My CSA Farm, Lakeplain Prairie, has a special garden area just for children. Not only do CSA member parents have an opportunity to complete their service requirement uninterrupted, children have an opportunity to learn about gardening. Two things children love is to play in the dirt and to be active. Letting them plant, care for and harvest their own little garden accomplishes both. The underlying benefit to parents and food retailers is that they are learning. Children will experience a sense of pride and enjoyment when growing and cultivating their own fruits, vegetables and flowers. They also tend to be more willing to taste produce they grew on their own, leading to healthy eating and less risk of obesity. And remember, today’s little farmer is tomorrow’s busy consumer.

As a food retailer, supporting your local CSA farms makes good business sense. Cross marketing, educational programs and engaging children are all ways to increase retail sales. Long term benefits to your retail business will come through fostering community goodwill, consumer dietary health and a strong local economy.