Create Lasting Memories: Crafting Your Own Concrete Planter with Kids!
Hey there, green-thumbed parents! ? Are you looking for an exciting DIY project to enjoy with your little ones? Look no further! Making a concrete planter can be a rewarding and educational experience for the whole family. It’s not just about creating a home for your plants; it’s about bonding with your children and enjoying the satisfaction of building something with your own hands.
Before we roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty, let’s talk safety first. Working with concrete can be messy and requires some precautions, so make sure everyone’s wearing old clothes, gloves, and safety goggles. Now that we’re all geared up, let’s walk through the process of making your very own concrete planter!
Materials You Will Need:
- Concrete mix
- Water
- Two containers of different sizes (for mold shaping)
- Non-stick cooking spray or vegetable oil
- Sandpaper (optional)
- Paints and brushes (if you want to decorate your planter)
- Mixing tools (a stick or an old spoon)
- A protective tarp or plastic sheet
- Protective gloves
- Safety goggles
Choosing the Right Concrete Mix
One of the first steps in creating your planter is selecting the right concrete mix. For our purposes, a ready-to-use concrete mix is perfect — it’s easy to find at your local hardware store. If you want to make it a learning moment, you can discuss the properties of concrete with the kiddos. How does it start as a powder and transform into such a strong material? Science is cool!
Preparing Your Mold
The mold is what gives your planter its shape. You can use almost any two containers you have around the house, as long as the smaller one can fit inside the larger one with a gap around it — this determines the thickness of your planter’s walls. A great tip is to use non-stick cooking spray or a dab of vegetable oil on the inside of the larger container and the outside of the smaller one. This makes it much easier to remove the concrete once it’s set.
Mixing Your Concrete
It’s mixing time! Have the kids put on their safety goggles and gloves because safety is our top priority. In a wheelbarrow or a large bucket, mix the concrete following the instructions on the bag. The consistency should resemble a thick milkshake. Not only will kids love the comparison, but they’ll also know what texture to look for. Stirring the mix can be quite the workout, so make sure to take turns!
Laying down a protective tarp or plastic sheet is key to keeping the mess at a minimum. It’s also a lot more fun when you don’t have to worry about spills. Culminating the process of preparing the materials together with your little helpers not only teaches responsibility but also the importance of preparation in any project.
To ensure longevity in your planter, it’s important to cure the concrete correctly. This affects durability and is a great science lesson in itself! Explain to the kiddos that concrete needs moisture to strengthen over time — a little lesson in chemistry you can apply on a sunny afternoon.
Now, look at that! You’re almost ready to begin the actual creation of your concrete planter. In the next section, we will pour our mix, carefully place the inner mold, and learn the secrets of curing our planters for the best results. So, stick around to transform your mix into a stylish, sturdy home for your cherished plants, and continue the adventure of DIY with your family!
We’re about to pour our hearts, soul and, well, concrete into making something beautiful that will spruce up any space – be it indoors or out. Your kids will beam with pride knowing they helped build it from scratch. So, let’s keep the motivation blooming and dive right into the fun and crafty world of concrete planters!
With these initial steps under your belt, you’re well on your way to creating not just a concrete planter, but also memorable moments with your children. Stay tuned for the next phase of this hands-on journey!
5 Things Parents Should Know Before Crafting a Concrete Planter with Kids
1. The Importance of Supervision and Safety
When engaging in a project that involves materials like concrete, it’s crucial to supervise your children at all times. Ensure they understand the importance of wearing gloves and safety goggles to protect their hands and eyes from the rough and potentially irritating concrete mixture. Emphasize that while this is a fun activity, caution is necessary throughout the process.
2. Prepping the Workspace
Before you begin, choose an appropriate workspace, preferably outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. A solid, flat surface is ideal for working with concrete. Laying down a protective tarp or plastic sheet will not only make cleanup easier but also protect the underlying surface from spills or stains.
3. Understanding Concrete Mixtures
Knowing the right consistency for your concrete mixture is key to a successful planter. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but not too stiff to work with. Also, be aware that while mixing concrete, adding too much water can weaken the final structure. Balancing the water-to-concrete ratio is a part of the learning curve.
4. Crafting Is a Teachable Moment
Use this opportunity to teach your children about the science behind concrete—how it cures, what chemical reactions take place, and why patience is crucial during the curing process. Discuss the properties of concrete and how its strength and durability come from proper mixing and curing times.
5. Customization and Creativity
Remember, the project doesn’t end once the concrete sets. Decorating the planter can be just as enjoyable and creative. Encourage your children to think about how they’d like to paint or personalize their planters — perhaps with handprints or mosaic tiles. Let their imagination guide this process and have an array of decorative options available. It’s a fantastic way to develop their artistic skills and to make each planter truly unique.
Let’s Pour Some Fun into Our Planter!
Now that we’re informed and prepared, it’s time to get concrete! Start by pouring the mixed concrete into your larger container, filling it to just under the desired height of your planter. Then, press the smaller container into the center to create the cavity where your plant will eventually go. It’s vital to weigh down the smaller container; otherwise, it may float up. You can fill it with stones or any heavy objects.
After you’ve set your mold, tap the sides gently to release air bubbles. This will ensure a smoother, more professional finish on your planters. Now the hardest part: the wait. Concrete takes time to cure properly, and this could be a day or two depending on the size and thickness of your planter. This is a great time to discuss the virtue of patience and the excitement of anticipation.
Once the concrete has fully cured, carefully remove the planter from the mold. If it doesn’t pop out easily, try gently patting the outside of the container or twisting it if the material allows. Then, remove the inner container. You might need to tap it or even cut the container away if necessary—adults only, please! If there are any rough spots or edges, sand them down for a smooth finish.
And finally, the moment you’ve all been waiting for — it’s time to unleash your creativity! Paint your planter, add some patterns, doodle some names. Seal your artwork with a clear outdoor varnish if you plan to keep the planter outside. Let the creativity flow and, most importantly, have loads of fun while doing it.
Your concrete planter is now ready to house a plant of your choice. It symbolizes not only your craftsmanship but also the quality time spent with your family. Fill it with soil and your favorite flowers, herbs, or even a tiny tree, and watch as your little seedlings of effort grow into something beautiful.
Parents, remember, these moments are as permanent as the planter itself — cherished memories encased in the joy and laughter of making something from scratch. As your plants grow, so will your memories of this special project.
Now, your concrete planter is more than just a vessel for greenery; it’s a snapshot of time spent with loved ones, learning and growing together. What will you plant in your DIY concrete planter? Let the gardening adventure begin!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in New Zealand here. For more information see here
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