The early years of a child’s life are full of discovery — and that includes discovering new foods. With more young children participating in California’s free School Meals for All and Transitional Kindergarten (TK) programs, there is a growing opportunity to shape lifelong healthy habits.

A child’s love for a particular fruit or vegetable can begin anywhere: in the classroom, the cafeteria, the garden — or at home. When children experience familiar ingredients in multiple settings, their curiosity grows, and so does their willingness to try new foods. The Center for Ecoliteracy’s Nourishing Students resources offer activities and recipes for educators, families, and school nutrition professionals featuring fruits and vegetables grown in California, including avocados, beans, carrots, cilantro, and radishes.