From Seed to Bloom: Plant Life Cycle and Plant Sequencing Worksheets

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Inside: Wondering how to teach sequencing or a plant life’s cycle to your little learners? My engaging Plant Sequencing Worksheet Bundle is perfect for introducing sequencing and chronological thinking to kids. Look at what’s inside, download the freebie, and read the article until the end because it is packed with activities, recommended reads, and cool apps to dive deeper into nature’s cycles.

Isn’t it just awesome when you plant a tiny seed and then, boom, it turns into this big, beautiful plant? It’s like a bit of magic hidden in the dirt, and honestly, I think every kid should get the chance to see that magic unfold right in front of their eyes.

Getting our hands dirty and diving into the process of plant growth is an incredible start. Yet, reinforcing these hands-on experiences with specific names and intricate details can really anchor the learning for our kids. Sometimes, even we as parents might not remember all the proper terms or the exact sequence of growth stages. That’s where printables and educational resources shine! They serve as a perfect guide, allowing us to structure our activities in a way that enriches our kids’ understanding and ensures they grasp not just the magic but also the science behind it.

As parents and teachers we have the unique opportunity to guide our little explorers through this fascinating process, not just by telling them about it but by involving them in a hands-on, minds-on adventure. It’s about diving in hands-on and seeing their eyes light up with wonder. Whether it’s a sunflower shooting up tall or an apple tree popping its first blossoms, there’s something magical about the whole cycle of life and growth that captivates not just the kiddos (especially our eager-to-learn preschoolers to 2nd graders) but sometimes even us adults.

So, I’ve put together something special for you. It’s a bundle of really fun and engaging activities that revolve around plants, seeds, and developing an inquisitive mind. My Plant Sequence Worksheet and Plant Life Cycle Pack are designed to get those little hands moving, brains thinking, and hearts loving science.

In this little pack, we’re making the whole plant life cycle thing super tangible and interactive, turning those abstract concepts into something real that kids can touch, see, and get involved with. I’m here to help you spark that curiosity for scientific discovery, and observation, and even sneak in some life skills along the way with my educational resources on seeds and plants.

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The importance of teaching sequencing and life cycles

The process of a seed turning into a plant is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the concept of sequencing and chronological thinking. Why?

Observing a plant’s journey from seed to full bloom is not just a lesson in botany but a practical, visual way to understand that events happen in a correct order. This understanding is crucial, not just for young learners but as a skill that they will carry into elementary, middle school, and beyond.

And even more than that, sequencing isn’t only about learning the order of events. It’s a foundation for developing critical thinking and logical reasoning.

Sequencing helps children recognize patterns, see the cause and effect, and understand the complexity of life cycles. More than that, it’s a skill that crosses into all areas of learning, from understanding narratives in reading to solving problems in math.

Sure, in the world of plants, it helps kids grasp the concept of life cycles (seeing firsthand how each stage leads to the next). But this also lays the groundwork for logical thinking and pattern recognition which are crucial for life.

So I feel that teaching kids about plants (and life cycles) is a golden opportunity to introduce sequencing. It’s our moment to bridge their connection with the natural world, nurture a sense of responsibility and awe, and seamlessly integrate elements of science, literacy, and math.

Observing and understanding this sequence encourages patience, nurtures empathy for living things, and cultivates a sense of responsibility through caring for a plant.

In a nutshell, teaching kids about plants early on encourages:

• Sequencing skills: Learning the correct sequence of a plant’s life cycle enhances understanding of chronological order, which is vital for logical thought processes.
  
• Literacy and language development: Vocabulary related to plant growth introduces new words and concepts while discussing and writing about the processes helps improve language skills.
  
• Responsibility and empathy: Caring for a plant teaches children the importance of consistency and nurturing, fostering a sense of empathy for living things.
  
• Math concepts: Sequencing activities can involve counting seeds, measuring plant growth, and more, introducing basic math skills in a practical, hands-on way.

Seeing a seed sprout, grow leaves, and maybe even flower or fruit is a clear, beautiful example of “first this happens, then that happens”. It’s the kind of hands-on learning that sticks with kids, not just through the next grade but all the way up to middle school and beyond.

If you want to take this even further, you can continue sequencing into the realm of animals, with this butterfly life cycle printable or even go further with the water cycle – since they are all related.

