A renowned children’s author has written a series of books about where food comes from in a bid to improve understanding of food.
Endorsed by the Royal Association of British Dairy Farmers, Milly Cow Gives Milk is the first book in the four-part ’Follow my Food’ series by author Deborah Chancellor and illustrator Julia Groves.
It is aimed at pre-school and key stage one-aged children and follows a day in the life of Milly the cow.
Ms Chancellor, who has written more than 100 books for children, said: “I have always been keen on food and I like to know where it comes from.
"A lot of young children do not know where their food comes from, they might not even realise apples grow on trees.
“It is important they understand that connection between food and the environment and educating them at a young age is important.”
She added the timing was good with lockdown as more children were outside walking in the countryside.
“If we can help children see the preciousness of food and understand the process and what is involved in producing it, they may not waste it,” Ms Chancellor said.
A factual section about how milk is nutritious and its uses is also included in the book.
RABDF managing director, Matt Knight, said: “Milly Cow Gives Milk is a simple yet informative book and is targeting the right age group.
"If we can connect children with the food they consume at this age then it will help their understanding and appreciation for farming and the environment as they get older.
“Educating primary school children about food is something we had planned to do pre-Covid-19 and is something we aim to pick up when restrictions lift.
"This book is a great starting pointing to help children understand the journey from farm to fork.”
The hardback picture book will be available in bookshops when they reopen on April 12 and online from April 1 for £10.99.
Polly Bee Makes Honey, the next book in the series, will be released later this year.