1. Good Organic Gardening - January-February 2016

Kids in the garden | WEEKEND GARDENING
NATURE
AND NURTURE
There’s no better time than school holidays to turn
your garden into a nature playground for the kids
Words & photos Claire Bickle
I
strongly believe that in any child’s
life, time spent the garden is
an important stepping stone to
understanding the greater picture
of the natural world around them.
Our children are the next in line to be
the caretakers of this amazing, beautiful,
fragile planet we call home. Now, more than
ever, there are too many distractions and
entertainments that don’t involve nature at
all. We are seeing children parked in front
of screens for hours on end, resulting in
considerable health, mental and weight issues.
Nature Deficit Disorder is becoming a thing.
And what of the health issues of the
planet? If the next generation has no
connection to it, how and why will they care?
But enough doom and gloom. If you’re
reading this magazine you’re on a good path.
Now it’s time to share that passion with your
children, your grandchildren, the next-door
neighbour’s children, even possibly your local
school, daycare centre or community garden.
Dandelion days ... finding
beauty in the simplest things
Creating a successful mix of garden and nature
will ensure that your children will grow up and
look back on their childhood with fond memories of
the gardens and outdoor areas they played in.
A lovely little ladybeetle
Good Organic Gardening | 47