If you want a fun project to do with your kids try planting herbs. Not only does a herb garden connect kids with nature it gives them an education in the culinary arts (if you explain what the various herbs are good for.)
Best of all, an herb garden requires little investment in time or money. You can grow herbs from seed with your kids, or purchase 'plugs' which are small bedding plants. The miracle of watching a seed turn into a plant is very exciting for kids.
Keeping the garden organic is ecologically good for kids as well. Don't use fertilizers, sprays or chemicals. Little ones can pick and much on herbs as they like.
A great kid-friendly herb is basil. Look for seeds that are guaranteed to be fusarium free. You can make pesto all summer out of the basil. All you have to do is mulch the herb into a paste in your food processor.
Chives are also a wonderful herb to plant. Plant them once and they will grow back year after year. Chives are great in tuna sandwiches and omelets.
Mint grows fast and like a weed. It is a great choice for a window box. You can make tea out of it. Keep in mind that once you start growing mint it is going to grow in your yard forever. The same goes for lemon balm.
Oregano is another invasive herb that is easy to grow. It is great in spaghetti and other sauces. It also has a lovely scent.
Thyme is also a great herb to grow because it is so decorative. It twines around rocks and arbors easily and can actually grow quite tall.
Other great herbs for growing in a garden with your kids are –
Dill – Great in everything including eggs, dips and salads
Tarragon – Tastes like licorice and great on fish
Sage – This is nice on a pasta with cream sauce
Parsley – They can nibble on it raw and it goes great with everything including salmon, salads and pasta
Chervil – This is a lovely delicate version of parsley with lovely little white flowers
Rosemary – This goes great with lamb or sprinkled on potatoes
Coriander – This is great in salads and also on steaks
Savory – This is an acquired taste but it does go great on meat.
Putting together a herb garden is a great project that the entire family can do together!