While gardening seems to be something that most people enjoy as they get older, there are some real benefits to having kids garden.

When young children are involved in gardening, it can promote major life skills. More than just a patch of dirt to play in, gardens are a great place to learn.

Read on for some reasons why gardening should be a part of young children's lives.

#1. They'll Want to Eat Healthier

The battle of getting kids to eat vegetables is not a new one. It has been an issue for parents for generations. But kids who grow their own food are more likely to try different foods.

They'll not only enjoy what they've grown, but be more open to other things. In fact, studies shown that kids who garden are less likely to be obese. They are more apt to choose fruits and vegetables for snacks the more time they spend in the garden.

#2. It's a Natural Stress Reliever

Kids these days have a lot of stress in their lives from a young age. Learning how to relax is a skill, but for kids who garden it is one that is learned naturally.

The fresh air and peace of being in a garden is calming. As they grow up, they continue to know how to calm themselves and will be less stressed.

#3. They'll have More Self-Confidence

Self-confidence is crucial for kids to grow and learn in a safe and healthy way. It can be hard for parents to promote self-confidence in their children without turning their child arrogant.

Luckily, gardening seems to be the answer. The simple act of growing flowers or vegetables from seed can make children feel like superheros. Add in the weeding and watering they do, and the nurturing that it takes to grow a plant will positively impact any child.

They will be working with adults, feeling competent and able, and those feelings will translate over to other areas of their lives.

#4. It's an Easy Way to Exercise

More children are becoming couch potatoes who would rather watch tv than ride a bike, but gardening is a great form of exercise.

As any adult knows, weeding and digging are hard work and will result in sore muscles. While this form of exercise isn't comparable to running or riding a bike, it's still a great way to move.

Children will learn that there are a lot of kinds of exercise they can enjoy.

#5. Gardening Promotes Analytical Thinking

Instead of just plunking plants or seeds into the ground, try planning a garden. Children will have to think about sunlight and space requirements of what they want to grow.

They'll work on science skills as they monitor plant growth. Studying the insects in the garden and how they affect the plants is a way to learn about nature.

Your child may develop a fascination with science after they've gardened for a while!

#6. Improve Fine Motor Development

Seeds can be really small and water has to be poured in the correct spot. Both of these tasks require good fine motor skills, and practicing them will develop small muscles in the hand.

These skills will translate to the classroom in cutting, writing, and typing. You will see an improvement in fine motor skills when you allow your child in the garden with you.

#7. Give a Sense of Responsibility

If plants don't have water they wont last. Children who have to take care of the plants everyday will feel responsible for their well-being. This is a great way to teach children about the importance of taking care of things.

Letting children garden is a great way to help them grow. They'll learn about healthy eating, taking care of things, and will also improve their fine motor skills.