Gardening and Digging
To develop upper body strength and tool use through gardening activities.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Physical Development
- Learning area: Physical Development
- Level: EYFS 3-4
Objectives
- Uses garden tools with developing control
- Shows upper body strength
- Follows planting instructions
- Sustains physical activity
Materials
- Child-sized spades and forks
- Watering cans
- Seeds and bulbs
- Plant pots
- Garden beds or raised planters
Instructions
TEACHING TOOL USE: Show how to dig safely: 'Push the spade in with your foot, lift the soil, turn it over.' Proper technique prevents strain.
PROVIDING PURPOSE: 'We're digging holes to plant these seeds!' 'Water the plants so they can drink!' Purposeful gardening is more engaging than aimless digging.
MANAGING THE PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Digging is hard work! Short sessions with rests. 'Let's dig for five minutes, then water the flowers.'
CONNECTING TO NATURE: 'Look — a worm! We found it by digging!' Gardening naturally integrates Understanding the World.