Facilitated by: Andrew Fleet (He/Him) Executive Director, Growing Chefs! Ontario This session explores how the language we use around food and our own attitudes can influence children’s willingness to try new foods. Participants will learn practical strategies for creating positive food experiences, understand the broader role of food in children’s development, and gain insights from a chef’s and food educator’s perspective. By the end of the session, educators will leave with actionable tools to foster curiosity, confidence, and enjoyment around food in their programs. Andrew Fleet is an avid local food enthusiast. He is the co-founder and executive director of Growing Chefs! Ontario, a London-based charity with a mission to change the way people learn about and develop healthy relationships with food. Over the past 15 years, Growing Chefs! Ontario has been creating and providing impactful hands-on cooking and food literacy programming for children and families, which have been offered in partnership with over 100 schools and dozens of community organizations across southwest Ontario, reaching more than 10,000 children and youth annually. Pedagogical Focuses: Belonging - Engagement - Expression - Well-being Standards of Practice: Standard III:  Safety, Health and Well-Being in the Learning Environment Registration closes: Monday, July 20 at 12:00 PM *Ticket types are based on the county you WORK in. While we welcome participation from outside of the Early Years sector, please note these learning opportunities are intended for early years professionals and the early years lens will be emphasized.