Kids' Farm Adventure: Learning About Food and Nature

Kids trading their school desks for muddy boots. They're not in a classroom but on a farm, exploring rows of lettuce, carrots, and other yummy vegetables. This isn't just a fun day out; it's a lesson on nutrition and environmental science. For over two decades, the HEAL Project has taken kids from San Mateo County schools on this unique adventure. The two-acre organic farm just off Highway 1 is their playground. Here, they learn about plants, bugs, and the importance of eating healthy. They even get to pick, prepare, and eat their own food! Sara Neale, their guide, teaches them about organic farming. No chemicals here! She encourages them to try new foods and reminds them not to judge others' choices. This hands-on experience helps kids connect with nature and understand where their food comes from. Last year, the program reached 4, 100 students. Many were from low-income areas like Redwood City and East Palo Alto. These farm visits might seem like simple fun, but they're packed with vital lessons about healthy eating and environmental awareness. The HEAL Project started small in 2001 with a group of parents. Now, it's a nonprofit with 15 staff members and about 90 volunteers. Schools pay for visits, but those from underserved areas get discounts or free trips. Teachers like Stacey Walsh from El Granada Elementary find these visits invaluable. Kids learn best by doing, she says. Picking veggies and making tacos is more exciting than reading about it in a book. On their recent visit, the kids learned about plant parts, aphids, and the difference between tomatoes and tomatillos. Then, it was time to cook! Neale showed them knife safety, and they got creative with their tacos. Ashley Murray, a third grader, loved the green onions. Her classmate, John Lacerda, was braver than he thought, trying carrots instead of onions. Wolf Guel, another student, was excited to learn about plant care. These farm visits are more than just fun; they're investing in these kids' futures, encouraging healthy habits and a love for nature.