Camps eat local Continued from Page 49
foods is the key to making them less picky, Barratt said. Hans Stader, of Asheville, said he signed his son up for the program for the last two summers because he “needed some more exposure to different foods.” “We’re still waiting for him to grow up,” Stader said. “He’s a very picky eater.” Stader said Terra Summer introduced his son to new foods and ideas and planted seeds in his mind that he hopes will flourish over time. “There’s a stereotype of kid-friendly having to be what looks familiar to kids,
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W N C PA R E N T | A U G U S T 2 011
■ 52 percent: WNC camps that used local food products in the 2005 camp season, according to an N.C. State University study. ■ 75 percent: WNC camps that used local food products in the 2009 camp season. ■ 64 percent: Camp directors that said they promote energy conservation. ■ 19,435: Acres controlled by the 40 camps that responded to the study. ■ 18: Average number of days children spent at those camps.
WHAT PARENTS CAN DO
■ Do your homework. Many camps have sample menus or cafeteria information on their websites. Research the food your kids will eat and don’t hesitate to ask questions about where food products will come from. ■ Let your child’s camp know about allergies or other dietary issues. Camps are always willing and used to working with children who have dietary restrictions, but it’s the parents’ responsibility to let them know. ■ Fill the kids in. If kids interact with the growing process, they’re more likely to choose healthy foods. Talk to kids about where food comes from and what good choices are from an early age. ■ Give feedback. If healthy, local foods are important to you in choosing a camp for your children, tell the folks who will be feeding them. Camps want to make parents happy and hear what you have to say.