Overview of Our Farm-Based Programs
Turning Roots Farm Education Programs provide area youth with a farm-based educational experience. Each of of our programs is designed for youth to participate in the meaningful work of a sustainable working farm. In addition, participants will deepen their connection to nature through exercises that ground them in the rhythms and cycles of the natural world. Some programs also include collaborative problem solving, constructive communication and other team building challenges. Some days participants will be planting seeds, other days they might be applying compost or harvesting vegetables. Specific projects depend on what is happening on the farm at that point in the season. Our focus is not just on the food, but also on strengthening our natural connections and transferring those learnings to our relationships with the people and places of our everyday lives. Many of our programs include opportunities for youth to learn to work together more effectively and to reflect on how these skills can be transferred to life off the farm.
School Programs
We offer programming for school groups that goes beyond a simple tour, and strive to really engage and connect students with the energy and activities of a working organic farm. Our farm is embedded in, and dependent on, the natural cycles of the moon, the creek, and the animals who live in the surrounding woods and meadows–so we try to bring this awareness into each of our programs as well. We work with teachers to create programs that build bridges between what students are learning in the classroom and what they can get their hands in and around on the farm experientially.
After-School Program
Our After-School Programs are offered for both elementary and middle school students. The programs run from 3.30pm-5.30pm, one afternoon per week, for five consecutive weeks. This progression allows participants to develop a deeper connection with the farm and learn incrementally about planting, harvesting and eating delicious organic vegetables.
Workshops
We offer various workshops throughout the growing season on topics such as starting a garden, animal husbandry, connection to nature, and teambuilding through work on the farm. Custom programs are also available. Contact us for more information.
Summer Camp
Campers will cultivate their connection to the natural world through exploring relationships and rhythms that we find here on the farm. In addition to our time in the garden, we have hands-on opportunities to work with and learn about our flock of chickens. Each day is a balance of games and activities, natural crafts and projects on the farm. For more information about our 2012 Summer Farm Camp, click here.
If you are interested in any of our programs, please email us at chris@turningrootsfarm.com. Thanks and keep up the good work of engaging our youth with our food and farms!
