Growing safely
Curiosity, with a grown-up.
Small beginnings work best when adults help choose safe places, materials, plants and ways to participate.
Before you begin
- Ask permission for the place you use. Adults check the soil, water, plants, site history, tools and rules. Never change shared spaces without permission.
- Keep paths, reach and play space in the plan. Adults check utilities and handle construction, heavy pots and tools.
- Use plants and seeds selected with a trusted adult and local advice. Follow planting instructions. Keep small seeds away from mouths.
While you explore
- Do not taste unknown plants, seeds, mix or seedlings. Adults identify any food and check allergies and preparation rules.
- Observe insects from a safe distance. Do not touch, catch, chase or feed them. Avoid nests, roads and sprayed areas.
- Do not handle, sniff or taste moldy compost. Use pictures for sorting. Adults manage compost; no raw manure or pet waste in these activities.
- No child pesticide mixing or application. An unknown insect is not automatically a problem to kill.
- Cover cuts, avoid breathing dusty materials and wash hands after gardening. Adults supervise water; avoid standing water.
- Stop and ask a grown-up if something seems unsafe. A paper-only activity is a complete way to join in.
Food needs its own care
Adult-approved tasting is optional. Wash safe produce under clean running water; do not use soap. Washing cannot make unsafe produce safe. Adults handle knives, food preparation, allergies and school food-service rules. The missions do not include eating raw sprouts.