As we finish up our Explore the Rainforest theme with Experience Preschool, we created mini rainforest terrariums for the children to observe and care for.
Mini Rainforest Terrariums Supplies
- 4″ plastic pots (2)
- small plant – The 11 Best Plants to Grow in Your Terrarium
- potting soil
- moss
- rocks
- charcoal
- clear tape
- spray bottle with water
Make Your Mini Terrarium
This is a very simple terrarium for young children to make. My practicum student presented this as her activity for her class so it was very hands off for me personally. She did a great job working one on one with each child to make their project. It went quite fast and wasn’t as messy as you might expect!
We put a small amount of rocks in a cup for the child to transfer to the 4″ pot. Then they added moss and potting soil.
After adding a small plant, the child sprayed the plant with a little water to give it a small drink.
The youngest two (15 months & 21 months) were also able to participate and were thrilled to use the spray bottle.
They needed a little help but that’s okay!
Next we added a plastic pot on top to make a little terrarium.
The children helped tape the pot together or held the top so it could be taped.
They were so proud to take their mini rainforest terrariums to the the science shelf to sit in the light.
We could see moisture in the terrarium, creating a warm wet environment for the plant.
I wouldn’t have minded keeping them here for a few days but everyone was anxious to take them home.
Hopefully the parents will help keep the little plants alive with a little bit of water as needed.
Read this article about making terrariums with children on NASA Climate Kids.
I love teaching children about plants and gardening! The rainforest terrariums were a wonderful way to wrap up our Explore the Rainforest theme.
