Water the plants
Watering plants can be a playful, mindful moment for all ages
Watering plants is more than just keeping them alive—it’s a sensory-rich, calming activity for all ages. Little ones can develop responsibility and motor skills as they carefully pour water onto thirsty leaves, while grownups can take a mindful moment to reset.
Try using different containers like spray bottles, cups, or sponges to change things up. Add a playful twist by pretending to be plant doctors checking on their ‘patients’ or by singing a ‘rain’ song as you water.
Whether you’re...
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Fill a watering can or cup with water.
Step 2:
Choose plants that need watering.
Step 3:
If indoors, you might like to place a towel underneath to catch spills.
Play
Step 1:
Show your child how to gently pour or spray water onto the soil.
Step 2:
Let them explore watering different plants, noticing the soil changing colour when wet.
Step 3:
Encourage them to check which plants might be thirsty and decide how much water to give.
Step 4:
If they enjoy it, extend play by adding a shallow water bin for scooping and pouring.
Extend
Leaf Bath: Use a damp sponge or cloth to gently wipe dust off large leaves
Ice Cube Watering: Let them place ice cubes around plant bases and watch them melt.
Growth Check: Take photos of plants each week to track their growth and compare changes over time.
