If you ask your child where their food comes from, they’ll likely answer, “The grocery store.” Although little ones may know the origins of certain foods in theoretical terms, like chickens laying eggs, they may not fully understand how those ingredients get to the table. Teaching children where food comes from and how it’s produced, and enhancing those lessons with activities like a visit to a farm, can benefit them throughout their lives.

What Children Gain By Learning About Food Sources

Educating children about food will have a positive impact on their diets and nutrition. Unfortunately, many sugary, processed junk foods are marketed toward children. All too often, these foods are preferred over healthier alternatives that lack cartoon characters and bright packaging to attract young consumers.

However, research shows that when children are actively engaged in producing their own food, they’re more likely to be enthusiastic about vegetables and like the taste. 

Children will also develop a stronger connection to the world and the need to protect the planet. When they understand that clean water and air as well as healthy plants and animals are all vital to maintaining the food supply, they’re more likely to actively preserve resources.

Teaching children about food production is an excellent introduction to scientific concepts as well, from understanding the weather and plant growth cycles to the needs of farm animals and how different foods are made. The applications are practically endless, making science fun and relevant for all ages. 

How to Teach Kids About Their Food 

Teaching kids about where their food comes from can take place at school, home, the grocery store, and the garden. If you want to expand your child’s knowledge, try:

Visit a Local Farm 

Sign up for a farm tour to learn about the daily routine and how food is produced. Bring home some fresh food to sample. 

Grow a Garden

Even a small plot of vegetables can give your kids a sense of accomplishment and a hands-on understanding of where food comes from. Some easy beginner crops to try include cucumbers, carrots, and tomatoes.

Shop at Farmer’s Markets 

Check out the local foods, sample new flavors, and talk to the sellers about how they make their products. To help your child learn more, steer the conversation to the seasonality of certain products and the importance of shopping local. 

Help your kids learn more about their food with a trip to Surfing Goat Dairy in Kula, HI. Since 2002, this local goat farm has produced award-winning organic dairy products, soaps, and chocolate truffles. The whole family can interact with the animals to learn more about goat farming.  Visit their website or call (808) 878-2870 when the dairy is opening up again. Keep up with the latest news on Facebook.