Students will dive into learning about our local seasonal foods and the growers behind them in the Bay Area, where much of our country's food is shipped from. Chefs will explore various aspects of food systems such as the activities, infrastructure, and environments involved in food production and processing for market retail. Additionally, students will learn about the distribution to local grocery stores and the importance of appropriate waste disposal, as well as how to read labels when trying to make good choices. Our classes will also cover efforts and organizations aimed at avoiding unnecessary food waste, including initiatives focused within our local Menlo Park / RWC / Palo Alto communities.

Nourish & Flourish is pleased to offer a diverse range of engaging programs designed to inspire and educate children and youth about healthy eating, sustainable food systems, and overall well-being:

  • Nutritional Lunch & Learn Program: This program caters to both experienced and aspiring young chefs, fostering a comprehensive understanding of nutrition through interactive learning and meal preparation.

  • "Supperclub Jr." Day Camps: Participants can immerse themselves in a day of culinary exploration, embracing healthy foods and developing a deeper appreciation for nutritious choices.

  • Farm Immersion Experiences: Connecting with the origins of food, children will enjoy a day at the farm, including exciting activities like tractor rides and learning about the natural world, including fascinating "squirmy bugs". These experiences highlight the importance of sustainable food systems and the connection between fresh food and a healthy lifestyle.

  • Inspiring Educational Programs: Nourish & Flourish delivers programs tailored to students of all ages, emphasizing the importance of sustainable food systems and the link between healthy foods and a healthy body, mind, and emotional well-being.

Nourish & Flourish is grateful for the opportunity to positively impact the lives of children and youth by providing these enriching experiences that promote healthy habits and a deeper understanding of food.

For scheduling and registration please email: NourishFlourish650@gmail.com or check the events tab

Summer/Day programs in Menlo Park

Day Camp offers the following :

- Light gardening to take home to transfer to yard or pot

- Safety and training on kitchen processes and tools 

- Introduction to new and global foods / recipes 

- Park trash pick-up, light physical activities / games/ community service

- Quick trips to Whole Foods for training in reading labels and identifying healthy, nourishing foods

- Two daily recipes to prep, cook, and share together as a group

  • Nourish & Flourish prioritizes using organic ingredients whenever possible, focusing on fresh, pure components. The programs emphasize growing and harvesting food on-site when feasible, fostering a direct connection to food sources and sustainable practices. This approach ensures the freshest ingredients while educating young participants about the benefits of organic farming and the journey of food from garden to table.

    Farm & Field Day Camp:

    These are scheduled private events that educate students about where their food comes from, the challenges of growing organic produce, and the importance of supporting local agriculture.

    • Focus on Sustainability:
      These events usually highlight the company's commitment to organic farming, responsible land management, and environmentally conscious practices. 

    • Educational Aspect:
      Visitors can learn about different types of vegetables, how they are grown, the harvest process, and the importance of supporting local farmers. 

    • Direct Interaction with Farmers:
      Field days often include opportunities to meet and interact with the farmers who grow the produce distributed by local markets. 

    • Community Engagement:
      These events are a way for students to connect with their local growers, build relationships with the community, and promote awareness about the food system.

  • Inquiries for private events, catering, 1:1 trainings & more can be sent to : NourishFlourish650@gmail.com

*All ingredients are sourced locally and organic whenever possible

Check back regularly for newly added classes!

Cooking and Kitchen Basics

Nourish & Flourish welcomes all beginner chefs to a supportive kitchen environment. Our programs teach basic culinary techniques, food preparation, and nutrition. In each class, students will prepare a healthy meal, receive the recipe to share, and gain knowledge about local, sustainable food choices. Adult classes are coming soon!

An Intro to Food Systems

It's easy to overlook the complex processes behind the fruits and vegetables found in grocery stores. All students at Nourish & Flourish will examine the various food systems in the Bay Area that provide a wide variety of food. Students will learn how communities can create sustainable programs offering healthy food to all. Beginner and advanced classes will use a kitchen and a neighborhood urban garden to source ingredients whenever possible.

Sample Recipes for Advanced Chefs

For Advanced chefs who have already surpassed kitchen basics, we offer advanced recipes and outings that educate youth about how to make healthy choices at the store, and how to create healthy balanced meals at home. Once we return from the store, students will assemble something from the following recipes to prepare as a team:

  • Chicken Parmesan Pasta: A baked chicken breast and simple tomato sauce with whole wheat pasta.

  • Banana Sushi: made with bananas, peanut butter, and various toppings like shredded coconut, pistachios, or chia seeds. 

  • Sholeh Zard: Saffron base rice pudding with cinnamon

  • Fresh pressed Spinach and Pineapple juice