Early Childhood Gardens
As part of the State of Nevada Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Plan, Extension will pilot a formal early childhood garden model in Nevada, with related curriculum (coming soon!), which will serve as a sustainable garden model for other preschools throughout the state. 9th Bridge School, in Downtown Las Vegas, hosts a large-scale, “mothership” demonstration model, with an additional small-scale demonstration model at Kid’s Co-op Preschool. The program features on-site food gardens, outdoor kitchen areas, curriculum standards alignment, healthy eating policies, and family and community engagement. Throughout the year, children spend structured time in the garden growing, harvesting, and tasting fresh fruits and vegetables. Extension staff offers training and education for teachers, site staff, parents and volunteers to help oversee and carry out the goals for all Health and Nutrition garden projects to accomplish long-term sustainability.
Additionally, Healthy Food Systems provides additional resources and ideas for garden-based nutrition education located in the Healthy Kids Resource Center garden-based nutrition toolbox (coming soon!)
