It can be a lot of work to keep young ones having fun. While many turn to sugar-filled treats to bring the party vibes, plants and flowers are also sweet enough!
Party foods can be plant-y foods too
It doesn’t have to be vegan or a strictly plant-based recipe to show kids how cool plants are – flowers and leaves are the perfect decorations for a cake, or you can serve food on banana leaves (check out your local Asian grocer).
Add a garden twist to party activities and games
Here are some easy ideas to try:
- add a cute twist to a tried-and-true classic with pin the bee on the flower
- Get kids to race in a watering can relay, using small plastic watering cans
- Use banana leaves for pass the parcel
If you want to take plant-based activities to the next level, here are some more complicated ideas:
Flower crowns
Using daisies to make flower crowns is fun and free, although younger guests may need a little help. You can prepare them in the morning ahead of when your guests arrive. They also work as bracelets if you’re short on time.
Terracotta pot painting
You can buy small pots that kids can easily work with from just about any local nursery or garden centre. You’ll need sponge brushes, acrylic paints and some biodegradable paper plates to use as a palate. It’s also a good idea to tell parents to bring a spare t-shirt so the kits don’t ruin their party outfits.
Planting table
Depending on how many spare pairs of adults hands you have, having a planting session that is easy for kids will keep them occupied and show them how easy gardening is.
Plant-y party bags
Have you ever arrived at the end of a birthday party, to have your child(ren) returned to you loaded to the gills with sugar AND given a goodie bag with even more sweet treats? The good news is that party bags don’t need to be filled with lollies – you can keep kids happy with seed packets, junior-sized gardening gloves, fresh fruit or even a small plant.
Got a question on kid-friendly plants and gardening tips? Talk to an expert at your local plant nursery.
