Seed Planting & Discovery Garden

Seed Planting & Discovery Garden is a free, NQF-aligned Free & Outdoor / Nature Play activity for ages 4 to 10. It includes a learning intention, a materials list, step-by-step instructions and framework links.

Learning intention

This experience supports children to care for living things and to observe change over time.

You'll need

• A coco peat pellet
• A saucer
• Water (35ml)
• Seeds or seed paper
• A small pot

How to do it

1. Children place a coco pellet on a saucer and pour over warm water to expand it.
2. Break up the soil and part-fill a pot.
3. Add the seed paper, then cover with the remaining soil and press gently.
4. Place in a sunny spot and care for it over the coming weeks.

Adapting for under-5s (EYLF v2.0)

A foundational early-years experience supporting respect for the environment and observing the natural world over time.

Curriculum links

MTOP

• 2.4 Children and young people become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
• 4.2 Children and young people develop a range of learning and thinking skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating

EYLF

• 2.4 Children become socially responsible and show respect for the environment
  Adapting for younger children: A foundational early-years experience supporting respect for the environment and observing the natural world over time.
• 4.2 Children develop a range of learning and thinking skills and processes such as problem solving, inquiry, experimentation, hypothesising, researching and investigating
  Adapting for younger children: A foundational early-years experience supporting respect for the environment and observing the natural world over time.

NQS

• 3.2.3 Environmentally responsible - The service cares for the environment and supports children to become environmentally responsible.

Frequently asked questions

What NQF outcomes does Seed Planting & Discovery Garden support?

Seed Planting & Discovery Garden is mapped to MTOP 2.4, MTOP 4.2, EYLF 2.4, EYLF 4.2, NQS 3.2.3. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.

What age group is Seed Planting & Discovery Garden for?

This activity suits ages 4–10.

What do I need for Seed Planting & Discovery Garden?

You will need A coco peat pellet, A saucer, Water (35ml), Seeds or seed paper and A small pot.

How long does Seed Planting & Discovery Garden take?

Allow about 30 min.