​Hands-on learning with my plant sequencing worksheet bundle

After diving into the importance of understanding sequences and life cycles, it’s clear that having the right tools can make all the difference in bringing these concepts to life. That’s where my carefully crafted Plant Sequence Worksheet, Plant Life Cycle and Seeds Bundle comes into play. It’s a printable PDF file designed to not just teach but engage and inspire curiosity about the natural world around us.

Making concepts engaging and fun is at the heart of effective learning for young minds and I used Marc’s love for nature as he was growing up to inspire the creation of this bundle. You might find that some information is too much for your young learners, and it’s ok. I wanted to create this to cover a broad range of abilities (just in case you have a gifted learner or a curious “question-asker“).

🌱 What’s inside the Plant Sequence Worksheet, Plant Life Cycle and Seeds Bundle ?

First off, I’m kicking things off with a free preview focused on the life cycle of a plant (bean). It’s a peek into the world of bean growth from seed to sprout, complete with bonus worksheets and activities!

PSST! If you grab the freebie you also get a special limited-time offer discount on the full bundle.

What’s in the Free Preview?

Well, I’m glad you asked! The free preview isn’t just a teaser (’cause you know how I roll by now- I don’t waste your time with 1-page freebies). All this and more included:

Told you this preview was more than just a sneak peek! Grab it below:

And there’s more… 60+ pages more!

If the preview has you eager for more, the full bundle opens up an even wider world of discovery. With over 60 pages covering the life cycles of beans, maple trees, and sunflowers, detailed background information for any curious questions, and hands-on activities ranging from arts and crafts to writing prompts, it’s all about giving kids a comprehensive, engaging learning experience with these fun resources.

The full bundle then takes you deeper into the botanical journey. It’s a vibrant mix of storytelling and science, made accessible for kids from preschool to 2nd grade. Aside the preview above, this also includes:

• Seed worksheet: I’ve included a seed poster that breaks down the parts of a seed (seed coat, cotyledon, the parts of an embryo, and more!), accompanied by a hands-on labeling activity, and more seed background information (for the endless questions coming your way). I included this for different levels of difficulty and elementary kids can even use the included Seed Observation Sheet to dissect a seed.
  
• Literacy sections: I included three thought-provoking writing prompts (a narrative, journal entry, and nonfiction writing) and a sequence story booklet that kids can color and personalize with the plant they are currently observing. There’s also a Letter G page besides Letter P.
  
• Gardening : Aside the “plants you can grow” list, this section also has a visual checklist of gardening supplies, and a sorting worksheet around what plants need and parts of a plant.
  
• Crafts and More: There’s also a cute bean accordion sequence craft and seed mosaic activity (with templates), perfect for reinforcing learning through creative expression.

Here’s a quick video I posted of the booklet included in the bundle:

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A post shared by Laura 🍁 Homeschooling mom (@themonkeyandmom)

Psst, are you looking for even more hands on activities related to plants? I made a 3-project printable with easy print and cut activities for early learners, suitable for preK-grade 2:

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Implementing these activities into daily routines

Did you think I’d leave you at that? I want to help you find the right balance for you, so let’s explore how you can implement the activities I offered above (and more) into your daily routine.

Making plant life cycle and sequencing a part of your child’s learning doesn’t have to add to your busy schedule. Here are a few ideas to effortlessly incorporate these lessons:

1. Morning routine: Make it a habit to start your day with a quick check-in on your planted seeds. Observing and discussing any changes or growth over breakfast can be a delightful way to engage your child’s curiosity and observational skills right from the start of the day.
   
2. Incorporate storytime: Use the recommended picture books from the free printable bundle during your regular reading times. Books like “Rosie Plants a Radish” not only complement the learning theme but also add depth to the experience through storytelling.
   
3. Turn snack time into learning time: Discuss the origins of the fruits or vegetables you’re eating. If possible, show pictures of the plant it comes from, linking it back to the stages of growth. This helps children understand the relevance of what they’re learning to their everyday lives.
   
4. Nature walks: Take occasional walks in your neighborhood or local park with a focus on observing plants at different stages of growth. Encourage your child to point out what stage they think each plant is in, reinforcing their understanding of sequencing and the life cycle.
   
