YOUTH EDUCATION
One in nine Colorado children aren’t getting adequate nutrition due to financial constraints. In schools across the Denver Metro area, our garden and taste education classes through our Seed to Plate program increase nutritional food security among youth. Students who take our classes get a weekly meal with fresh local produce and learn nutritious eating habits. They then bring their knowledge into their homes, inspiring siblings and family members to learn about their food systems and cook more nutritious food.
AT A GLANCE.
Seed to Plate Instructor Team
WHAT IS SEED TO PLATE?
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Seed to Plate is Slow Food Denver’s youth education program that teaches children the entire seed-to-plate process. Using a learner driven approach inspires students to develop healthy, lifelong eating habits by making the connection between where food comes from and how it is prepared. Youth will try new foods, make delicious meals, and get excited about fresh food!
Expect your child to leave this program with an increased interest in fresh fruits and vegetables, an overall healthier relationship with food, and a new found joy in creating and sharing meals with others.
WHAT IS OUR GOAL?
The goal of Seed to Plate is to provide an interactive learning environment that transforms students from passive food consumers to creators and increases their health awareness. Students learn practical garden and kitchen skills through the growing of food and preparation of dishes they enjoy, helping them gain confidence and independence. Participation in the entire seed to plate experience results in a more intimate relationship with food and a deeper respect for the environment.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Seed to Plate weekly classes incorporate the school garden through planting, maintaining, harvesting and preparing food in seasonal cooking classes. Host schools are not required to have a garden in order to participate. Classes still incorporate the garden through indoor activities, storytelling, and education that fosters seasonality, where food comes from, and how it is grown. Our program utilizes the Slow Food USA School Garden Curriculum, written by Denver local, Gigia Kolouch.
The program runs seasonally for 6-12 week sessions, depending on the season and school schedule. Classes are offered during and after-school. Average class size is 12 students and we provide an experienced instructor and all the supplies needed for each class. These classes are taught both virtually and in person.
“The Seed to Plate program was something my little ones (and myself!) looked forward to every week! Instructors were patient and encouraging, even towards my youngest. ...It was wonderful seeing how confident they became, chopping with their own knives, sautéing and stirring things in hot pots. This class does everything right in sparking curiosity and the joy of cooking.”
Seed to Plate Parent
“...by preparing arepas, a traditional Venezuelan dish, the class celebrated cultural diversity and fostered an appreciation for the different backgrounds within our group. This experience not only broadened their culinary skills but also deepened their understanding and respect for the rich cultural traditions represented by their peers.”
Classroom Teacher
SEED TO PLATE IMPACT
2024 Stats
Reached 45 Schools (30 Title I) and 14 Youth Sites
Held 989 Classes
Taught 2085 Students
Provided 11633 Meals
Work one on one with Denver students as they build cooking and gardening skills.
Assist our instructors in nurturing the next generation of consumers and producers.
Watch wonder blossom as students experience whole foods and joy of taste.
