Step One

Teaching Gardens

• Gives schools and groups funding and supplies to grow fruits and veggies
• Teaches how food grows and why healthy eating matters 
• Teaches teamwork, responsibility, and trying new foods

 

Each year, Step ONE invites organizations to apply for grant funding to launch or expand their teaching garden. These grants provide resources, tools, and guidance to ensure long-term success. Grantees receive funding for garden-related expenses, as well as support in implementing best practices and meeting reporting requirements.

Applications open in August 2025, if you are interested in starting a teaching garden at your facility, please see contact information below. 

 

 

 

 

Little Sprouts Programs (Ages 3-6)

  

Honey Bees (Ages 3-6) 

• Fun, hands-on activity that gets kids excited to eat fresh food
• Learn how bees help grow fruits and veggies 
• Learn Honey Bee safety with an interactive puppet 

 

Gardening (Ages 3-6)

• Fun, hands-on activity that gets kids excited to grow fruits and veggies 
• Learn the parts of a plant and what plants need to grow
• Explore bugs and insects that live in the garden 

  

Pollination Program (2nd - 3rd Grade)

• Learn how bees, butterflies, and birds help plants make food
• Learn how nature and food are connected 
• Aligned with NGSS science standards, covering plants parts, ecosystems, and how living things work together 

 

Programs for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (ID/DD)

 

 

Special Sprouts (For children and adults with ID/DD)

• Use pictures, props, and storytelling to make learning fun and accessible
• Teaches how bees help grow fruits and veggies in a sensory-friendly way 
• Builds confidence and helps everyone enjoy nature and healthy eating 

  

HealthMatters™ (For teens and adults with ID/DD)

• Teaches healthy habits, like eating well and staying active
• Lessons are fun, simple, and easy to follow 
• Helps people feel more confident about taking care of their health