Best Kids Gardening Tools That Make Gardening Fun [Buying Guide]
Got kids? Do they want to grow their own veggies just like mom and dad? Here are the best kids gardening tools that will make gardening fun for them.
Kids like to copy what grown-ups do.
And they want to have what grown-ups have but sized for their smaller hands and fingers.
So when it comes to encouraging your kids to start growing their own food, getting them kids-sized garden tools will help.
There are lots of cute garden tool sets available that’ll be a hit with your kids!
Similar to the big kids (adult) list of tools, kids just need a basic tool set to do everything in the garden. As they get more involved and show a sustained interest, you can buy them more tools either to replace or supplement what they already have.
Then there are also watering cans and wheelbarrows to complete your kid’s tool collection.
Criteria For Kids Gardening Tools
Adult-sized gardening tools are not appropriate for most young kids.
They are too big, too heavy and in many cases not safe for kids to use.
Plus adult gardening tools are created for function, not to be cute or whimsical (there are exceptions of course!)
So you should look for the following features when shopping for gardening tools for children:
- shorter and smaller – kids are shorter than adults and their hands are smaller. Look for shorter tools that match their height and make sure handles are thin enough for their small hands to wrap around.
- lighter – just by being smaller, kids tools will be lighter but materials also come into play. Look for lighter materials such as reinforced plastics and aluminium instead of steel or hardwood handles.
- durable – kids are likely going to be rougher on their tools than you would with yours (although I’ve broken tool handles myself!), so even though you’re looking for light you also don’t want flimsy tools.
- safer – kids are not as careful as adults, so safety is of prime importance. Look for tools with blunt edges, no sharp tips and the proper size as mention in the first two points above.
- colourful – kids like colours and will have their favourites. Look for brightly coloured tools with graphics such as animals or faces. It also makes them less likely to be lost in the garden!
Best Kids Gardening Gloves
Note: Even though gloves might not be considered tools, when kids work with tools, it’s a good idea to have them protect their hands. That’s why I’ve included this section.
While most kids like exploring with their bare hands and getting them dirty, there are some kids that are more squeamish, just like adults. And there are some tasks that are safer if they protect their hands.
Problem is finding gloves that will fit their small hands. Luckily some manufacturers are making gloves for little hands.
If you are still having issues finding gardening gloves that fit, regular winter gloves can work too. Mittens not so much as they won’t allow your kids to grip things that well.
My recommendations from Amazon:
Melissa & Doug Dixie and Trixie Ladybug Good Gripping Gardening Gloves
These gloves are cute and have a coating to make gripping tools and other things easier. They are supposed to fit 3-6 year olds. According to the reviews they might be a bit big for 3 year olds, especially kids with smaller hands.
Vgo 2Pairs 3-4 Years Old Kids Gardening,Lawning,Working DIY Gloves
These gloves come in either blue or pink, depending on the colour your kid loves best. They come in a few different sizes instead of the ones above that have a broad range. The size ranges are: 3-4, 5-6 and 6-7 years old. It does mean you would need to buy the next size up as your child’s hands grow, but will likely fit better. They also are CA65 approved and comply with REACH regulations in the EU regarding use of chemicals.