These gift ideas are for young gardeners and nature lovers
Are you looking for a way to introduce the children in your life to the countless benefits of gardening and nature? These gift ideas for young gardeners and nature lovers may help you to find the perfect present. Look for these gift ideas in garden supply shops, nurseries, nature-themed shops and bookstores, as well as online venues.
Age-appropriate books introduce the concepts of plants and insects encountered in the garden. For audiences ages 1 to 5, “How I Grow: The Story of a Little Plants Life Cycle“ by Natalie Anne is a heartwarming book told from the point of view of a plant. This book teaches about a plant’s life cycle, the requirements for growing a plant, and the importance of bees.
Introduce children of the same age group to the world of insects and the life cycle of the beloved butterfly with Eric Carle’s “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” For young children in preschool, kindergarten or first grade who are hesitant to spend time outdoors, “Outside In” by Deborah Underwood is a fantastic book that shows how connected we are to the outside world.
School-age gardeners might appreciate a magazine subscription focused on their favorite animals and other nature-related topics. Two fine examples are Ranger Rick and National Geographic Kids. Both of these magazines have a ‘little kid’ or ‘junior’ version tailored to children who are ages 3 to 6, while the traditional version is appropriate for ages 6 and older.
For older children who attend summer camps, consider a week at a day or overnight camp focused on nature. These magazines and camp experiences can inspire and sustain a love of the outdoors.
Adolescents may appreciate online webinars taught through Penn State Extension and other educational venues.
Garden tools and supplies are a must-have for children of all ages who want to assist in the garden. Look for gifts such as a sun hat, garden boots and garden gloves in garden-supply stores locally and online. Select items that can be easily washed. A set of children’s gardening tools makes a perfect gift for gardeners age 7 and older; select tools that are well-built and will last for many gardening seasons.
Young gardeners who desire a hands-on approach to learning about nature would appreciate the gifts of a bug catcher, butterfly net, critter case, toad house, bat box and native bee houses. These items provide children with the opportunity to observe, investigate, and follow the life cycles of insects.
For example, Carson makes a Bug View Tool with a built-in magnifying glass, and Beetle and Bee make well-crafted wooden butterfly nets and critter enclosures. (The Carson tool also allows for a quick catch and release for unwanted houseguests).
If you know a budding conservationist at reading ages 8 to 12, give them “Nature's Best Hope (Young Readers' Edition): How You Can Save the World in Your Own Yard” by Dr. Doug Tallamy and adapted by Sarah L. Thomson. Adapted from Tallamy’s “Nature's Best Hope,” this book is an easily understandable introduction to conservation. It also provides ideas to get children involved in Tallamy’s grassroots approach to conservation by planting native plants. Consider providing a portion of your yard so that they can select native plants to grow and maintain.
No matter what gift you give to a young gardener or naturalist, the most important gift of all is time together, shared in the garden and outdoors. The habits and approaches to outdoor conservation and ecological efforts will stay with them for a lifetime.
If you have questions about potential gifts, call the Master Gardeners of Butler County Garden Hotline at 724-287-4761, ext. 7, or email the Master Gardeners at butlermg@psu.edu.
Amanda McWilliams is a Penn State Extension Butler County Master Gardener.
