Discover Where Your Food Comes From: Kids Learn at Farm Field Days – ETV News

Carbon County Farm Bureau recently held an exciting Farm Field Day for third graders in Carbon and Emery County. The event also welcomed some homeschool groups and preschoolers. The goal was simple: show kids where their food actually comes from. More than 350 children gathered at the Fairgrounds Indoor Arena, eagerly rotating between different learning stations about farming.

At the various stations, kids interacted with live animals, learned about food production, and participated in hands-on activities. They met adorable chicks and turkey poults, got up close to a beehive, and even played with dirt, discovering gooey earthworms. One of the stars of the show was Jezebel, a friendly milk cow. Kids were surprised to learn that she drinks a bathtub full of water daily to produce her milk! They also discovered how cows contribute to many foods, from milk and ice cream to even Jell-O and Band-Aids. There were fake udders for children to try their hand at milking too.

Another engaging station was all about how to grow pizza. Kids learned about each ingredient’s journey from farm to table, which gave them a deeper appreciation for their favorite pizza.

The Health Department’s Parents as Teachers program was also present, supporting families with children from prenatal to kindergarten. According to Amy Ruggeri, the program director, the event was a fantastic way for families to experience farm life. “Many of our families don’t get a chance to see farm animals,” she mentioned.

By the end of the day, it was clear that the kids left with a greater understanding of the time and effort that goes into producing food. Every detail, from composting to animal branding, was highlighted, making farm life feel real and relevant to them.

Such educational experiences are vital, especially considering that many children today are disconnected from their food sources. According to a recent report by the USDA, about 10% of American households were food insecure in 2021, a stark reminder of the importance of food education. Events like this foster a deeper understanding of food systems and promote appreciation for the work that goes into feeding communities.

Engaging the younger generation in agriculture isn’t just educational; it lays the groundwork for their future choices about health, sustainability, and farming practices. By making these connections, kids take home lessons that can influence how they think about their meals for years to come.

For more information on food education initiatives, you can visit USDA’s website.

Check out this related article: Understanding Food Security: Its Importance and Impact on Global Well-Being | Insights from the World Food Programme