What can we learn from watching a chick hatch? Part 1

Where does my food come from? 

Deb Howe – Chief Chicken Herder

10th January 2020

There has been much debate circling the issues of climate change and the role played by our diet. Strong and passionate arguments have circulated in the media. With many of us observing the staggering level of imbalance in the media, misinformation, poor “science” (deliberate use of the “”) and dare I say it, scaremongering. Not about the facts of climate change as a phenomenon – there is zero debate IMHO that it’s THE issue we have to face this decade. NOW. But about the role of meat in our diet, and farming in general, in causing and potentially alleviating these global symptoms….

There have been TV shows that have caused uproar in the farming communities in the UK who feel battered by the media – and worry that the general public with be blinded by the media slants. How can our hatching projects help??

Children at Emmaus Sheffield enjoying their rare breed chicks!

Photograph by Emmaus School

I have been saying for some time (see my Blog in 2017) that children need a far better understanding of where their food comes from. They need to value it, the importance  of cooking and mealtimes together, and food waste. That this will alleviate SOOOO many issues we have in society and globally.  For a child (and adult) to witness the miracle of a chick breaking free from an egg is an incredible ‘hook’ and catalyst to fantastic questioning about all aspects of the egg, chick, hens and farming. After having learned about where the egg comes from, the role of the egg in nature, and watching that chick grow,  whilst caring for it, that child has a closer affinity with nature….Food production. Farming. Animal welfare. Engagement with science. Nature.  A thirst to find out more. They might feel affection for something that they have previously considered just came in a box from the supermarket. All these things add up to helping a generation that can make more informed food choices.

“….children need a far better understanding of where their food comes from….”

So knowledge about ethical and sustainable farming is high on my list of things we need to engage the next generation with. And obviously we believe that EGGucation can and does give settings the ability to present this information in a super meaningful and engaging way. We are proud of our ability to deliver our hatching programs in an ethical and responsible way, as discussed in a previous blog. Look out for my next blogs on the other fabulous educational advantages to hatching in your classroom, and the questions you should be asking of your provider when you book!

Where does my food come from? was last modified: January 10th, 2020 by