5. Evening reflection: End the day by updating the observation journal together. This not only reinforces the day’s learning but also creates a beautiful bonding activity. Over time, the journal will become a cherished record of growth—both of the plants and your child’s understanding.
   
6. Create a dedicated learning space: If you have room, dedicate a small corner of your house or garden for your plant-growing projects. Having a physical space devoted to their science explorations can make children feel like little experts and increase their engagement.

By weaving these activities into your daily life, you turn everyday moments into opportunities for discovery and learning. It shows children that science isn’t just a subject to be learned but a lens through which to view the world around them.

Go beyond – more ideas to dig deeper

Aaaand… if you have curious little learners that want more, especially if you are raising gifted children, I gathered some more ideas for you to go above and beyond life cycles.

Simple plant experiments at home

Encourage your child’s scientific curiosity with experiments that highlight the plant life cycle:

• Light vs. dark: Plant two seeds in identical pots but place one in a sunny spot and the other in a dark room. Use the printable worksheet to track their growth and discuss the importance of sunlight.
  
• Water types: Water plants with different liquids (tap water, rainwater, and diluted coffee) to observe the effects on growth. It’s a hands-on way to explore plant needs.
  
• Changing colors: Use white carnations or celery stalks and place them in water dyed with food coloring. Over time, the plants will absorb the colored water, changing the color of their petals or stalks. This visual experiment demonstrates how plants absorb water through their vascular system.

Seasonal planting activities

Keep the exploration going all year with seasonal planting:

• Indoor herb garden: Start an herb garden in your kitchen during the winter. Herbs like basil and cilantro sprout quickly, providing a fast sequence for kids to observe. It’s a really fun way to observe plants while also having fresh herbs for cooking.
  
• Pumpkin planting: In spring, plant pumpkin seeds in your garden. By fall, you’ll have pumpkins ready for Halloween, showcasing a full plant life cycle. And if you want to dive deeper into Pumpkins get our Pumpkin Unit Study.

More ideas to blend art with plant science

Combine creativity with learning by incorporating art projects like making paper plate flowers with your preschoolers or even get inspired by some of these ideas:

• Leaf pressing and identification book:
  • Collect leaves from various plants during a nature walk.
  • Press and dry the leaves between pages of heavy books.
  • Once dry, glue the leaves onto the pages of a homemade book and label them with their names and interesting facts. This project encourages research skills as children learn about each plant.
    
• Garden stone mosaic:
  • Make a mosaic using stones, shells, and other natural materials to represent different types of plants (trees, flowers) or plant parts (stem, root etc).
  • This can be a permanent installation in your garden, serving as a beautiful reminder of the diversity in plant life.
    
• Botanical sun catchers:
  • Place flowers and leaves between two sheets of contact paper, cutting them into shapes like circles or stars.
  • Hang them on windows to catch the light. It’s a beautiful way to explore the structure and beauty of plant parts.
    
• Vegetable stamp art:
  • Cut vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and okra into different shapes.
  • Dip them in paint and stamp onto paper to create artwork.
  • Discuss the parts of the plants being used and their roles in plant growth and reproduction.
    
• Plant growth time-lapse journal:
  • Have your child document the growth of a plant from seed to full growth through drawings or photographs.
  • Create a journal that includes observations and artwork related to each stage of the plant’s development.
    
• Eco-friendly planters:
  • Decorate used cans or plastic containers with eco-friendly materials to create unique planters.
  • This craft can lead into discussions about recycling, plant care, and the importance of green spaces.
    

10 picture books around plants and seeds

Here’s a list of 10 delightful picture books about seeds, plants, and the magic of growing things, perfect for young readers (these links are affiliate).

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1. The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle – Follow the journey of a tiny seed as it travels across the world, facing challenges and growing into a beautiful flower.
   
2. From Seed to Plant by Gail Gibbons – This picture book offers a clear and engaging explanation of how seeds are formed, grow, and produce new seeds, complete with Gibbons’ signature illustrations.
   
3. A Seed Is Sleepy by Dianna Aston, illustrated by Sylvia Long – An informative and beautifully illustrated book that introduces children to the wonders and diversity of seeds.
   
4. Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert – A colorful exploration of flower gardening, showing the process of planting seeds, bulbs, and seedlings, and then watching them grow.
   
5. The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss, illustrated by Crockett Johnson – A classic tale of a little boy who plants a carrot seed and waits patiently for it to grow, despite everyone telling him it won’t sprout.

