Cultivating young minds

Written on 02/15/2025
JC Barnett III


Carver Center, Purdue Extension offer Junior Master Gardener

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The Carver Community Center in Kokomo continues to expand its educational offerings by partnering with Purdue Extension - Howard County to introduce the Junior Master Gardener program, “Learn, Grow, Eat & Go.” This hands-on program engages children, primarily in grades K-2, but adaptable for K-5, in the exciting world of gardening, nutrition, and healthy living.

Through this initiative, children are introduced to various types of foods and vegetables, learning not only about their nutritional value but also how they are grown. They explore the gardening process from start to finish — understanding when to plant, how to maintain crops, and eventually harvesting the fruits of their labor. This hands-on experience fosters a deeper appreciation for food, where it comes from, and the importance of fresh produce in daily life.



Beyond gardening, the program incorporates arts and crafts activities to emphasize key lessons. Kids create projects that highlight the different parts of plants and vegetables, reinforcing their understanding in a fun and creative way. Additionally, “Storytime” plays an important role in the program, as children engage with books that explore food, farming, and the connection between plants and human life. These stories make the lessons more relatable and memorable for young learners.



One of the most exciting aspects of “Learn, Grow, Eat & Go” is taste testing. Kids are given the opportunity to sample fresh vegetables and other foods, expanding their palates and encouraging healthy eating habits. This interactive experience allows them to connect what they’ve learned in the garden to the food on their plates, making nutrition education both practical and enjoyable.



The collaboration between Carver Community Center and Purdue Extension - Howard County reflects Carver’s ongoing commitment to providing engaging, educational, and life-enriching programs for Kokomo’s youth. By introducing children to gardening, healthy eating, and environmental awareness, this program lays the foundation for a lifetime of informed food choices and sustainable living.



As Carver continues to thrive with new life, programs like this ensure that its impact extends far beyond its walls—into homes, gardens, and the future of the community. Through learning, growing, eating, and going, these young gardeners are cultivating a healthier tomorrow.

For more information about how to get your children involved, please visit kokomocarver.org, or email kokomocarver@gmail.com