May at the Farmers Market – A Taste of Spring!
May is one of the most exciting months at the farmer’s market! Spring crops are in full swing, and the stalls are bursting with fresh produce, vibrant flowers, and homemade treats. From juicy strawberries and crisp lettuce to fresh eggs and handmade soaps, this month offers something for everyone.
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.
All About Pecans in Alabama
Pecans are found all over the state of Alabama, and can be a great food to focus on in a Farm to ECE lesson! In this article, we are sharing everything we have learned about pecans.
Building Relationships at the Farmers Market: More Than Just Shopping
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.
Seasonal Shopping at the Farmers Market: What’s Fresh and Why You Should Care
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.
Farmers Market 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Purchasing Local Foods
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 passion for sustainable agriculture and community engagement. As the owner of Boots on the Farm Consulting, LLC, she combines her background as a former early childhood education teacher with her […]
Purchasing Local Foods for Thanksgiving Celebrations
With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, it’s time to start planning for the holiday! A great way to celebrate with your program is by serving Thanksgiving-themed meals and snacks. Most of the traditional Thanksgiving staples can be made with fresh fruits and vegetables that can be sourced from your local farmers! We will share some ideas for foods to purchase at your local farmers market as you prepare for this month’s festivities.
Alabama Apple Crunch Day
You can celebrate Apple Crunch Day by purchasing and crunching into locally and regionally grown apples at 11am on Tuesday, October 18, 2022.
Buy Local, Eat Local
Farming makes up a huge part of the economy and jobs in Alabama. Our state and local economies depend on our farmers. Living in Alabama, we have many great opportunities to eat locally and benefit from what’s around us.
Farm to ECE in Alabama
Farm to early care and education (Farm to ECE) encompasses efforts that bring locally or regionally produced foods into ECE programs using three core strategies: local food sourcing, gardening, and food and agriculture education.
