As a mother, one of the most rewarding experiences is sharing the wonders of nature with your child. Lately, my toddler daughter and I have been spending a hefty amount of time exploring the world of gardening and birdwatching right from the comfort of our patio balcony. In fact, you can follow along on TikTok @justbrennonblog.
Creating a Toddler Garden
Our journey began about a month ago when I purchased some seed kits from the dollar stores and took my daughter shopping for some plants and flowers that were ready to be taken home. From there, we began talking about each container and she waters everything daily. And, if we are being honest here, she overwaters everything.
But, that’s okay, because this journey is for her to learn, grow, and explore. There is nothing really wrong or off-limits for her during this phase. Every task is an opportunity for learning and bonding.
To make the space even more personalized, I ordered some tin signs online that speak to her personality and the variety of seeds that have been planted. One of my favorite signs, says, “Garden Tours 5 cents”. I love this for both of us.
Birdwatching and Bird Feeders
Aside from the container garden, our patio balcony is also a miniature sanctuary for birds. I started with one bird feeder that I ended up breaking before we could even use it fully and our new bird feeder by Nature’s Hangout on Amazon.
In addition to the bird feeders, I found a project on Pinterest about using empty cartons as planters. I liked the idea and decided to try it on my own. I used two cartons and upcycled them by covering them with wallpaper, filling them with soil, and adding wildflower seeds for hummingbirds. It’s only been a week and they are already sprouting.
Window Bird Feeder by Nature’s Hangout on Amazon
We immediately loved the Window Bird Feeder by Nature’s Hangout on Amazon. It has become our favorite for so many reasons. Filling the bird feeder with seeds is easy, and I don’t have to worry about breaking anything. It’s clear and doesn’t compete with other decor. Lastly, it can be positioned easily with suction cups on our patio door and my daughter can easily watch the birds from our living room when we don’t go out.
In fact, the process of filling the bird feeder with seeds has become a cherished pastime for us. Watching her tiny hands carefully pour the seeds into the feeders fills me with so much joy and pride. It’s a simple act, but it fosters a sense of responsibility and connection with the natural world.
“Birding for Babies”
To complement our outdoor adventures, we’ve been reading “Birding for Babies.” This paperback book introduces basic concepts of birdwatching in your backyard in a way that’s both engaging and accessible for young children.
Through colorful illustrations and simple explanations, my daughter is learning about different bird species, their behaviors, and the importance of caring for our feathered friends.
Final Thoughts
Through these experiences, my daughter is developing a deep appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. She’s learning valuable lessons about patience, empathy, and stewardship of the environment. And, as her mom, I couldn’t be prouder to witness her curiosity and wonder blossoming with each passing day.
In a fast-paced world dominated by screens and gadgets, there’s something truly special about immersing ourselves in the simplicity of nature. It’s a reminder to slow down, observe, and marvel at the world around us. And, as we continue on this journey together, I’m excited to see where it leads us next.
This post is in partnership with Amazon and contains affiliate links.
