Earth Day is a time to celebrate our beautiful planet—and what better way to honor the earth than by enjoying the foods it gives us? Spring is the perfect season to try something new, especially when it comes to vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned veggie lover or just starting to explore, Earth Day is a fun opportunity to connect with nature and your plate in a whole new way.
🥦 Why Try New Vegetables?
Eating a variety of vegetables isn’t just good for your body—it’s also good for the planet. Locally grown, seasonal veggies support sustainable farming and reduce environmental impact. Plus, new flavors, colors, and textures can make mealtimes more interesting and enjoyable.
Trying new vegetables can also support:
- Sensory exploration (touch, smell, taste, sight)
- Language growth (talking about what you see, feel, and taste)
- Family routines and shared experiences
- Feeding confidence in selective eaters
🌱 Easy Ways to Celebrate Earth Day with Veggies
1. Visit a Farmers Market or Garden
Pick out one vegetable you’ve never tried before. Ask the vendor how to prepare it—or look up a simple recipe together.
2. Do a Taste Test at Home
Create a “veggie sampler plate” with small bites of 3–4 new or less-familiar vegetables (raw, roasted, or steamed). Use fun describing words: crunchy, sweet, earthy, soft, juicy, green, spicy.
3. Use AAC or Visual Supports
For AAC users, create a board or page with veggie names, colors, and describing words like “I like it,” “no thanks,” “crunchy,” or “try again.” This helps with communication during meals and supports self-advocacy.
4. Talk About Where Food Comes From
Look at a map, plant seeds, or watch a short video about farming. Connecting food to the earth helps build appreciation and curiosity.
🧡 Keep It Pressure-Free
Trying new foods should feel safe and positive. Offer choices, model curiosity, and celebrate small wins—like smelling, touching, or taking a tiny bite. Every step is progress.
This Earth Day, try something green—and not just in your recycling bin! From crunchy snap peas to colorful beets, there’s a whole world of vegetables waiting to be explored. Celebrate the planet, your plate, and the power of trying something new.
Happy Earth Day! 🌍🥕