Pumpkins and Seasonal Eating!

Ground Ed has the MOST fun with pumpkins! Why pumpkins, you ask? Because they’re the ultimate fall superstar, and exploring them is a fun, hands-on way for students to connect with nature and learn about the benefits of eating seasonally. Seasonal foods, like pumpkins and squash, are at their freshest, most nutritious, and most flavorful when they’re in season, and understanding these natural rhythms helps us make healthier, more sustainable food choices.

The pumpkin lesson is all about exploring the wonderful world of pumpkins and squash. Students get to touch and examine different types, discussing how nature shows us when food is ready for harvest. This tactile exploration not only engages their curiosity, but also opens up conversations about biodiversity and the importance of local produce. To make things even more interactive, students sort pumpkin seeds and partake in a round of pumpkin bowling, adding a splash of movement and fun that makes learning stick.

Of course, no pumpkin-themed lesson would be complete without a taste test! Students sample roasted pumpkin seeds and experience the cozy, warming aroma of pumpkin pie spice, creating a full sensory experience that embodies the essence of fall. By integrating touch, taste, and smell, this lesson becomes a memorable journey through the flavors and scents of the season they will never forget!

Understanding the patterns of seasonal foods isn’t just a lesson in pumpkins; it’s a foundation for making thoughtful food choices that promote health and sustainability. It’s our way of showing students that nature provides us with what we need when we need it, encouraging them to look at their own food choices through the lens of the changing seasons. 🎃