Rural watchdog urges kids to learn more about food

A new initiative to encourage learning through food has been praised by rural watchdog, the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

Food will be the theme for activities taking place in Leicestershire for the Family Learning Festival from October 17th - 31st across the county’s libraries.

Activities will include: Food Trails, a World Café Quiz, and Story Feast Bingo. People will also have the chance to win a Wii Fit by working together to create a family recipe.

According to the CLA, which has bureau in the South Leicestershire town of Market Harborough, it is vital that children get first-hand knowledge of where the food on their plate actually comes from.

CLA spokesman, Tim Barnes-Clay, said: "Over the last three years the CLA has been hugely successful in promoting its Just Ask Campaign, where people are encouraged to ask where the food they buy comes from. It is crucial that children of all backgrounds recognise the importance of local food so they can tell their parents about it."

The Festival is supported nationally by the Campaign for Learning and provides opportunities for families to learn together in an informal setting.

Families can explore new skills, develop new interests and expand their knowledge in ways that may whet their appetite for further learning in the future.

Ask at your local library or check www.leics.gov.uk/flf to find out more about events and the competition.