Plastic suction rounds lift potted
plants off the ground and out of
a kid's path.

Houseplants breathe life into any part of the house. But parents may be reluctant to put them in children's rooms for fear of kids knocking them over during a rousing game of hide-and-seek. But plants can still blossom in children's spaces -- and kids can learn to care for the growing plants -- with this simple, inexpensive project.

• 4-inch plastic pots
• Easy-care plants
• Glossy acrylic paints
• Paintbrushes
• Plastic suction rounds with attached hooks
• Hammer and nail

1. Paint the outside of the plastic pots, and let dry.

2. Using double-sided tape, line the inside of the pot with a plastic sandwich bag or a patch of a garbage bag so the pot's drain holes are plugged (this will prevent soil from leaking out once the pots are mounted to the window).

3. With a hammer and nail, poke a hole just under the rim of each pot on one side, keeping in mind that the design on the opposite side will be most visible when the pot is mounted. Thread the suction round's hook through the hole. Place the plant into the pot and water lightly.

4. Clean the window thoroughly and let dry. Position the painted pots against the window as desired, then mount them by pressing the suction round firmly against the glass (there's no need to moisten the round or the glass). Every week or so, your child should water the plants lightly.