Children in the Landscape
A few generations ago, most children spent their waking hours outside playing every chance they got. Now, that is no longer the case. Much has been written and studied about the effects of this separation from nature in books like “Last Child in the Woods” by Richard Louv, and the effects are worrisome. While most parents these days are not ready to turn the kids out of the house for the day, everyone can add some simple elements to the home landscape to draw kids and adults alike outside to reconnect with the natural environment.
Water is not only appealing to children, but to wildlife as well. It doesn’t have to be anything elaborate – a big clay pot with a small fountain will draw birds and frogs and ultimately your kids. Pop in a few water plants and a few cheap feeder fish from the pet store and you’ve got a little aquatic environment for observation.
Collect downed sticks from forested areas and teach your kids how to make a teepee. Kids naturally love to crawl inside cozy spaces. If you have a spot to leave it up for the summer, plant flowering vines, such as blue morning glories or moonflowers at the base of each stick and soon the structure will be covered and hummingbirds will visit while your child and friends hang out inside.
Nearly every yard, no matter how large or small, can fit in a small vegetable patch. There’s nothing more satisfying than planting some seeds and eventually eating what you grow. With a little help, kids can grow tomatoes, greens, potatoes, strawberries, and kiwis, even in small spaces.
Flowers are appealing to almost everyone. A well planned perennial and herb area provides a haven for butterflies and bees which are fascinating to watch as they go about their business. Take a minute to watch the obvious goings on and then look a little closer to see what else is happening. In the middle of a daisy may be a well disguised crab spider just waiting for an unsuspecting meal or perhaps there is a monarch caterpillar feeding on milkweed leaves readying itself for the magical transformation into a butterfly.
Introducing children to the wonders of nature in their own backyards, they will feel inspired to investigate further afield. Who knows? You might even find them building a fort in the woods with their friends instead of being glued to the TV all summer. Everyone benefits when that happens.