With all of the technology available nowadays, it’s harder than ever to keep kids focused. How will they ever be interested in farming if they don’t even go outside? The key is to get the kids involved early and often, so they will feel a sense of responsibility and pride in the work they do. Here are 3 things you can do to groom the next generation of farmers, so when they grow up, they’ll be excited to take over the family farm.
Give them something that’s their responsibility.
Even though it doesn’t seem like it, kids thrive when they have something they are responsible for. You can make it entirely age appropriate, and build on the skills as they grow up. For example, you can give a three-year-old a potted herb to nurture with a little instruction from you. Then, when the herb is big enough, show them how to use it on food. As they get older, they can be solely responsible for gathering eggs, feeding the horses, or checking on the strawberries. Kids like to feel that sense of accomplishment, and they will work hard to get it.
Let them try the more challenging tasks.
Children are always itching to get their hands on the next big thing, and they want to follow your lead. Under your careful supervision, or even with you, let the kids try something you think they aren’t quite ready to handle. It shows the kids you have confidence in them, which will boost their self-esteem, and they may end up surprising you by being capable. By fostering their independence and curiosity, you will groom them to happily take over one day.
Include them in decision-making.
If your intent is to leave the family farm to the next generation, they have to be involved in the process. This includes the buying, selling, and decisions which happen on a daily basis. Even if you don’t always use their suggestions, they’ll feel like a valuable member of the team by just being asked. As the kids get older, they can start to take over more and more of the decisions, until one day, the farm is theirs.
Doing these simple things will groom the next generation of farmers to take over and be excited to do so. For more information or other suggestions on getting the kids involved, be sure to contact us.
