Sow your own -
![Keeping children busy in the garden how to allotment garden with kids](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1mzBbenHImNTPTlZkz2z86tXcNraFXQTtQc_SuKc6eZO8Vi3OLw9t5Ek0qMMuQVnLVge-WY792C6EmgAhpNFn3N3-uvLJf6nKoeGXhSb-dUS3kIgxGsLUFHcdPftIj-0UG0VjjluY7pQ/s400/IMG_20140611_134311.jpg)
Don't take on too much -
At first we were disappointed to have been only allocated a half plot. But two weeks on we're greatful we aren't clearing double. Set small goals everytime you head up to your plot, remember it takes years to make a plot look like those swish examples some of your neighbours will have.Plan your crops wisely -
![foraging for food with kids hidden treasure at the allotment](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_qB6TzJSQXVvOAlSA6l8mAAO3UzqHy1mOKVOMjwI_5_GIynVFpYy2By1c16F6-DR2O3O_AHjoaym1HJwEQS2IfGCoTt0GyOnozkVvgECWVN574yoAHT7SYqTS4AsowrJMq-30dBLDs20/s400/IMG_20140602_191014.jpg)
Waste not, want not
You may be suprised what you inherit. We were welcomed by asparagus. raspberry canes, rhubarb and a gooseberry bush. Worth 4 years allotment rent. They were well buried under weeds. So take your time clearing to appreciate what might be already growing.Clear it one bed at a time
![how to start an allotment starting at your own allotmen](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVDlm_NXRGr2i7-BzMnEE-sKIu5NjlNRQy72k5YrHEHy5kg3ohwi4cjDAbQapaf8CjJkiQn6-iDnRn3FsQ987Zfq8mqnJioGF26WahzrsadFtWNK_AVAPVi55i1CSAMY4VM49m637l2Po/s400/IMG_20140611_134201.jpg)
Take baby entertainment
Our activity table got the boot when we found heuristic play. But its handy at the allotment as a place to plonk froggy when the heavy tools are out. Its making a good bird scarer too. Sensory play is so easy too. Simply take one of your smaller baskets to the plot and add to its contents with things you find along the way.Take photos. Lots of them.
You won't believe the before and afters. It can bring you around when you are struggling to get motivated.
Plant your crops in batches
Nobody wants to be faced with a couple of hundred carrots at once. Plant a few weeks at a time to avoid a glut at harvest time.
Talk to other allotmenteers
We've found the allotment to be a really social environment with neighbouring allotmenteers offering lots of advice and use of their tools, compost and manure. Some have even offered free plants.
Enjoy it and create a space for relaxing.
Sometimes I have to stop to feed froggy. It's frustrating when you want to keep going. By creating a relaxing spot to chill out we've been able to be at the allotment longer. Snacks and water are a must to.