Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-14” author: “Raymond Yuhasz”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-23” author: “Walter Lamb”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-22” author: “Jerry Golojuch”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-27” author: “Linda Marquez”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-08-29” author: “Lori Caron”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-12” author: “James King”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-08” author: “Ignacia Wilusz”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-13” author: “Staci Wade”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-02” author: “Eric Frank”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-10-05” author: “Lindsey Canela”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-08-28” author: “Matthew Suarez”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-29” author: “Jerome Robinson”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-16” author: “Cody Kramer”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-28” author: “Moses Rodriguez”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-06” author: “Melinda Ping”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-28” author: “Helen Fields”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-08-31” author: “Marjorie Wright”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.

title: “Intergenerational Gardening How To Grow Together At Any Age” ShowToc: true date: “2024-09-14” author: “Joel Hurd”

What Is Intergenerational Gardening?

Intergenerational activities in the garden involve shared garden projects among two or more generations of people. Most often, it includes seniors with decades of gardening knowledge, and often some experience working with and mentoring children. These gardens are organized by many different groups. Assisted living centers and senior residences might start a garden and invite children of staff or grandchildren to join for activities. Community centers, community gardens, and local garden clubs are increasingly hosting intergenerational activities. Sometimes, older adults initiate local groups specifically to share their expertise with younger members of the community. They might bring their skills to schools or begin a community garden.

Benefits of Intergenerational Gardening

The basic goal of an intergenerational garden is for older adults to teach young people gardening skills, but there are many more benefits. These extend to both the children and the older population.

For Kids

An obvious benefit for children gardening with older adults is that they learn valuable skills. Kids can benefit from the decades of experience of older adults who have spent a lifetime growing plants. Other benefits for children include:

A chance to spend more time outside and in nature, and access to healthy foodsDeveloping a sense of responsibility for plants and their outdoor spaceImproved self-esteem from developing new skills and seeing their efforts succeedLearning respect for older adults and developing positive attitudes about agingDeveloping ongoing relationships with seniors in their communityA better understanding of where their food comes from

For Older Adults

Intergenerational activities like gardening give seniors a chance to pass on their experience, knowledge, and skills to a younger generation. They also get many benefits from working with kids in the garden, including:

Enjoying a meaningful and rewarding hobbySharing the personal tips and tricks they’ve learned in gardening over the yearsDeveloping meaningful relationships that might extend beyond the gardenUnderstanding the younger generations and the challenges they faceA chance to get outside and be more physically active

How to Start an Intergenerational Garden

The benefits of gardening for all ages are clear, but where to begin? Start by bringing together two appropriate groups. This could be a preschool and a local garden club or an elementary school and a senior center. Next, you’ll need to find a space for a garden if your group doesn’t already have a single location. The garden could be at the senior living facility or at the children’s school. Local government agencies and businesses might also be willing to get involved and provide a public space. There should be a group of adults in charge of the project, representing both the seniors and the children. The group could be the seniors themselves or senior center staff, along with teachers, administrators, or parents of children. Together, this group should decide on common goals and shared expectations for the garden. Once you have a garden, create a plan for what to grow and a schedule of meetings and activities for the two groups to come together. Educators can help older folks plan activities that are age-appropriate for the children. For instance, preschoolers can make crafts or sow seeds, while older elementary students might be ready to engage in more advanced gardening activities. Starting a garden where seniors and children can benefit and learn from each other is not a simple undertaking, but it is worthwhile. Create a plan first, and make sure you have the right people on your team to help make an intergenerational garden a success.