking for the perfect stocking stuffer for “rookie” parents, “third-times-the-charm” parents, or even “been-there-done-that” grandparents? You’re in luck! Gryphon House is counting down our favorite picks for parents. Whether you’re looking to spice up a holiday road trip, explore some exciting art activities, or bring out your baby’s “baby smarts,” we’ve got a book for that!
Curious kids (and parents) will discover their green thumbs with the fun-filled gardening activities in The Budding Gardener. With a little dirt, some water, and few tools, the 50 activities in this book will bring you and your child together to share some magical outdoor moments.
Mini-Terrarium
Kids will enjoy making their own mini-gardens in the winter!
What You’ll Need:
- A clear glass or plastic container with a wide opening (a goldfish bowl or a small fish tank is ideal)
- A few small plants (Visit a garden center and look for small houseplants. Ivy and asparagus ferns are hardy and usually do well. For flowers, you might choose violas, small petunias, or miniature African violets.)
- Colorful aquarium rocks or other small gravel
- Newspapers or an old plastic tablecloth to cover your work area
- Plastic measuring cup or other cup, for scooping dirt
- Potting soil
What to Do:
- Spread old newspaper or an old plastic tablecloth over your work area.
- Set out the container. Your child should fill it about ¼ full with colorful rocks or gravel.
- Now, using the cup, he can scoop potting soil into the container, filling it to about the halfway mark.
- Demonstrate how to remove the plants from their plastic nursery pots.
- With his small hands, let him make holes in the dirt and plant the little plants in the fish bowl. Press the dirt firmly around the roots and add a little more dirt if needed to keep them in place.
- Water the terrarium.
- For clean-up, bundle the excess potting soil in the old newspaper or tablecloth and take it outside.
- Place the indoor mini-garden near a sunny window but not in direct sun, and water it about twice a week. Do not over water this enclosed space! Your child may need guidance, but he will enjoy the responsibility of watering.
Author(s)Mary B. Rein
Jenna Roby
A graduate of High Point University, Jenna Roby served as marketing specialist for Gryphon House from 2013-2015.
