Page 14 - Outdoor Living October 2024

LIFESTYLE

THE MAGIC

OF GROWING

UP IN A GARDEN

or many of us, the garden was while digging for "treasures" or the thrill 1. The Mud Kitchen
more than just a patch of grass — of finding an ant colony could spark A mud kitchen is an incredible source
Fit was a place where imagination endless curiosity. Whether it was the of imaginative play. Equipped with a
took flight. As children, we transformed rustling of leaves overhead or the cool few old pots, pans, and a water source,
humble backyards into vast kingdoms, shade of a tree, these experiences children can “cook” mud pies, craft
laboratories for scientific discoveries, became the backdrop of our childhood imaginary soups, and host backyard
and adventurous playgrounds. adventures. feasts. This tactile play strengthens fine
Investigating bugs, building forts, motor skills, while the open-ended nature
making mud pies, and even daring Encouraging Creativity of the activity encourages creativity.
to drink from the hose were all part Through Play
of the adventure. A garden provided As parents, we want to recreate these 2. Bug Investigations
the perfect canvas for young minds to magical moments for our children. Set up a "bug hotel" using hollowed-out
dream, create, and explore. Gardens can once again be a logs, leaves, and small stones. Encourage
sanctuary of creativity and discovery. children to observe, learn, and even draw
In those moments, surrounded by the Designing spaces that encourage free the insects they find. The simple act of
simple beauty of nature, we became play and exploration can inspire a love watching ants march or butterflies flutter
explorers, architects, and storytellers. for nature while supporting your child's around sparks curiosity about the natural
The feel of soft dirt between fingers development. world.

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