Head Start students at Sumner and Genesee are building healthy habits through hands-on learning experiences that engage their curiosity and senses. In Sumner Head Start, Room 107, children explored raw collard greens using their five senses. They observed the color and texture, felt the leaves, smelled them, and even listened to the sounds they made. Later, during lunch, students compared their findings with cooked collard greens and recorded their observations on a class graph, turning the experience into both a science and nutrition lesson. A playful moment during centers even included a zebra puppet joining in to “taste” the greens, adding creativity and fun to the activity.

At Genesee Head Start, Room 4, students have been actively participating in the Eat Well Play Hard program, where they are learning about healthy foods through interactive lessons. As part of the program, children had the opportunity to try a variety of salad ingredients, including snap peas, and discuss which foods they liked and which they did not. These taste-testing experiences encourage children to try new foods while building awareness of healthy choices.

Together, these activities highlight how Head Start classrooms create meaningful learning opportunities that connect nutrition, exploration, and play. By engaging children in hands-on experiences, students not only learn about healthy foods but also build confidence, curiosity, and lifelong habits that support their well-being.

Learn more about the Head Start program by visiting: www.peace-caa.org/programs/hs/