Preschoolers at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Child Development Center are digging into healthy habits through a hands-on gardening project funded by an Evans-Allen grant. The initiative, titled “Implementing Healthy Eating Habits While Combatting Obesity in Preschool Settings,” teaches children to plant, grow, and harvest vegetables, herbs, and fruits.
Dr. Marilyn Bailey, interim chair of UAPB’s Department of Human Sciences, said the demonstration garden helps kids understand where food comes from while engaging their senses. The program extends beyond Jefferson County to Bradley, Drew, and Chicot counties.
“One child thought fries came from McDonald’s,” Dr. Bailey said. “This project helps kids and families reconnect with real food and the soil it grows in.”
The initiative includes “Nutrition Café” sessions for parents and children to learn about healthy snacks and food prep. Dr. Kimberly Haynie and Dr. Jinnings Burruss recently taught lessons on good fats and how to make hummus.
Dr. Bailey hopes the program will spark lasting changes in eating habits and inspire families to start their own gardens at home.