The Old Watering Can

Each day, Grandma carries her two watering cans to her greenhouse. One is brand new; the other is old with a leak. One day, the old watering can apologises for its leak and all the water it loses every day. However, Grandma reassures it, explaining that all the leaked water falls onto seeds she had planted by the path which grow into beautiful flowers which Grandma then shares with her neighbours.

‘The Old Watering Can’ is a lovely, gentle story which shows how imperfections can actually be strengths. At first glance, the old watering can seems useless, no longer fit for purpose, and yet, Grandma has turned its leaking into a positive feature.

Like many of us, the watering can is so focused on its defect that it fails to notice the positive effect which it is having. The story is perfect for drawing attention to all the worthwhile things which we do, but might not notice whilst comparing ourselves to others. This, and Grandma’s kindness to the can and how she views it, are sure to be discussed as a result of sharing the story whether at home or at school. The story might also be used to talk about repurposing or upcycling things to give them a new purpose, perhaps leading to art/ craft activities. Old boots might become planters, for example.

The illustrations are warm and energetic, offering plenty of opportunity for storytelling as they are full of character and detail. The book closes with advice on growing wildflowers and pages to paint Grandma’s garden.

The Old Watering Can

Louise Royston-Smith

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1802587067

Published 21st April 2025