Food & Nutrition

At Fulton Community School & Farm, we believe that mealtimes are more than just a chance to eat—they are essential moments for connection, development, and nourishment. Every part of our snack and lunch experience is designed to support children in building independence, cultivating curiosity around food, and developing lifelong habits of care for self and community.

We serve homemade, hand-prepared meals on site, using whole ingredients and partnering with local farms and producers whenever possible. Our commitment to sustainability and nourishment extends from the food itself to the experience of eating it.

Meals and snacks are served family-style, giving children the opportunity to:

• Serve themselves from shared bowls at the center of the table
• Pour their own water
• Choose what and how much they would like to eat
• Engage with peers and teachers in a relaxed, social setting
   

Each meal is an opportunity to practice responsibility and develop fine motor skills. From setting the table and using real ceramic plates and glass cups, to cleaning up after themselves, children actively participate in all aspects of mealtime. They are invited—but never pressured—to try new foods, and are supported in exploring unfamiliar items using all five senses.

We believe in offering structure with flexibility:

• Meals begin with a full cup of water, followed by fresh vegetables or salad.
• More popular foods, like pasta or pizza, are served last, encouraging balanced choices.
• Children are gently reminded: “Can you try your cucumbers before getting more rice?” or “Try it, you might like it.”
   

Teachers join children at the table—not only to supervise but to engage and model healthy mealtime behavior. They eat alongside the children, participate in conversation, and help facilitate a calm, joyful dining atmosphere. Meals are free from distractions, encouraging children to slow down, tune in, and enjoy the moment.

Children remain at the table for a full 20–30 minutes, after which they:

• Clear their own plates 
• Scrape leftovers into our chicken bucket 
• Stack dishes
• Wipe their faces and hands
   

This routine not only supports independence but also strengthens their understanding of communal living and responsibility.