Physical benefits

Gardening offers a variety of ways to get active. This could be hard, physical tasks like moving compost and digging or more gentle movement to keep the body active and develop fine motor skills.  

We find that children are instinctively drawn to activities in the garden that make them feel good. Whether it's burning off energy whilst turning compost or loosening tight muscles with some gentle planting, there is something for everyone in the garden.

Mental wellbeing

We all know that being outdoors feels good, but why exactly does gardening have such a powerful effect on our wellbeing?

The answer is not straightforward and is likely to be the result of a combination of factors. But the evidence is now strong with numerous studies finding links between gardening and being outside in nature and improved mental health.

Learning opportunities

With surveys showing that children can often name more brand logos than plants, there is a need to redress the balance in today's society and teach our children where their food comes from.

Hands on learning in a natural environment is much more effective than trying to learn about food growing in a classroom. Plus, outdoor learning has been shown to have a positive effect on subsequent engagement and behaviour in the classroom.

Nature connection

Nature connection is vital for healthy development - physically, emotionally and mentally. Spending time outdoors helps children feel grounded, calm and more in tune with themselves and the world around them.

In nature, children can explore freely, use their senses and engage in unstructured play that sparks curiosity and creativity. It offers a powerful antidote to busy lives and the screen-based nature of modern life, giving children space to breathe, move and simply be.

Community building

Gardening provides an opportunity to connect with others without the pressure which is often felt on play dates or in the school playground.

Many gardening tasks lend themselves to teamwork or working alongside others with the option for more solitary tasks when required.

A shared sense of achievement when things go right - and loss when plants don't grow as we would like  -connects us in a really meaningful way.