1. Miss Maple’s Seeds by Eliza Wheeler – Miss Maple gathers lost seeds, nurtures them through the winter, and sends them off to sprout in the spring, celebrating the potential within every seed.
   
2. Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt by Kate Messner, illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal – This book explores the hidden world beneath the garden soil, where seeds sprout and creatures live in harmony with plants.
   
3. Seeds Move! by Robin Page – A fascinating look at the various ways seeds travel to find the perfect place to grow, featuring engaging facts and illustrations.
   
4. Oh Say Can You Seed?: All About Flowering Plants by Bonnie Worth, illustrated by Aristides Ruiz – Part of the Cat in the Hat’s Learning Library, this book introduces young readers to the basics of flowering plant life cycles in a fun and accessible way.
   
5. The Dandelion Seed by Joseph Anthony, illustrated by Cris Arbo – A story about a dandelion seed’s journey to grow into a dandelion flower, emphasizing themes of change, survival, and the beauty of life.

These books combine charming narratives with educational content, making them perfect for reading aloud and sparking a love of nature and curiosity about the world of plants and seeds.

Use technology for interactive learning – 8 apps for learning about plants

If you want to incorporate some tech in your plant-learning adventure, here are some apps you can try:

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1. Barefoot World Atlas:
   • This interactive globe app includes information about the world’s flora and fauna, making it a fantastic resource for kids to learn about plants from different regions. The app combines geography and botany in an accessible format for young learners. We love this app and have been using it for years (see my 4th grade geography curriculum choices for a peek)
     
2. Britannica Kids: Rainforests:
   • This app offers a wealth of information about rainforest ecosystems, including the plants that thrive there. Through games, videos, and learning activities, children can explore the layers of the rainforest and the importance of plant life in these environments.
     
3. Peekaboo Barn Farm Day:
   • Ideal for younger learners, this app introduces kids to farm life, including growing fruits and vegetables. It’s a playful way to begin conversations about where food comes from and the role of plants in our diets.
4. Plants!
   • TinyBop creates the BEST educational apps out there. They aren’t only educational but also very creative and beautiful to play with.
     

1. PlantSnap:
   • While primarily for identifying plants, its simple interface can be a fun tool for kids to learn about different plants in real-time. Parents can help take photos of plants, and the app provides instant information, making for an interactive outdoor learning experience.
     
2. Toca Nature:
   • This app allows kids to create and explore their own virtual nature worlds. They can plant trees, build mountains, and watch forests come to life. It’s a great way for children to learn about the natural ecosystem and the importance of plants in it.
     
3. Nature Cat’s Great Outdoors:
   • Inspired by the PBS KIDS show, this app encourages outdoor exploration. It offers daily adventures that can prompt children to explore nature and learn about plants in their local environment.
     
4. Gro Garden:
   • Focused on sustainable farming and gardening, Gro Garden teaches children about composting, planting seeds, and growing food. It’s a hands-on way for kids to understand the cycle of plant life and the importance of taking care of the environment.
     

Each of these apps offers a unique way to explore plant science, from interactive gardening to virtual explorations of global ecosystems. They’re not just educational but also loads of fun, providing a great foundation for a lifelong interest in the natural world.

Growing together

Exploring the world of plants with our kids is a hands-on way to illuminate the beauty and complexity of nature right in our backyards but also an amazing opportuinty to introduce important skills like sequencing and chronology.

By engaging in the activities I curated for you, you’re not only teaching your child about the fascinating world of plants but also spending quality time together, nurturing a lifelong love for learning and nature. Each experiment, craft, and outdoor adventure is an opportunity to observe, question, and marvel at the life cycles all around us.

My Plant Sequence Worksheet, Plant Life Cycle, and Seeds Bundle isn’t just a collection of activities but a bridge to connect your child with the natural world. With interactive worksheets, creative crafts, and real-world experiments, this bundle has it all to help you get started.

Remember, the goal is to make learning fun and memorable. As we encourage our little explorers to observe, question, and connect with nature, we lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning and discovery.

So, how will you incorporate the magic of plant growth and the practical lessons of my Plant Sequencing Worksheet Bundle into your teaching or daily routine? Will you start with a story, dive into an app, or get your hands dirty with a fun project?

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