Proudly Introducing SnackTime Explorers, a brand-new FFVP educational toolkit designed in collaboration with FRESHEALTH!
The SnackTime Explorers program is a series of adaptable mini-lessons designed to supplement educators who participate in the USDA’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable (FFVP) program. FFVP brings fresh-cut produce to eligible schools, increasing exposure to and familiarity with fresh fruits and vegetables. SnackTime Explorers is curated to accompany the weekly FFVP produce deliveries in a fun and fresh way. Designed around the Food Education Standards, SnackTime Explorers will act as a guidepost to help students and educators build connections to food, each other, and their communities.
Excite & Inspire Students During Snack Time!
SnackTime Explorers transforms classroom snack time into an exciting journey and exploration of new foods! This program has been thoughtfully designed with both students and educators in mind. Participating teachers receive an accessible framework to introduce new produce to their students, and students are provided with a developmentally appropriate structure that facilitates self and social awareness. Are you ready to become a SnackTime Explorer? Grab your binoculars and knapsack and try out our SnackTime Explorers Sample Lesson in your classroom or home today!
The SnackTime Explorers pilot program launched in over 30 Chicago Public School classrooms on January 11, 2023. K-3rd grade CPS students filled up their “Produce Passports” with everything from rutabagas to blood oranges, and grew in their understanding not just of produce, but also their own decision-making skills. Read more about the pilot program on our blog!
Learn more about FRESHEALTH produce here!
SnackTime Explorers is expanding!
Pilot Light and FRESHEALTH are proud to announce that SnackTime Explorers is growing in the 2023-24 school year.
Kindergarten-8th Grade teachers at participating FFVP schools in the following districts will be eligible for SnackTime Explorers this year:
- Chicago Public Schools
- Indianapolis Public Schools
- Pellston and Shelby Michigan public districts
- Hammond, IN public schools
Applications for Lead Teachers are now closed. Keep an eye on your email if you applied – a member of our team will be in touch soon!
Not currently eligible but still interested in SnackTime Explorers? Be sure you’re signed up for the Pilot Light newsletter to receive updates on future expansions of the program and other Food Education opportunities!
Field Notes
Find the Latest SnackTime Explorers & FRESHEALTH partnership news here!
Pilot Light, FRESHEALTH, & the USDA join Puprika the Puppy Chef on a SnackTime Explorer Adventure!
Pilot Light & FRESHEALTH Advocate for Food Education in DC!
SnackTime Explorers Launches in CPS This Week!
Press
Our SnackTime Explorers pilot program launch in CPS made big headlines & even hit the airwaves! LISTEN to our feature on WBEZ’s RESET here and read about the launch in Farm Week Now, Perishable News, The Packer, AndNowUKnow, Blue Book Services, and Patch.com.
Questions? Email SnackTimeExplorers@pilotlightchefs.org.