To the Garden: A Summer Invitation to Slow Down

There's something about gardens that calls us to pause. Maybe it's the beautiful colors or the chirps of birds, but one thing is certain: a simple trip to the garden has the power to reset the entire rhythm of the day. This week's Summer Bucket List theme, To the Garden, invites us to lean into slower moments -- and let your little one lead the way.

Whether it's your backyard garden, a greenhouse across town, or a shaded path of wildflowers behind the school, this isn't about the act of gardening. It's about what happens in the garden: the stories, the snacks, the slowness.

I have a vivid memory from a few years ago. My nephew Lou, when he was little, used to wander through a local greenhouse with his Lion, Pudgey, tucked under his arm. One day, he found a fountain. He started slapping the water, covering the hole at the top, and watched how the flow changed. A tiny science lesson designed as joy. Moments like that stay with you.

There's no pressure here. Just pick a place with blooms and let the day unfold:

• Spread a blanket and read aloud under a tree.
• Share a snack in the shade with no rush to clean up.
• Bring along our bug book or bug journal to spot what's buzzing nearby.
• Watch your littles pick petals, find rocks, or turn leaves into fairy wings.

Here's a fun and easy idea, no prep required! Try a color scavenger hunt:

"Bring me something red!"

"Let's find something blue!"

You stay seated and let your little one explore and bring you back their found treasures.

Our Forage & Fill activity pairs perfectly with a garden visit, too. Just grab one of our templates or make your own at home (cardboard + markers is all you need), then fill it with flowers. Let the garden become their art supplies.

At its heart, this week is about letting go of the schedule and finding magic in the meander. A garden doesn't demand much from us. It just asks that we notice.

Items From Our Shop That Pair Well With This Week's Adventure:

• Little Wonders: Bugs Interactive Board Book
• Bug Passport Journal
• Mini Coloring Book: Birds, Bugs & Botany
• Sun Print Kit
• Quitch Bug Repellent Patches

✅ Don't Forget To Check It Off Your Summer Bucket List:

• Visit a Greenhouse
• Plant Seeds
• Have a Picnic
• Play Outside
• Read a Book
• Paint Rocks

Ready to wander?

Print your free Summer Bucket List and start with one simple garden stop. Let the day unfold from there.