Gardeners' World presenter Francis Tophill shares her secrets for keeping kids entertained in the garden
Keep the children busy this winter with these simple gardening activities for kids

Making sure the whole family enjoys some fresh air is a hard task in winter, made even harder by current circumstances. If you are looking for a little inspiration to get your children outside and entertained, Francis Tophill's gardening activities for kids will do the trick.
The Gardeners' World presenter has long been passionate about getting young people involved in gardening. She has campaigned for school gardening and worked on a number of community gardening projects.
Households across the country caught the gardening bug during lockdown. However, gardening isn't just for adults. There are plenty of garden ideas for kids to keep them entertained beyond simple mud kitchen ideas.
Frances has teamed up with Higgidy family kitchen to share her top tips for getting little ones involved in gardening.
Gardeners' World presenter Frances Tophill
1. Create an unusual veg patch
'Educate your little ones on the huge range of unusual veg that can be grown in your gardens,' says Frances.
'I recommend Lemongrass as it can be easily grown or bought from the supermarket. If you keep the bottom part and place it in water it grows some fantastic roots which will be magical for children to watch grow.'
2. Create a scarecrow
'Fantastic fun for the whole family, why not create your very own scarecrow for your back garden,' suggests Frances.
'Simply gather together twigs, sticks and old clothes to craft a scarecrow, a great project that the whole family can get involved with.'
3. Build a bug house
'Many children are fascinated by bugs and insects, so creating your very own bug house can be a great way for kids to learn about the many different species that are in the garden.'
'A quick and easy way to craft your own is to cut up some stems of bamboo and stick them in a bottle or box and wait for the magic to happen!'
Head over to our guide on how to make a bug hotel for more inspiration.
4. Grow some grass heads
'A classic crafting project, one I enjoyed myself growing up,' shares Frances. 'Simply cut holes in some old tights and sprinkle some grass seeds in the bottom and fill with potting mix.'
'Children will love watching these grow, as when the grass sprouts it'll look like hair. Kids can then decorate their grass head with anything they wish to create their very own garden friend.'
Join the gardening revival and get the whole family into the garden this year.
More ideas:
- Growing vegetables in pots: it's ideal for small spaces
- Best vegetables to grow in raised beds: take your pick from these tasty crops
- How to grow mint: this refreshing herb is one of the easiest to grow
-
-
Where to buy garden furniture in-stock now: spring 2021 edit
Furniture The top garden furniture in-stock for 2021 – where to buy sun loungers, rattan garden furniture, outdoor benches and hanging chairs this spring
By Amy Lockwood •
-
Spring garden ideas: 12 beautiful ways to welcome warmer weather to your plot
Ideas Our spring garden ideas are sure to bring a sense of cheer to your outdoor space – from pretty furniture, gorgeous planting, straightforward jobs and more
By Holly Crossley •
-
Budget garden ideas: 28 simple ways to update your outdoor space for less
Ideas Our budget garden ideas are perfect for giving your outdoor space a fresh new look without having to splash the cash
By Fiona Cumberpatch •
-
Here's why you need a rain garden this winter
Gardens Rain gardens look great and are exactly what you need this wet winter. Here's why...
By Anna Cottrell •
-
How to make a garden feel modern: 11 on-trend tips to refresh your plot's planting, layout and style
How To If you're wondering how to make a garden feel modern, we've got all the tips you need to know – from outdoor fireplaces and minimalistic features to creative canopies
By Holly Crossley •
-
These are the biggest pruning mistakes you're making, according to a gardening expert
How To Are you pruning your plants correctly? Improve your technique by avoiding these errors, says a gardening expert
By Anna Cottrell •
-
How much does decking cost? What to budget for when elevating your seating area
Landscaping How much does decking cost? If you're ready to take your garden up a notch, you'll definitely want to know. Read on to find out
By Holly Crossley •
-
The most poisonous plants for dogs: the flowers and shrubs to watch out for in your garden
Plants Are you wondering what the most poisonous plants for dogs are? We've got the info you need to help keep your four-legged friend safe
By Holly Crossley •
-
5 stunning plants for spring scent: add them to your planting list
Plants Treat your garden (and yourself) to some heavenly scented blooms this spring. Here are our top picks
By Sophie Warren-Smith •
-
5 easy jobs to do in your greenhouse this month
Garden Buildings Although this is a quieter time of year in the garden, there’s still some prep work that can be done to get you ready for spring
By Sophie Warren-Smith •