



Who This Guide Is For
This guide was created for home childcare providers, preschool teachers, early years educators, homeschooling families, parents, grandparents, and nature-based programs seeking a slower, more intentional approach to gardening and outdoor learning with young children.
Whether you are working in a home childcare program, classroom, backyard, small urban space, patio, porch, or community setting, this guide will help you confidently garden alongside children through hands-on exploration, seasonal rhythms, and meaningful nature-based learning experiences.
No large garden or perfect outdoor space is required. A few containers, a small garden bed, a porch, a windowsill, or a patch of soil is enough to begin.
The goal is not to create a perfect garden, but to nurture curiosity, wonder, observation, responsibility, and a deeper connection to the natural world.
What You'll Find Inside
- How to start a garden with children ages 0–5
- Easy vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruits to grow together
- Pollinator gardens and beneficial insects
- Gardening in containers, small spaces, and backyard gardens
- Seasonal gardening experiences throughout the year
- Science, math, language, art, and sensory learning opportunities
- Loose parts and nature-based invitations using garden materials
- Real-life gardening stories and examples from Lil Bebe Academy
- Illinois Early Learning Standards connections
- Practical tips to help children develop responsibility, observation skills, curiosity, and a deeper connection with nature
Plus over 145 pages of photographs, inspiration, ideas, and encouragement to help you begin exactly where you are.
For the cost of 1 lunch, you’re stepping into a richer outdoor learning experience, a clearer path, and an environment where curiosity, wonder, and childhood can flourish once again.
Small Steps — Beautiful Transformation
You deserve this transformation. I will see you inside the guide.