Dadzoo and I have been contemplating ways to teach our children hard work and responsibility. We decided to give each child (or let them choose) one thing that they were primarily responsible for, we would provide guidance, with the understanding as the years go on they would be able to take over their area. We are also encouraging them to find ways to earn money within their particular area, fostering a entrepreneurial spirit.
A week ago we started our tomatoes seeds, I am really excited this year because for Christmas Dadzoo got me grow lights and a warming pad, so I am really going to be able to get these little guys started, instead of limping along like I usually do.
Lou is my tomato grower, she is in charge of the care and feeding of our tomato patch. She filled the trays with soil and planted every tiny little seed. When they are big enough she will plant them outside, keep them wed, help harvest and bottle the tomatoes. It will give her a sense of pride, of contribution, of esteem every time we slice a fresh tomato, or open a jar or sauce. Children don’t need empty words to foster a sense of self worth, they need to accomplish something worth while, that is true self esteem.
After just a couple days we could see those little seeds, that Lou planted, begin to sprout. Lou has been very careful to keep the soil moist, she checks them several times a day, and gives me updates.
We planted 10 different varieties of heirloom tomatoes and plan on saving the seeds from the plants we like the best for next year.
Seed saving is something new for us, I like the idea of being independent and self sustaining with our garden.