I wouldn’t call myself a gardener, more like gardener-adjacent, and either in because or in spite of this, I experience what most would call disproportionate excitement whenever 1) something grows and 2) I can use it. Grape tomatoes, jalapenos, zucchini, basil–all of it tastes better when I grew it, and I’m not ashamed to say so.
I use garden flowers in the classroom all summer, but this year we planted bulbs for the first time in a long time. Truly, the joy I felt combining this daffodil with the rest of the bouquet from Trader Joe’s stuck with me all day.
Here’s the epiphany: If I as a grown woman am so thoroughly delighted by this kind of achievement, how must a child feel after a real contribution to the community?
Just as I am not winning any awards for my roses, your child’s sock matching or dish towers may not turn out exactly as yours might. But, beyond just the learning, imagine: the confidence, the excitement, the pride, the inspiration to try again. Your child may not be able to articulate it, but believe that it all adds up.