The Benefits of Incorporating Herbs into Play Areas: How to Use Form and Function to Create a Safe and Stimulating Play Space

As parents and caregivers, we strive to create safe and engaging play areas for children. One way to achieve this is by incorporating herbs into the design.

Herbs not only add beauty to play areas, but also provide sensory stimulation and educational opportunities. They can be used to teach children about nature, health, and even cooking.

Form and Function

When designing a play area, it is important to consider both form and function. The space should be visually appealing and stimulating, while also providing a safe and comfortable environment for children to play.

Herbs can be used to achieve both form and function. They can be planted in a variety of shapes and patterns to create visually interesting designs. Additionally, certain herbs, such as lavender and chamomile, have calming properties that can help create a peaceful atmosphere.

Sensory Stimulation

Herbs provide a wide range of sensory experiences for children. The smell of herbs can be both soothing and stimulating. Children can touch and feel the leaves, which can be soft, fuzzy, or prickly. Some herbs, such as mint and lemon balm, have a taste that children may enjoy.

By incorporating herbs into play areas, children can learn about the different senses and how they work. They can also learn about the properties of different herbs and how they can be used in cooking and medicine.

Choosing Herbs for Play Areas

When choosing herbs for play areas, it is important to consider safety. Some herbs, such as poisonous plants, should be avoided. It is also important to choose herbs that are non-toxic and safe for children to touch and taste.

Some good options for play areas include lavender, chamomile, mint, lemon balm, and thyme. These herbs are safe and provide a variety of sensory experiences.

Creating a Herb Garden

One way to incorporate herbs into play areas is by creating a herb garden. Children can help plant and care for the herbs, which provides a fun and educational experience. The garden can also be used to teach children about sustainability and the importance of caring for the environment.

Additionally, a herb garden can provide a source of fresh herbs for cooking and making herbal remedies. Children can learn about the health benefits of different herbs and how to use them in recipes.

Conclusion

Incorporating herbs into play areas is a great way to create a safe and stimulating environment for children. Herbs provide sensory stimulation, educational opportunities, and can be used to teach children about nature, health, and sustainability. By using form and function, and choosing safe and non-toxic herbs, parents and caregivers can create a play area that is both beautiful and educational.