Summer is a great time to cook with kids since there is so much they can do—from shopping at the farmers' market to making no-cook dishes.

As the saying goes, it's summertime and the living is easy. And with fruits and veggies at their freshest, it’s prime time for getting the kids into their food. Here’s how to shop—and cook—with your kids this summer.

Tips for Shopping Farmers' Markets with Kids

Taking kids to the farmers' market is tremendous fun for all. Here’s how to make it a successful trip.

1. Let the kids help pick! When kids are involved in the decision-making for your produce, they are more likely to want to cook and eat it. Give them a budget and let them choose some fruits and veggies to take home.
   
   
   
   
2. Encourage them to ask questions. Most farmers are more than happy to talk about their produce. Encourage your kids to ask questions and learn more about what they see.
   
   
3. Talk about it. Shopping should never be a silent activity. Talk to your kids about what you are buying, how to tell if it’s fresh and what you could do with it.
   
   
4. Visit the farms. Farmers' markets aren’t the only places to get fresh produce. Farms, including pick-your-own ones, are great to visit. Kids can see where food comes from and possibly even try their hand at picking such fruits as strawberries, blueberries and peaches. Check out LocalHarvest.com to find pick-your-own farms near you.

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