Gardening and Nutrition Experiences
for the Young Child
Early SproutsTasting
Suggestions for Teachers and Volunteers
Always have a portion of the Early Sprouts recipe- children will be more willing to try the recipe if you are eating with them and model how to try new foods.
Invite children to serve themselves from a common bowl by taking one scoop from the bowl. Offer a second helping once the child has finished the first portion.
Be a positive role model and be adventurous about trying new things. Encourage the children to do the same. The goal is for all children to at least try one bite of the recipe.
If you like the recipe, share your enthusiasm and positive comments. If you do not like the recipe, please be discrete (do not openly criticize the food). Remember that it takes multiple tries of a new food to become accustomed to it. Give yourself and the food a chance!
Compliment the children on the recipe - many of them participated in making the snack. Thank them for their hard work and for making delicious food.
Ask the children to explain how they made the food (ingredients, stirring, measuring, etc.). They will be eager to talk about their hard work and the recipe.
Keep the table conversation pleasant. Talk about pleasant things and discourage the children from talking about unpleasant topics or openly criticizing the food offerings. Remind them to respect the feelings of their friends and teachers who prepared the food for them.
