February: Ag, Food and Environmental Connections

As the shortest month of the year, February still packs a punch with opportunities to teach kids about agriculture, food, and the environment. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or 4-H leader, these national observances provide the perfect chance to engage kids with fun and educational activities. Here are February's national themes, weeks, and days to celebrate, along with activities and learning ideas to bring them to life in the classroom or at home.

National Month Themes

Black History Month

• February is Black History Month, an important time to recognize the contributions of Black individuals in all industries, including agriculture.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Research notable Black farmers and agricultural scientists, such as George Washington Carver.

  • Create a timeline of historical advancements made by Black individuals in agriculture.

  • Explore the role of agriculture in the Civil Rights Movement.

International Hoof Care Month

• This month raises awareness about the importance of hoof care for livestock and equines.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Study the anatomy of hooves and how proper care affects livestock health.

  • Invite a farrier or hoof trimmer to speak about their work.

  • Watch videos on hoof trimming and discuss its importance for farm animals.

National Sweet Potato Month

• Sweet potatoes are celebrated for their versatility and agricultural importance.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Explore how sweet potatoes grow and compare them to other root vegetables.

  • Cook sweet potato recipes and discuss their nutritional benefits.

  • Study the history of sweet potatoes and their cultural significance around the world.

National Cherry Month

• This month celebrates cherries and their impact on agriculture and food.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Learn about the different types of cherries and where they are grown.

  • Create a cherry recipe, such as pie or preserves, and discuss their economic value.

  • Explore the cherry blossom’s cultural significance in Japan and Washington, D.C.

National Days

World Wetlands Day (February 2)

• World Wetlands Day highlights the essential role wetlands play in maintaining ecosystems and biodiversity.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Research local wetlands and discuss their importance in the ecosystem.

  • Organize a virtual or in-person field trip to a nearby wetland area.

  • Create a poster project highlighting different types of wetlands and the species they support.

National Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day (February 3)

• This fun day encourages creativity in the kitchen and can be tied to agricultural lessons about dairy.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Explore the journey of milk from farm to ice cream.

  • Make homemade ice cream and discuss the ingredients involved.

  • Learn about the dairy industry and its economic impact.

World Pulses Day (February 10)

• World Pulses Day celebrates legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas, focusing on their nutritional value and role in agriculture.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Cook a meal featuring various pulses and discuss their health benefits.

  • Explore the nitrogen-fixing properties of legumes and their importance in crop rotation.

  • Start a small garden to grow different types of pulses.

Valentine’s Day (February 14)

• Valentine’s Day is a perfect opportunity to connect agriculture with themes of love and kindness.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Discuss how flowers are grown and the role of greenhouses in agriculture.

  • Explore chocolate production, from cacao farming to the final product.

  • Create a farm-themed Valentine’s card using agricultural puns or animal images.

National Almond Day (February 16)

• National Almond Day emphasizes the agricultural and nutritional significance of almonds.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Investigate the process of almond cultivation and the climates suitable for their growth.

  • Discuss the nutritional value of almonds and incorporate them into a healthy recipe.

  • Learn about environmental considerations in almond farming, such as water usage.

National Cabbage Day (February 17)

• National Cabbage Day celebrates this versatile vegetable and its role in various cuisines.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Explore different varieties of cabbage and their growing conditions.

  • Prepare a traditional dish featuring cabbage, like sauerkraut or coleslaw.

  • Discuss the nutritional benefits of cabbage and its importance in a balanced diet.

National Flannel Day (February 17)

• Celebrate this cozy fabric often associated with rural and agricultural communities.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Research the history of flannel and its ties to farming and outdoor work.

  • Create a flannel craft project, such as patchwork or no-sew scarves.

  • Discuss how clothing and textiles are connected to agriculture, like wool and cotton production.

National Strawberry Day (February 27)

• National Strawberry Day honors this beloved fruit and its significance in agriculture.

• Activities and Learning Ideas:

  • Learn about the lifecycle of strawberry plants and their cultivation methods.

  • Visit a local strawberry farm or watch a virtual tour to see how strawberries are grown and harvested.

  • Create a strawberry-themed recipe together, emphasizing the fruit's nutritional value.

Wrapping Up

February's agriculture-themed observances provide engaging ways to connect kids with farming, food, and the environment. By participating in these activities, educators and parents can inspire curiosity about where food comes from and the critical role of agriculture in daily life. Which observance will you celebrate first?

Let us know how you incorporate these themes into your lessons or home activities—we’d love to hear your stories!