Sprouts at the Market

Sprouts at the Market is the Market's nutrition and farm linkage programming for kids ages 3-8. Got a "Sprout" in your life? Bringing them to the Market's monthly Sprouts events can encourage them to try new foods, help them learn more about where food comes from and who grows it, and why fresh fruits and vegetables are so good for us!

Each month brings new fruits and vegetables to the Market, and Sprouts gives participating kids the opportunity to give these locally-grown foods a try. There's always a theme, and there's always something yummy to eat! Sprouts also functions as a self-guided tour through the Market, with tables scattered throughout where participants can stop and learn. Our nutrition programming has been developed by a dietetics graduate student, Jennifer Hewitt, for the past three seasons. And to better teach kids where our food comes from, participating farmers wear Sprouts nametags - Sprouts (and their big people) are more than welcome to ask these farmers questions.

Every child that visits all the stations receives a Certificate of Participation and occasionally, we have special prizes. Art Mart Toys offers a 25% discount on their merchandise to kids presenting their Sprouts certificate on Sprouts Saturdays, too!

Planning for Sprouts events in 2012 is underway. Please check back in January 2012 for Sprouts dates and themes.

Many, many thanks go to our growers, local businesses, and partners who supported Sprouts in 2011. Sprouts is a success because they help us out. So - many thanks to:

Pekara Bakery & Bistro