Creating a secret garden for your child

Children love nothing more than something that is secret, hidden or private. Why not indulge that by helping them create their own secret garden?

First select an area of the yard or garden that is just for them. A five foot square area is enough space to begin their secret garden.

Next, ask where they want their entrance. They may take in numerous things into account, such as where a sibling's playhouse or fort is, or where the house is.

Next, place garden stakes on all sides, leaving the the entrance open. Then string some string between the garden stakes. Next, help your child plant growing vine plants from seats. You might want to use sweet peas for girls, or peas or beans for boys. And one side, you might try to grow sunflowers, too (but they won't provide as much "cover" for the secret garden.

You can also add containers of plants and flowers inside, if you aren't able to plant into the ground permanently.

Then you can help them plant any other flowers within the borders of their secret garden, or add a stepping stone or two inside the garden. You can also add a small child-sized chair so they can sit and enjoy their time in their secret garden.

As the time passes, the vines will begin to grow, leaving a thin "hedge" of sorts, perfect for the walls of their secret garden. And don't forget to remind them to water their plants as well.