Terrariums: Perfect Projects for Kids

I nanny for a wonderful 10-year old boy, and it seems like every week we are planting something or making terrariums. This is a great way for kids to get creative and get in touch with nature. Plus, working with succulents are much easier than other plants because they only require watering once every 2-3 weeks (which is great for those moments of forgetfulness!) Glass globes/glasses start around $7 at various craft stores and plant nurseries, but you can also check out local thrift or community thrift stores in the city to find inexpensive glasses, jars, or containers. Another option is to trek to the beach and look for oddly-shaped pieces of driftwood. The options are endless!

Here are some general materials to consider:

• Glass globe, jar, or any type of container (You can even use old cups or jars)
• About 1/2-1 oz of aquarium charcoal (These are different from activated charcoal used in BBQs)
• 1lb of cactus soil (this is especially important because this soil allows water to drain quickly)
• An assortment of rocks, sands, or pebbles
• 2-3 small succulents (usually in 2 or 3-inch pots)
• Colored moss, lichen, or dried grasses

Here is an example of a succulent arrangement Isaac and I worked on. We found a piece of driftwood at the beach and created our own container by gluing river stones together:

 Isaac's Ying-Yang terrarium:

Isaac's first hanging globe! I'm so proud of him!

Enjoy and have fun!