A positive, healthy home environment is the very foundation for a happy family life but is especially important for the well-being of your children. The choices you make – from the furniture they relax on to the decor that surrounds them – can either support their development or, indeed, work against it.
But while it’s relatively easy to acquire quality furniture and put some thought into interior design, many parents overlook a simple but critical addition: plants.
We’re not exaggerating when we say that plants can influence everything from you and your child’s mood to energy levels all the way to concentration. Some can even promote recovery, believe it or not. And science backs this all up, just so everything’s clear.
Here’s how you can use different flowers and plants to create a truly pleasant, positive home environment for your little ones.
The Benefits of a Flower-Filled Home
You may already know plants are good for air quality, but they also offer so much more. Their vibrant colors and subtle (or sometimes bold) scents engage your child’s senses, creating an environment that’s both stimulating and calming, depending on the plant.
Here’s how flowers can specifically support your child’s well-being:
Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Studies show that for children (and teenagers) grappling with anxiety, plants can have a calming effect. For example, lavender, chamomile, and jasmine are well-known for their soothing properties. You can place a small bouquet of lavender in your child’s bedroom to help them wind down at night, or use chamomile in a shared family space to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Boosting Concentration and Focus
If homework time often turns into a battleground, you might want to add some greenery to the mix. Flowers like rosemary and eucalyptus are known to boost concentration and mental clarity and a small vase on their desk can help them stay on track. Plus, the act of caring for the flowers – even just changing the water – can give them a short, mindful break.
Improving Mood
Bright, cheerful flowers like sunflowers, daisies, and gerbera daisies naturally uplift a child’s spirits. Their vibrant colors stimulate positivity and energy, so consider placing them in commonly used spaces (like the living room or kitchen) to create a consistent mood boost for the whole family.
Enhancing Air Quality
While all plants contribute to purifying the air, certain flowers excel at this task. Peace lilies, chrysanthemums, and gerbera daisies help remove toxins like formaldehyde and benzene, making them ideal for commonly used rooms and bedrooms. Better air quality means fewer allergies, reduced respiratory issues, and better sleep for your child.
Creating a Plant-Friendly Space for Your Child
These were just some of the benefits that plants can bring about; but how do you incorporate them into your home effectively? Here are three simple ways:
Let Kids Choose Their Own Blooms
Children love autonomy so let them choose flowers for their own space if possible. This small act of choice helps them feel ownership over their surroundings and may even spark an interest in nature or gardening.
To keep things convenient, consider using a flower delivery or subscription service like BloomsyBox. This way, your child can explore different beautiful flowers regularly without the hassle of constant trips to the florist.
Use Flowers as Part of a Bedtime Routine
For children who struggle to wind down at night, flowers can be part of a relaxing ritual. A small vase of lavender or chamomile by the bed helps signal that it’s time to relax. You can even encourage your child to gently touch or smell the flowers while taking deep breaths – a mini mindfulness exercise that’s easy to maintain.
Create a “Focus Station” with Strategic Blooms
Set up a positive learning environment with flowers that aid focus. Eucalyptus or rosemary in a simple jar can do the trick. Keep it minimal – clutter defeats the purpose – and let the flowers be a subtle anchor for concentration.
Maintaining Your Plants
Keeping flowers and plants in good shape doesn’t have to be a full-time job. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy fresh blooms and thriving potted plants without constant upkeep.
Water Wisely
Most flowers and plants do well with consistent but moderate watering. For cut flowers, you’ll want to change the water every 2-3 days and trim the stems at a slight angle to help them absorb water more effectively. For potted plants, make sure the soil is slightly damp – not soaked – and check that the pot has good drainage.
Choose Low-Maintenance Varieties
If you’re worried about keeping plants alive, opt for low-maintenance varieties. Potted plants like succulents, snake plants, and pothos are resilient and require minimal care. For cut flowers, daisies, carnations, and alstroemeria last longer and can handle a bit of neglect.
Ensure Proper Light
Place your sun-loving flowers like sunflowers or gerbera daisies in bright, indirect light, but if you have potted plants like peace lilies or pothos, know that they’re more forgiving of lower light conditions. In any case, it’s best to observe your plants to see if they’re getting enough (or too much) light and adjust their position accordingly.
