Inclusive Eats: An Autism-Friendly Healthy Food Workshop

Inclusive Eats: An Autism-Friendly Healthy Food Workshop

Join us for a fun and educational community event focused on healthy eating and Autism awareness! Hosted by Shekira Farrell and her son, Jaiden, founders of Jai At Play, [the City of Asbury Park Mayor’s Wellness Committee, Interfaith Neighbors and Kula Farm, and Hackensack Meridian Health, add the names you want to include here] this event is open to all children and their families, with a special invitation to those in the Autism Community.

Event Highlights:

• Healthy Eating Workshop: Learn about some healthy food choices and the importance of nutrition from a local vegan chef who will lead the recipe demonstration and share his expertise on healthy eating. A dietician from Hackensack Meridian will be there to answer all your questions about eating more local produce, and other plant-powered foods such as whole grains, beans, etc.
• Interactive Recipe Demonstration: Participate in a fun and simple recipe demonstration that you can easily replicate at home.
• Sensory Experience: Explore different food textures and learn about food sensitivities and how they relate to the Autism experience for autistic youth.
• Activity and Coloring Pages: Enjoy additional educational activities featuring an activity page and coloring page from Jai At Play’s "Autism Through The Alphabet" Workshop Program for Letter G, which stands for Gastrointestinal Issues (GI tract).
• Community Building: Enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can come together to learn, eat, and connect.

About Jai At Play:

Jai At Play is dedicated to changing how society views, understands, and interacts with autistic youth and creatively transforming Autism education and awareness. Since my son, Jaiden, was diagnosed with Autism in 2014, I have been committed to developing innovative products, resources, and programs that foster awareness, understanding, empathy, kindness, and representation while creating kinder, more inclusive, and more supportive spaces for all children to learn, grow, and thrive.

About The Asbury Park Mayor's Wellness Committee (MWC). A volunteer, citizen-led movement,the MWC provides community initiatives to champion healthy and active living and improve overall health within the community. The Blue Bishops Living Well Initiative is this year’s focus for Asbury Park! We are growing awareness and understanding of how to live healthier and have fun while doing it, including eating fresh foods, moving naturally, and finding your tribe.

Interfaith Neighbor’s Kula Farm is a social enterprise that provides on-site job training, educational programs, farm to table dinners and free fresh produce to neighbors in need. They also transform vacant lots into community gardens and manage a hydroponic greenhouse. Produce is sold to the public as well as to local restaurants.:

Why Attend?

• Gain valuable insights into healthy eating and food choices
• Participate in hands-on activities that promote sensory awareness and acceptance
• Connect with other families in the community and join a safe space for kids to socialize
• Learn how to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine in a fun and engaging way

Don't miss this unique opportunity to learn, have fun, and support Autism awareness in our community. Through this initiative, we will provide hands-on experiences teaching participants about different food textures, healthy food choices, and trying different foods. They will learn that gastrointestinal issues refer to any condition that occurs in the stomach, that trying new and healthy foods can lead to a healthier and happier stomach, and that we should respect and understand others on their food journeys, especially if they are on the Autism spectrum.

Reserve your spot today and be part of an event that celebrates inclusion, healthy eating, and the diverse experiences of the community!

Host or Publisher Karyn Moskowitz