When you’re deciding on gardening tools for children, you definitely want to buy products that are durable, age-appropriate, and functional. We carefully considered any age recommendations, design, material, and value when reviewing products. Here are the best kids’ gardening tools so children can safely help plant and dig. We named the Storybook Kids Explorer Club Kids Gardening Tools our top pick because this set includes everything needed for beginner gardeners. Kids will love all of the exciting pieces in this gardening tool kit while parents will appreciate the tote bag for easy and neat storage. The bundle features gloves, a watering can, three gardening tools, and the book “How to Grow a Garden” by Brett Oliver Parson. The gardening set helps promote STEM development, healthy food habits, and pretend play. Children can learn how to grow their own food and are even given four different labels for homegrown foods, like corn and peppers. Price at time of publication: $33 The shovel, hoe, leaf rake, and soil rake are all crafted to adjust from 33 inches to 39.5 inches long. With a child-sized, yet rugged, wheelbarrow, your kid will be ready to dig in and get gardening. Price at time of publication: $99 Parent reviewers are impressed with how well-made the tools are. Little gardeners will love how their tools look just like big ones and will be proud to start gardening too. Price at time of publication: $9 A durable tote fits a toddler-sized shovel, rake, and spray bottle. The tools are plastic. They are lightweight, which is necessary for little ones, but may not hold up to heavy use or deep digging in the dirt. Price at time of publication: $19 The included hand rake and trowel have special slots, so they are easy to store. This does require some assembly, but all it takes is a hammer and a few minutes, and you’ll be ready to go. Names can be engraved on the wooden handle, so there’s no second guessing on which rake belongs to whom. Each tool is about 21 centimeters long, making them perfect for children ages 3 and up. Once they’re finished painting, they can plant four different types of flowers: marigolds, balsams, zinnias, and cosmos. There’s also four butterfly sticks for decoration in the plant and a water bottle for when their flowers need a drink. Price at time of publication: $24 There are also three pockets on the belt to hold their two shovels and rake. The belt is adjustable, so it can grow with your child. The hat can be worn two different ways while the apron has an adjustable neck and waist strap to ensure your child is comfortable while gardening. All of the items come inside of a carrying bag for easy storage, too. Price at time of publication: $35 Some tools are made with a wooden handle and metal end, which are great for gardening because they’re durable materials. If your child is under the age of three, you may want to opt for tools that are plastic before graduating to more adult-like materials. However, just keep in mind that plastic tools may break more easily.
Age-Appropriateness
One of the most important factors you should consider when buying kids’ gardening tools is the age-appropriateness of the tools. Age recommendations are guidelines parents and caregivers should follow because they help keep kids safe. Many gardening tools are typically safe for children 3 years old and up, but there are some products aimed at younger children, like the Step2 Springtime Wheelbarrow (view at kohls.com), which is safe for children ages 2 and up. Wooden and metal materials are usually safer for children above the age of 3, while plastic tools will work best for toddlers. Either way, you’ll want to double check what the manufacturer recommends when it comes to age guidelines.
Functionality
Some kids’ gardening tools resemble the tools you use yourself while gardening. They usually have a metal end with a wooden handle and can be tall or short, depending on your comfort level. Kids can use these tools very much like you would use an adult tool. Plastic tools are great for young children, but they’re not as functional for true gardening. If your child will be using plastic tools, you may need to loosen dirt for them before they dig.
Why Trust Verywell Family
Maya Polton is a former marketing manager and current freelance writer who covers food, home, and parenting. She’s also the mom of a 10-year-old son, 6-year-old son, and 2-year old daughter. Her family uses a wide variety of appropriate and non-appropriate tools to plant tons of bulbs in the fall and each spring she’s always so glad she forced them all to help when they enjoy seeing the flowers grow together.
