WESTPORT–The popular “Get Growing” program for kids at the Westport Farmers’ Market is living up to its name.

The children’s area has been upgraded with new, sturdy tables and chairs, plus “a welcoming space for creativity and learning,” the organizers said. And new activities are filling the schedule from local businesses and organizations, including Create Grow Flow reiki and sound healing, Earthplace activities and programming from the Apple Blossom and Housatonic Valley Waldorf school.

“I still remember my first few markets on a blanket,” said Mae Farrell, who began running the Get Growing program seven years ago. “It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come, and to be able to fund and upgrade to a better setup this year is just amazing.”

She thanked the Drew Friedman Foundation for a donation and “ongoing support” that make the program and its upgrades possible.

“Get Growing aims to engage the children who come to the market, bring new families and children into the WFM community and educate the next generation on the value of shopping local through weekly art projects and activities,” according to the market’s website.

The weekly craft sessions are intended to help children understand the importance of supporting small, sustainable farms, while offering them a space to explore and express their creativity.

The market is open Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., May 8 to Nov. 13.

“The best part is seeing families return week after week and knowing we are engaging the next generations of market supporters at a young age,” said Lori Cochran-Dougall, executive director of the market. “We have watched so many children grow up at the Get Growing table. Some of the moms we met here years ago with their first babies are now bringing their older children. It’s such a wonderful feeling to witness these families grow and to see the same smiling faces week after week.”

For more information about the Get Growing Program, or to learn about hosting a week of activities, please visit www.westportfarmersmarket.com.

Westport Farmers’ Market

Thursdays 10am – 2pm
50 Imperial Avenue, Westport
Through November 13