Seed Sorting and Patterns

Pre-School:

Let little ones sort seeds by size or color, then ask them to make patterns: one big then one small, one black then two yellow, etc). This fun activity builds basic counting and sorting skills. The ability to both group and differentiate is among one of life’s most important skills. It is the foundation for all other learning.

Primary School & Middle School:

Older kiddos can design more complex patterns and designs. You might also allow them to use materials other than paper: dough, clay, cement 😬 ... of course a lot depends on your work area and how dirty it can get.

Art Imitates Nature

Pre-School:

Provide a variety of leaves, seeds, and petals for preschoolers to glue onto paper, creating a nature-inspired collage. Encourage children to explore the smell, feel, and so on of the elements. Manipulating the items helps kids in developing their fine motor skills.

Encourage the kids to paint using colors made from mashed berries or beetroot juice. In addition to paper, let kids paint on things that may or may not wash out: a cotton vs polyester t-shirt, a plate, a stone, etc. This introduces kids to natural dyes and traditional art practices while also stimulating curiosity and an opportunity to introduce the scientific method.

High School:

Let them figure out how to make and use plant-based dyes, and then how to make solids and patterns on different fabrics. This activity combines art with lessons in science and critical thinking.

Adjust according to age:

👉 A playful outdoor adventure where kids explore and find seeds around the garden, in the park, or on the way to to the local store is a joyful introduction to nature's variety any time of year. Seeds are not always where you expect to find them, after all!

👉 Encourage children to move freely within the available space (e.g., running in a large area, hopping in a smaller one), then ask them to strike a pose when you call out specific items. For the Family Advent Calendar 2025, consider using terms like: tree, flower, bee, seed, daisy, rose, lettuce, willow, and more, depending on the age and personal interests of the kids. This engaging introduction to theatre tableau techniques not only helps elevate their energy but also provides a way for them to release it. (SUPER TIP: Utilize your newly acquired tableau techniques to guide your children's behavior, especially in unfamiliar situations. They will value the clear directions and appreciate the support.)

👉  Set up a game where they carry seeds in small cups/their hands/big bowls/etc., from one spot to another, encouraging balance and coordination, not to mention a reinforcement of the sorting and classifying skills that are so important. Step up the skill level with a relay race where teams transport seeds using spoons, boosting their teamwork and motor skills.

Seed Sprouting Fun:

Let little ones plant seeds in clear cups and watch them sprout. This simple activity introduces them to the magic of growth.

Story Time Adventure:

Read out loud about seeds and plants -- fiction and non-fiction -- then let them draw (or act out) what stuck out most. Engaging with your kids about their thoughts and ideas leaves them feeling important.

Seed Germination Project:

Conduct easy experiments by planting seeds in cotton and observing their growth. This fosters curiosity and introduces the scientific method.

Creative Seed Tales:

Encourage kids to write, illustrate, and/or act out their own seed to tree stories, sparking creativity and enhancing their storytelling abilities.

Botany Lab Experiments:

Dive deeper with experiments on seed germination in various conditions. This develops critical thinking and scientific exploration.

Seed Journey Journals:

Have students create journals documenting a seed's life cycle, enhancing writing/illustrating skills and lessons in longer term outcomes.

Advanced Seed Research:

Conduct detailed experiments, like comparing seed growth in different soils, to hone analytical and research skills.

All the World's a Stage:

Encourage critical thinking and public speaking opportunities for your teens by putting them in charge of a debate or presentation aimed at informing the family of an on topic issue, curious fact, etc.