Nurturing Healthy Eaters: How Childcare Providers Collaborate with Local Farms for Fresh Children’s Meals

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Nurturing Healthy Eaters: How Childcare Providers Collaborate with Local Farms for Fresh Children’s Meals

Michigan State University Extension’s new initiative, Growing Healthy Eaters, is transforming how young children and childcare providers think about nutrition. Launched in 2023, the program focuses on improving access to healthy foods and educating kids about where their food comes from.

Dawn Earnesty, a dietitian and the program’s creator, emphasizes the importance of diverse foods for children’s development. “Childcare is a chance to introduce nutritious options that can stick with them for life,” she says. Targeting low-income areas often labeled as “food deserts,” the program has already seen involvement from 125 childcare providers and 21 farmers across 32 counties in Michigan.

Recent findings show encouraging results. In a study concluding in December, 81% of childcare providers reported better meal planning skills with fresh, local produce. Additionally, 76% gained knowledge about sourcing food from local farmers, while 80% improved their ability to serve these foods to children. There’s been a notable reduction in sugary drinks and an increase in whole grains among the food served.

Earnesty’s interest in child nutrition stemmed from her doctoral research, which showed a lack of fruits and veggies in meals provided by home-based childcare. Despite regulations requiring these items, many children were only served common vegetables like canned green beans and potatoes.

The program received funding from the federal SNAP Education initiative and the Allen Foundation, enabling providers to enhance their nutritional knowledge and food quality. Resources included garden kits, utensils for meal preparation, and funds for purchasing fresh produce.

Childcare provider Sheri Peterson shared her transformation after joining the program. Previously, her meals consisted of inexpensive staples like chicken nuggets and mac and cheese. With guidance from a nutrition coach, she now grows vegetables and buys fresh ones at local markets. Peterson not only improved her meals but also lost 70 pounds during this process, shaking off her previous reliance on canned foods.

Another participant, Doresa Walton-Mack, found that involving children in meal preparation encouraged them to try healthier options. “When kids help make a meal, they’re more likely to eat it,” she noted, as her students learned about different textures and flavors.

Participating farmer Paul Avery highlighted that many community members struggle with access to fresh produce. “It’s essential for people to see the benefits of eating fresh foods,” he explained.

Kafui Okai Adjei, a farmer in Harbor Springs, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of teaching children about nutrition and the origins of their food. “Education on health is critical for their future,” he said, in light of growing health concerns in the community.

Currently, Growing Healthy Eaters continues to thrive with SNAP’s support, providing essential resources to childcare providers. Though Peterson’s direct involvement has concluded, she remains committed to serving fresh vegetables and desires the program to be revitalized, stating, “It was a win-win for everyone involved.”

For more insights on improving childhood nutrition, visit the Michigan State University Extension.

Erica Hobbs is a Detroit-based writer with extensive experience in arts and culture reporting.



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