Some of us are too busy to cook, let alone think about tending a garden. Both of these activities can be time consuming, I admit. So, what if we build them into family time? It's a win-win situation all around. Don't you think?
Some of the most meaningful discussions and hands-on projects can be inspired by reading children's books together, so here are a few which could help you turn dreaded meal planning and preparation time into fun sharing and helping time:
The ABCs of Fruits and Vegetables and Beyond
, by Steve Charney & David Goldbeck, is really two books in one. While younger children will enjoy the alphabet poems, which highlight select fruits and vegetables, older children can dig more deeply into the subject, in the second half. The authors make it fun to learn about food by weaving together some history, fun facts, recipes, related children's book recommendations, web sites, jokes, and projects. So, this book could be a springboard to some great hands-on activities and 
even library visits!
Grow It, Cook It
, by DK Publishing, is a beautifully designed photographic book which shows you how to bring food straight from your garden to your table, one step at a time. It's perfect for families who are just starting out on their gardening journey, and who may not want to commit to maintaining a full garden. With just a few simple containers, flower pots, seeds, and supplies, your family will have loads of fun bringing food to life together.
My Backyard Garden
, by Carol Lerner, is a great resource for older children who are ready to plant a garden in the ground. The author takes you from the initial planning stages to harvest, month by month, and provides details about common problems you may encounter. If you and your child have a serious interest in gardening, you won't want to miss out on this one. 
I hope you enjoy these children's books! Let's be realistic, though: we can't all be gardeners and some of us will never enjoy cooking. We all do have to eat, though. So, even if you don't enjoy reading with your children, you can always take them food shopping with you! Many literacy and math learning opportunities are just waiting for you there. Another topic for another day...
Please feel free to share any other children's books, or even web sites, which come to mind.
You can find related resources within the following prior posts:
And the next post in the series is called, Are You Giving Your Toddler a Recipe for a Wonderful Life?
