As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, fall brings a bounty of fresh produce that’s perfect for our little ones. Introducing children to fresh fruits and vegetables not only promotes healthy eating habits but also fosters a lifelong appreciation for nutritious foods. Here’s why fresh produce is essential for children and how fun fall snacks can make trying new fruits and veggies an exciting adventure!
A trip to the farmers market is more than just a chance to pick up fresh, local produce—it’s an opportunity to build connections with the people who work hard to grow the food we enjoy. Meeting farmers face-to-face can transform a simple shopping trip into a meaningful experience that benefits everyone involved.
This month, the garden becomes a classroom in itself, where every change can spark a conversation and every task can be a learning experience. It’s a reminder that, even as we prepare for winter, there’s still so much growth and discovery to be had.
There’s something magical about stepping into a space where the seasons dictate what’s available, and the produce is as fresh as it gets. If you’re not already a farmers’ market regular, let me tell you why you might want to start—and what you can expect to find this season.
September has always held a special place in my heart as an early childhood educator. It’s a time of new beginnings—fresh faces in the classroom, the excitement of a new school year, and the start of cooler weather that breathes new life into our garden. For me, the garden is not just a place to grow plants, but a vibrant classroom where young children can explore, learn, and connect with nature in meaningful ways.
This article has been written by Alicia Jordan, a partner of the Alabama Farm to ECE Coalition. Alicia is a dedicated small farmer with a
The warm months of summer are a time of abundance and growth, especially on farms and in programs that offer gardening experiences in Alabama. For children, this season offers a unique opportunity to learn about where their food comes from and to experience the joys of harvesting fresh produce.
As a Boots on the Farm consultant, Alicia Jordan has the privilege of seeing firsthand how nature can positively impact children. Gardening is not just about planting seeds and harvesting vegetables; it’s a powerful tool for sensory exploration and learning.
Planting seeds with young children can be a fun and educational experience that introduces them to the wonders of nature and growing plants. Here are some tips to make the process engaging and safe for young children.
This past fall, Auburn University of Montgomery (AUM)’s Early Learning Center took part in the Farm to ECE Learning Collaborative! Being involved in the Learning Collaborative has sparked a love for gardening among them, especially for Lead Teacher Chelsea. Chelsea now shares what she learns every day about gardening with the children in her classroom.
