The Learn, Grow, Eat & Go! (LGEG) program is a transformative educational initiative that combines gardening, nutrition, and hands-on learning for students and families. Developed by the Junior Master Gardener program, it empowers children to understand where food comes while fostering healthy eating habits.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
✔ What the LGEG program is all about
✔ How it benefits students, schools, and communities
✔ Key activities & lessons
✔ How to get involved
🌱 What is Learn, Grow, Eat & Go!?
This 10-week curriculum integrates:
- Gardening – Students grow vegetables in school or home gardens
- Nutrition – Lessons on healthy eating and food choices
- Science & Math – Measuring plant growth, soil testing, and more
- Physical Activity – Encourages movement through garden tasks
Goal: To reduce childhood obesity and inspire lifelong healthy habits.
📚 How It Works in Schools
1. Classroom Lessons
- Plant life cycles, photosynthesis, and soil science
- Food group education (MyPlate guidelines)
2. Hands-On Gardening
- Students plant & care for easy-grow veggies (lettuce, radishes, beans)
- Learn composting and water conservation
3. Taste Tests & Cooking
- Kids sample fresh produce they’ve grown
- Simple recipes like garden salads or veggie wraps
4. Family Engagement
- Take-home activities encourage gardening and cooking with parents
💡 Why It’s Effective
✅ Improves academic performance (STEM learning through gardening)
✅ Reduces picky eating – Kids are more willing to try veggies they’ve grown
✅ Encourages physical activity – Digging, planting, and watering keep kids moving
✅ Builds life skills – Responsibility, patience, and teamwork
🏡 Bringing LGEG Home
Families can adopt these practices too!
✔ Start a container garden (even in small spaces)
✔ Involve kids in meal prep with homegrown produce
✔ Use free LGEG activity sheets for fun learning
📢 How to Get Involved
- For Teachers/Schools:
- Visit Junior Master Gardener for curriculum materials
- Apply for school garden grants
- For Parents:
- Download LGEG family guides
- Join a community garden
