Exploring Winter Farming with Young Learners in Alabama: A Guide for Early Childhood Educators

As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, farming may seem like something that only happens in warmer months. But in Alabama, winter farming is just as important as any other season, with farmers growing cold-hardy crops and caring for animals year-round. For early childhood educators, this time of year presents a wonderful opportunity to introduce young children to the world of winter farming and help them understand where their food comes from, even when it’s cold outside.

Through a series of engaging lessons, children can learn about the crops that thrive in the winter months, like collard greens, turnips, and kale, and how Alabama farmers use sustainable methods to grow food year-round.

Activities range from building a simple solar oven to demonstrate solar power, to understanding the importance of crop rotation and winterizing farm animals. These hands-on experiences offer a fun, engaging way for children to discover the cycles of agriculture and the significance of sustainability.

Why is it important to teach young children about winter farming? Understanding agriculture—from how food is grown to how animals are cared for—helps children develop a deeper connection to the natural world. It fosters environmental responsibility, encourages healthy eating habits, and teaches the hard work and care involved in producing food, even in the colder months. 

By introducing winter farming to children in Alabama, ECE providers can foster a sense of curiosity, responsibility, and appreciation for the food they eat and the farmers who work hard to grow it—no matter the season.

Check out this series of lesson plans designed to help you bring the wonders of winter farming into your classroom and inspire the children in your care to be environmental stewards!