Engaging children in food systems literacy research: an analysis of children's drawings from the Little Food Festival

Purpose This study aims to explore the level of food system literacy amongst children and families attending a food sustainability festival and examine children's perspectives regarding which actions they consider feasible and within their sphere of influence to improve our future food system. Design/methodology/approach Conducted at the Little Food Festival in Australia, this study involved qualitative, child-friendly methods. Data were collected from children aged 5–12 through arrival and departure surveys, including pictorial responses to the prompt: “What is one action you will take to improve our food system?” Reflexive thematic analysis was used to interpret the children's drawings. Findings Survey results revealed limited food systems literacy on arrival (n = 293), with most children identifying “supermarkets” as the main food source. Children's drawings after participation in festival activities reflected a broader systemic awareness (n = 83), whereby five themes of actions to improve the food system were identified: “gardening”, “food consumption”, “waste management”, “behaviour change and advocacy” and “respect and understanding of the natural ecosystem”. Waste management was the most frequently depicted action, likely reflecting existing school and government initiatives. Findings highlight the need for adults to create supportive environments for children's intentions to translate into action. Originality/value This study offers a novel contribution by investigating food festivals as accessible sites for developing children's food systems literacy. Utilising an innovative evaluation method, the analysis of children's drawings, this research provides valuable insights into children's perspectives on their role in food system transformation and broader implications for policy and educational practices.