Try something a little different and a little science-y for St. Patrick's Day this year by making your own Chia pets! (Ch-ch-ch-chia!) It's SO easy to do and it's something the kids will love. 

Shamrock Sprouts:

• A household sponge (preferably green for the holiday but whatever you like!)
• Seed packet (such as lettuce, spinach, and broccoli seeds)
• A water mister
• Shallow plate

1. Trace a shamrock shape onto the dry sponge with a sharpie. Cutting the sponge may be a bit more difficult for the kids, but with perseverance they'll manage!  Also note, the sponges will be easier to cut when wet.  (Kids may need to use adult scissors because kid scissors may not be sharp enough - obviously, if this is the case, observation & guidance will be needed for safety!)



2. Soak the sponge once again, you want the sponge to be damp, but not dripping.  Scatter the seeds across the top of the sponge, gently poking the seeds into the holes. Place in a sunny window. 



3. Keep the sponge moist by misting with water, don’t let the seeds dry out.  It's helpful to turn a clear plastic container over the plate at night to keep the moisture in. Mist often with a water sprayer.

4. Soon you should have your very own sprout garden! Kids will find it intriguing that seeds can grown without soil, so it's a good learning experience, whilst being fun. 



*original article found on Housing a Forest*