Our older relatives likely did it without thinking about it and many of us are finding value in it again. Whether it’s for recreation, economics or nutrition, gardening trends are ablaze. Did you know that gardeners usually eat more vegetables than non-gardeners?
School gardens are also gaining popularity, especially with high profile encouragement from the likes of First Lady Michelle Obama. School gardens can teach students not only nutrition, but also tie to subjects such as Science, Math, English and Social Studies. After evaluating school gardens, the National Gardening Association found improvements in students’ motor skills, scholastic achievement, self confidence, leadership skills and attitudes towards school and the environment.
Even if your school hasn’t found the volunteers or the resources to spearhead a school garden, you can bring gardens into the classroom by planting a Milk Carton Garden! Many seeds grow fast enough to plant and enjoy before the end of the school year like tomatoes, radishes and sunflowers. Find a healthy recipe that incorporates your freshly grown produce for an interactive healthy party the kids are sure to love!
To find registered school gardens in your area, grant opportunities and more, visit KidsGardening! For tips and resources, including ideas to celebrate garden month visit NationalGardenMonth.org. You may also find classes offered at your local California Farm Bureau office to help you garden at home. In this case, dirty finger nails are encouraged! Get digging!
Tracy Witmer, R.D.
Territory Manager
Tracy Witmer, Registered Dietitian
About me:
Tracy Witmer is a registered dietitian and Territory Manager for Dairy Council of California. Within the districts and schools of her 10-county territory, she engages teachers to use nutrition education in the classroom and is touched by the testimonies she hears from teachers, parents and students about its impact.
Tracy volunteers her time to serve as the 2011-2012 President of the Northern Area Dietetic Association. She received her B.S. in Nutrition Science with a Minor in Spanish at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and completed her dietetic internship at CSU Fresno.
As a dietitian, Tracy enjoys dispelling misconceptions about healthy eating and encourages a positive, individual, holistic approach to nutrition. She’s convinced everyone can find ways to eat well and be active, no matter if your day is spent in a school, office, home, car, field or factory. Though she keeps it simple in the kitchen, Tracy’s adventurous spirit is evident in her eating habits. She believes no one should pass an opportunity to try new food when presented with it… at least just a bite.
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