Raleigh, NC -- (SBWire) -- 07/07/2014 --Primary Beginnings, a Raleigh preschool with two locations in North Raleigh, has adopted the Preventing Obesity by Design (POD) program at the Spring Forest Road location to teach kids the importance of healthy foods by planting gardens with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Apple trees, pepper plants, snow peas, strawberry plants, and sweet potatoes are all part of the garden. The growing of these fresh fruits and vegetables is to help prevent childhood obesity. The child care center was featured recently on the cover of the Preventing Obesity by Design-Wake Newsletter for their gardens.
The children plant, water, and pick the plants. From start to finish, they get to learn about the process of growing fruits and vegetables. They also get to taste the foods they grew themselves, without dressings, sauces, or any added ingredients. The fresh, non-processed ingredients are picked and used in lunches and snacks for the kids.
Michele Baker, executive director of the Raleigh preschool said, “We believe it’s very important for kids to learn the importance of nutrition at a young age, and by growing these fruits and vegetables themselves, they are excited to pick them and eat them.” Watering the plants has become a favorite activity for the kids to help with. “It also teaches them responsibility,” continued Baker.
Primary Beginnings’ implementation of the nutrition program has been a positive experience for teachers and children alike. Healthy nutrition, combined with getting kids outdoors and actively involved is a lifestyle that the teachers at the preschool are hoping to make permanent. Promoting healthy food choices and providing hands-on gardening are how the staff at Primary Beginnings are helping to prevent childhood obesity.
To learn more about Primary Beginnings' POD program, please visit http://www.primarybeginnings.com/blog/raleigh-preschool-nutrition-education-program.
To learn more about Primary Beginnings’ other educational programs, please visit http://www.primarybeginnings.com/programs.
About Primary Beginnings
Primary Beginnings is a Raleigh 5-star rated preschool and child care center. They offer infant and toddler, preschool and K-5 after-school programs, in addition to hosting a variety of summer events. Learn more about their programs and curriculum by visiting http://www.primarybeginnings.com.
Raleigh Preschool Works to Prevent Childhood Obesity