Growing Carrot Tops

by Jo-anne
(Sydney, Australia)

This is the easiest way to show your toddler how things grow - and simple enough that there is almost no mess and can be used to reinforce an ongoing 'garden/growing' theme. Your toddler will be able to do this (almost) completely on their own which gives them a great sense of immediate achievement and ongoing wonder at what happens over the next few days.

Supplies:
A shallow plastic tray
Cotton wool
Carrot tops

Instructions:
Line the tray with cotton wool.
Place carrot tops on top.
Pore on slightly more water than the cotton wool can absorb.
Place the tray in a sunny place (window sill is ideal).

Water the carrots each day (just enough to keep the cotton wool soaked but not flooded), talking about the need for plants to have sun and water, then sit back and watch them grow!

Note: They will eventually turn black which is a great time to exchange them for fresh cut carrot tops to keep the little garden growing.