Launch of Michigan Farm to School & Early Care Network Announced

Imagine a place where young children develop lifelong healthy eating habits through vibrant, local food sources. This vision is becoming a reality, thanks to a community-driven initiative focused on connecting children with fresh, nutritious foods. Early childhood is a crucial time for establishing these dietary habits, and a new movement is making it easier than ever for families and caregivers to get involved.

Whether you’re preparing snacks for a day in Brighton or curious about meal sourcing at a local daycare, there’s an exciting statewide effort blossoming right in Michigan.

Understanding “Farm to Early Care and Education”

Often, the concept of “Farm to School” is familiar when discussing older children, but it’s equally relevant for the youngest learners. Farm to Early Care and Education (ECE) connects child care facilities with local farms, emphasizing three key elements:

Providing local foods: Incorporating fresh, Michigan-grown produce and grains into children’s meals and snacks.

Food education: Engaging young minds with fun, interactive activities to discover food origins.

Gardening experiences: Giving children the joy of planting, nurturing, and tasting their own garden produce.

Adopting these practices helps foster a positive relationship with food among children, adding vibrant colors to their plates and connecting them to Michigan’s rich agricultural landscape.

Introducing the Michigan Farm to School & Early Care Network

A new initiative, the Michigan Farm to School & Early Care Network, is now available to facilitate these connections. Building on two decades of grassroots efforts, this network offers an array of resources and opportunities for collaboration among educators, food service staff, farmers, and advocates across Michigan.

By joining this coordinated effort, stakeholders can engage in farm to school and ECE activities for children from birth to 18 years old.

Participate in the Network Launch & Celebration!

The upcoming virtual event offers a platform for providers and partners to receive updates, share experiences, and network:

What: Michigan Farm to School & Early Care Network Launch & Celebration

When: Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Where: Online via Zoom

Cost: Free!

To become a part of this enriching event, whether you’re a home daycare owner or an interested parent, contact Julie Lehman at lehmanju@msu.edu for more information.

Incorporating Farm-Fresh Ideas at Home

Families don’t need to wait for formal programs to start integrating local food practices. Here are some easy, practical ways to introduce farm-to-table concepts at home:

Visit Local Markets: Explore farmers markets in areas like downtown Howell, where children can pick out new fruits and vegetables to try.

Create a “Pizza Garden”: Even without a large yard, grow small plants like tomatoes or basil in pots, allowing children to participate in the watering and care.

Sensory Exploration: Encourage children to engage with vegetables through touch and smell before tasting them, making new foods less intimidating.

Support from Help Me Grow Livingston

Families seeking guidance on their child’s development and nutrition can find support through Great Start Livingston and Help Me Grow Livingston. These initiatives aim to create a supportive environment for every family.

Whether you are looking for child care that emphasizes healthy living, checking developmental milestones, or seeking food assistance, these resources are here to assist you.

Connect with Help Me Grow Livingston