As we enter the month of October, Arkansas gears up to celebrate Arkansas Farm to School Month – a time dedicated to connecting schools, early childhood education sites, and various organizations with local farms to provide children with access to fresh, healthy food.
This initiative is part of a nationwide effort to foster a deeper connection between communities and local food producers, enriching the lives of students and families alike. By changing food purchasing and education practices within schools and alternative learning environments, Arkansas Farm to School Month aims to empower children to make informed food choices while contributing to the local economy and creating vibrant communities.
One of the key components of Farm to School is the implementation of school gardens, which serve as invaluable educational tools. These gardens not only provide students with the opportunity to consume healthy foods but also enable them to engage in hands-on learning through gardening and farming. Studies have shown that when children are involved in growing their own food, they are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and are more willing to try new varieties.
Currently, Arkansas boasts an impressive 350 school gardens across the state, each varying in type and design, including greenhouses, raised beds, and containers inside classrooms. These gardens not only promote healthy eating habits but also foster a deeper connection to nature and provide valuable lessons in nutrition.