In an innovative educational initiative at the Oceanside Public Library, Barbara Gates, affectionately known as "Queen Bean," has embarked on a mission to introduce students to the diverse world of beans. Each month, she leads the Cool Beans Club, where participants explore a different type of bean from around the globe. This program not only highlights the nutritional value and environmental benefits of beans but also delves into cultural practices surrounding their preparation. Attendees engage in hands-on activities, such as cooking with various beans, learning about multicultural traditions, and understanding the significance of sustainable eating. The curriculum aligns with seasonal holidays, offering a comprehensive approach to education that combines health, culture, and sustainability.
Gates' passion for beans stems from their versatility and affordability. She emphasizes how these legumes offer an economical source of protein and can be stored for extended periods. Her nine-lesson course covers a wide array of beans, each session featuring a unique variety. For instance, during a recent class, children and caregivers explored soybeans in conjunction with Lunar New Year festivities. They sampled edamame and prepared lettuce wraps using tofu, snap peas, mandarin oranges, and teriyaki sauce. Olive Lyons, a young participant, expressed excitement about the dishes they were about to taste. Raymond Lyons, Olive's grandfather, highlighted the importance of instilling healthy eating habits early on. He praised the program for teaching respect for different cultures and the environment.
The inspiration behind Gates' initiative dates back 25 years when her children were in elementary school. Recognizing a gap in nutrition education that heavily focused on dairy and meat, she sought to introduce plant-based alternatives. Growing up on classic American fare like burgers and hot dogs, Gates found lentils unfamiliar and took time to embrace them. This personal journey fueled her desire to educate others about the myriad benefits of beans. Lisa Ferneau-Haynes, the senior librarian for youth services at the Oceanside Public Library, saw the potential in Gates' curriculum. It perfectly complemented the library's efforts to distribute food boxes containing beans during summer months. Families often received items they were unfamiliar with, making this program invaluable for teaching practical culinary skills using common pantry staples.
Looking ahead, the Cool Beans Club will delve into lentils and celebrate the Hindu festival Holi next month. Teachers interested in incorporating these lessons into their classrooms can access the curriculum online free of charge. Additionally, Gates' organization, Healthy Kids Happy Planet, provides grants to cover food expenses for related activities. This initiative continues to bridge gaps in nutrition education while fostering global awareness and appreciation for diverse culinary traditions among young learners.