We become what we repeatedly do.
~Sean Covey
This quote from Sean Covey was included in the USDA article on the Power of Produce Club (POP Club) that has cropped up at farmers markets. This quote is especially true when it comes to choices and the importance of making healthy choices. With rising concern regarding childhood obesity in the United States, it is encouraging to see kid friendly programs that cultivate children’s ability to make healthy food choices. That is exactly what children have the opportunity to do each Tuesday at the POP Club at the River Church Farmers Market off of Sixes Road.
The Power of Produce Club is not a program unique the Around Woodstock area. It was originally started in Oregon, and has spread to markets across our nation. Locally, it is held at the River Church Farmers Market which is open from 2:00-6:00pm on Tuesdays.
A Produce Passport is granted to each child that signs up for the POP Club. A weekly activity is available for children to participate in; some of these kid activities include beehive observation, making fruit or herb infused water, and building your own trail mix. With fun-filled activities for the little ones, they are granted the opportunity to participate in the farmers market in a kid friendly manner. After completing a variety of activities, participants can win a free kid’s meal from Century House Tavern in downtown Woodstock. Additionally, school groups are invited to participate in the POP Club, and Market Manager Tricia Nitti loves to share with them about the produce and healthy food choices. What a great way to begin their road to healthy eating, and understanding the power of the local economy at the market level.
In addition to great health and economic lessons, there is further opportunity for science, social studies, and math to be integrated into this experience. Pictures and upcoming events for the River Church Farmers Market are listed on the Facebook page for the market. Find out more about the Power of Produce and how it got it’s start at the Oregon City Farmers Market.
If you get a chance to stop by the market or see any other happenings around Woodstock be sure to share a pic with us on Facebook or Twitter!
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