Plots of fun for all
WE’RE often reminded about the benefits of getting outdoors and one of the best places to find a bit of familyfriendly fun and get fresh air at the same time is your local allotment site.
There is a host of open days and events during National Allotments Week (August 12-16) and they’re a great way to get a taster of allotment life.
Families can find out about how to put their name down for a plot and also pick up some “grow your own” tips which you can even use in your own back garden or yard.
But, all year round, gardening tasks are a great opportunity for children to learn. They can experience the different smells, tastes and textures of plants; witness the cycle of the seasons, measure the growth of seedlings, count the number of caterpillars and weigh the strawberry crop.
Be prepared to garden in short
bursts with young children though! Your child may be more interested in making mud pies, collecting worms or digging pointless holes, but these are valuable childhood pastimes and only to be encouraged.
Children who have planted seeds and watched a crop develop are much more likely to eat vegetables routinely and establish enduring healthy eating habits, and be conscious of the natural world around them.
National Allotment Society President, Phil Gomersall, says: “Family activities on the plot are great fun for all concerned and help to encourage the plotholders of the future.”
Today’s allotment sites welcome children and families, many have toilets and some run gardening clubs for children and local schools.
■ For ideas for gardening with children and events, go to nsalg.org.uk