Objective

By the end of this lesson, the 2-year-old student will be able to explore and engage in physical activities related to gardening, while also developing an understanding of basic science concepts.

Materials and Prep

• Outdoor space (backyard, garden, or park)
• Gardening tools (child-size shovel, watering can, gloves)
• Seeds or small plants
• Water source (hose or watering can)
• Sunscreen and hat (for sun protection)

Before the lesson, make sure the outdoor space is safe and free from any potential hazards. Familiarize yourself with basic gardening techniques and prepare the necessary tools and materials.

Activities

• Planting Seeds: Help the student plant seeds in a designated garden area. Show them how to dig a small hole, place the seed inside, cover it with soil, and gently water it.
• Watering Plants: Teach the student how to use a watering can to water the plants. Show them how to pour water gently around the base of the plants.
• Identifying Plants: Take a walk around the garden and point out different plants and flowers. Encourage the student to touch and smell them, while explaining their names and characteristics.
• Garden Yoga: Engage the student in simple yoga poses inspired by garden elements. For example, pretend to be a tall tree, a blooming flower, or a buzzing bee.
• Garden Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items commonly found in a garden, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, or insects. Help the student find and collect these items while discussing their importance in the garden ecosystem.

Talking Points

• "Plants need soil, water, and sunlight to grow big and strong, just like you need food, water, and sleep to grow big and strong."
• "Seeds are like tiny sleeping plants. When we plant them in the soil and water them, they wake up and start growing."
• "Watering the plants helps them drink and stay hydrated, just like we drink water to stay healthy."
• "Plants come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. Some have pretty flowers, while others have big leaves."
• "Yoga can help us stretch our bodies and feel calm, just like the plants sway in the breeze and enjoy the sunshine."
• "Insects like bees and butterflies visit flowers to collect nectar. They help plants make new seeds by spreading pollen from one flower to another."