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Root Up-Kids

Extension Education

Jamielyn Daugherty
Florida-Friendly Landscaping/Urban Forestry
UF/IFAS Extension
The Villages

Abstract

Research shows that most U.S. citizens are removed from direct involvement with agriculture and lack knowledge about modern agricultural practices (Duncan and Broyles, 2006). A knowledge deficit regarding the proper preparation, use, and storage of wholesome foods can contribute to poor nutrition. There is a need for educational programs that both provide an opportunity for participants to feel more connected to local agriculture and encourage the use of nutritious and locally available fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, and eggs. Roots Up – Kids is an interactive program designed to educate 4-H youth on research-based information, focusing on food systems related to both production and consumption of local foods.

The program objective is to connect participants to local farms and agricultural commodities while increasing knowledge in healthy food choices, food safety practices, growing their food, and understanding how food originates. The FCS and 4-H Agent developed this program to deliver six unique, 1-hour classes to youth ages 8-12, with each class showcasing a local agricultural commodity. The 4-H agent discussed the production of the selected commodity, the FCS agent taught about the nutrition and health benefits of the product, and the Residential Horticulture agent supplemented agricultural education in conjunction with farmers. Each class concluded with an opportunity for participants to sample recipes featuring the selected commodity, and participants left with recipes that they could try at home. 

Evaluation data demonstrated that youth gained knowledge in healthy food choices, food safety practices, and identifying food sources. Evaluation data was collected utilizing surveys, participation comments, observations, and parent interviews three months after the last class. The collected data demonstrated that youth gained knowledge in healthy food choices, food safety practices, and identifying food sources. From participating in Roots Up – Kids, youth reported the following:

•            80% learned how to spend, save, and give money

•            86% learned about new community service opportunities

•            93% reported knowledge gain on financial literacy

•            93% reported learning how to plant vegetables

•            93% learned about local farms and agricultural sources

Parents reported, 3 months after the program, that 93% of participants had revisited local farms introduced during the program.

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: Jamielyn Daugherty, Dallas Meringolo, Lori Johnson
  1. Daugherty, J. Residential Horticulture Agent, UF/IFAS Extension , Florida, 32778
  2. Meringolo, D. 4-H Youth Development, UF/IFAS Extension , Florida, 32778
  3. Johnson , L. Family and Consumer Science Agent, UF/IFAS Extension , Florida, 32778