A Day of Discovery: Third Graders Explore Area 2 Farms
This week, third-grade students from Discovery Elementary, a school right here in Arlington, Virginia, participated in an immersive educational tour at Area 2 Farms. The visit offered a hands-on introduction to local agriculture, food systems, and innovative farming technology. From storytelling to soil science, the tour was designed to connect children with where their food comes from and inspire curiosity about the natural world.
Cultivating Imagination: Story Time with Farmer Sam
The day began with a story led by Farmer Sam. Students gathered for a reading of Tree Lady: The Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever, which tells the true story of a woman who transformed urban spaces through her love of nature.
The book sparked lively conversation, with several students excitedly sharing that they had planted trees themselves—some during school activities, others with their families. This personal connection added depth to the lesson, reinforcing ideas about perseverance, environmental impact, and the role each person can play in shaping a greener world.
Farmer Sam asked students to think about how they can make a positive change in their community while reading Tree Lady: The Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever.
Farming of the Future: The SILO Experience with Head of Farm Tyler
Next, students got to explore Area 2 Farms' tall growing system. Head of Farm Tyler showed them how plants grow on shelves, and the students were excited to point out different kinds of leafy greens and herbs. They even got to taste some of the fresh produce right off the system! This tasting led to a fun discussion about why some plants are sweet, others are sour, and some even have a little bit of a spicy kick—which, for some plants, can actually be a way to ward off hungry bugs!
Students who want to “try something weird” raise their hands.
Tyler hands out gem marigolds, a small, citrusy edible flower.
The Wonderful World Beneath Our Feet: Digging Deep with Soil Scientist Tex
Soil Scientist Tex guided students through a hands-on exploration of compost, soil, and worms. Using real samples, Tex explained how healthy soil is essential for growing nutritious food and how worms contribute by breaking down organic matter into rich compost. The interactive session sparked enthusiasm among the students, especially when observing live worms up close.
One particular group became absolutely captivated by the worm farm, deciding collectively to name every single worm 'Gerald.' Their delight in watching 'Gerald' and his many siblings wriggle through the soil added an extra layer of giggles and wonder to an already fascinating exploration of the underground world.
Students get their hands dirty with soil scientist Tex.
From Little Seed to Big Harvest: The Journey with Farmers Conor & Nickle
Farmers Conor and Nickle led a visual demonstration of the plant life cycle, showing how seeds develop into seedlings and eventually become full-grown plants. Students followed the journey from planting to harvest and learned how this cycle produces the vegetables our community gets every week.
A highlight of the session came when the group learned that being a farmer can be a full-time job. Many were surprised—several even asked, “Wait, you can be a farmer for work?” By the end of the activity, about half of the students eagerly raised their hands when asked if they wanted to be future farmers themselves. The moment captured just how powerful hands-on learning can be in expanding kids' ideas about careers and food.
Farmer Conor demonstrates to the group how plants go from seed to harvest.
A Taste Adventure: Chef Molly's Unique Samplings
The tour concluded with a tasting session led by Chef Molly, who introduced the students to unique crops grown at the farm. Items included purple shamrocks, microgreens, and buzz buttons—a plant that causes a tingling sensation when eaten. Students showed both bravery and curiosity as they sampled unfamiliar flavors, learning how trying new foods can be both fun and educational. Most students even went back for seconds - they loved the purple shamrocks the best!
Student taste purple shamrocks for the first time - they’re more sour than you’d expect!
Key Takeaways: Lessons from the Farm
Throughout the visit, students gained a deeper understanding of:
Food Origins: Learning how food is grown, harvested, and brought to the community.
Agricultural Innovation: Discovering that farming can involve advanced technology alongside traditional methods.
Environmental Stewardship: Recognizing the importance of soil health and sustainable practices.
Curiosity and Exploration: Encouraging openness to new experiences, including tasting new foods.
Until Next Time
Special thanks to the teachers, chaperones, and third-grade students from Discovery Elementary for their participation. Experiences like these help build lasting connections between young learners and the food systems that nourish their communities.
Say “Farmers!”: A happy send off at the end of the tour.
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Area 2 Farms for Locals
Your food should be equally accessible and nutritious. Which is where we come in. We’re Area 2 Farms, we grow organic produce, deliver it to your door weekly, and operate all within 10 miles of you.
