Activities for Pre-K

Explore lessons and fun activities for students Pre-K that bring the growing process to life in the classroom and at home.

Here you’ll find lessons, activities, videos, and other resources related to gardening, for students in Pre-K. No matter if you are a teacher, parent, kid, or kid at heart, all are hands-on, experiential, and fun! We worked closely with Louisiana educators to identify only the best lessons for teachers and link them to Louisiana State Curriculum Standards.

Beef:

Beef:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Beef Council: Meet the Calf Color By Number

Students can color numbered sections to find the Hereford beef cow and her hiding calf in pasture.

Beef:

Books

Beef Stew  by Catherine Siracusa (1990)

Nicky's mom is making so much stew that he is allowed to bring a friend home for supper. But his best friend Alec can't come, and Carla won't come--she hates beef stew. So Nicky begins a funny, frantic quest for someone to share his favorite dish

Cows!: A My Incredible World Picture Book for Children by My Incredible World and Hope Aicher (2018)

You and your children will have a moo-velous time as you explore the incredible world of COWS! From dairy cows to bulls, and hairy cows to big-horned cows, you'll discover a treasure trove of amazing facts about these farm favorites and be amazed at how beautiful and unique they can be

Cows on the Farm by Marie Schuh (2006)

This book uses simple text and photographs to present cows and how they are raised.

Beets & Carrots:

Lessons and Activities

Georgia Organics: Eat a Rainbow Lesson Set

Through these seven short lessons, students will celebrate the diversity of colors found in food while learning about why "eating a rainbow" is a healthy choice for our bodies.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 3.2.3 AL 3.2.4		CM 3.1.3 CM 3.1.4		CSS 2.1.3 CSS 2.1.4		PD 1.1.3 PD 1.1.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Iowa Farm to School & Early Care: Root Crops

Lead students through an exciting review of the four major parts of plants and brainstorm examples of each part we might find on our dinner plates with this food system lesson.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Carrots

The Louisiana Farm to ECE Activities Guide was created by the New Orleans Food Policy Action Council as a tool to assist early care educators in facilitating seasonally appropriate and culturally relevant exploration of fruits and vegetable for children, specifically our youngest learners between the ages 0-5 yr old. Included in this carrots module:

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4						PD 2.1.3 PD. 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Seeds to Success: Cutting Carrots

This Montessori-style lesson allows children the chance to explore preparing, cutting, and serving carrots.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4			CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4

Green Mountain Farm to School: Carrots

In this lesson students will develop an understanding of carrot anatomy and variety. Students can then prepare a dish using carrots or develop an artistic representation of the carrot anatomy that they have learned. (p. 27-29) Carrot Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4			CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Carrots from Top to Bottom

In this sensory exploration lesson, children will use their sense of touch, taste, smell, and sight to compare the “tops” and “bottoms” of different carrot varieties. Carrot Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4		CM 1.1.3 CM 1.1.4 CM 1.5.3 CM 1.5.4 CM 3.2.3 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.3.4 CM 3.4.4 CM 3.5.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4 CS 1.2.3 CS 1.2.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Rainbow Crunch Salad

By creating a rainbow crunch salad, students will learn various ways that beets and carrots can be eaten. This lesson provides an opportunity for students to practice motor skills and coordination by preparing and combining ingredients to create a tasty treat.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 2.2.3 AL 2.2.4		CM 3.4.4 CM 3.5.4				PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Colorful Beets, Inside and Out

In this sensory exploration lesson, children will use their senses and scientific inquiry skills to predict, observe, describe and compare beets. Beet Images

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 2.2.3 AL 2.2.4		CM 2.1.3 CM 2.1.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Beets & Carrots:

Books

Oh, Carrots! by Mariajo Ilustrajo (2025)

Mr Rabbit lives alone, and do you know what? He likes it! He enjoys peaceful moments spent reading, drinking cups of tea, and gardening – but sometimes it can get a little too quiet . . . Luckily, Spring has arrived, and that means Mr Rabbit can plant his favourite vegetable – carrots! With some love, sunshine, and a little bit of singing, the carrots begin to grow. But one day, Mr Rabbit spots something unusual – a wiggling carrot top! He pulls and pulls, and out pops a walking, talking carrot.

Curious George The Perfect Carrot by H.A. Rey (2010)

With the help of the man with the yellow hat, Curious George plants and grows carrots in a little garden plot of his own. When his carrots are finally ready to be pulled from the ground, George decides that his prize carrot is too perfect to eat. But when George stumbles upon his friend Bill's pet bunnies lost and hungry, he doesn't hesitate to share his carrot to help save the day.

Bunny Built by Michael Slack (2018)

LaRue was very handy. His toolbox had everything and industrious bunny could ever need. Everything, that is, except carrots. But then LaRue stumbles onto a special seed. With proper tending, this seed quickly grows into an ENORMOUS CARROT! What's a bunny to do with so much carrot? In a stroke of construction genius (and generosity), LaRue has the answer. This clever story celebrates just what it means to be a friend.

Carrots Grow Underground by Mari Schuh (2010)

Simple text and photographs describe how carrots grow underground.

Carrot and Pea: An Unlikely Friendship by Morag Hood (2017)

Colin is tall. He’s orange. He's a carrot! He’s nothing like Lee, a round green pea. He can’t do any of the things Lee and his pea pals can do. How can Colin and Lee ever be friends? A charming celebration of embracing differences and standing out in a crowd.

Just Enough Carrots by Stuart J. Murphy (1997)

Just Enough Carrots teaches kids to compare quantities. Before learning to add or subtract, kids need to master the concepts of fewer, more, and the same. Just Enough Carrots is the perfect introduction to comparisons for pre-K and kindergarteners.

Creepy Carrots! by Aaron Reynolds (2012)

In this Caldecott Honor–winning picture book, The Twilight Zone comes to the carrot patch as a rabbit fears his favorite treats are out to get him.

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

The Giant Carrot by Allan Manham (2011)

When brilliant gardener Jack tries to pull up a giant carrot he gets more than he bargained for, but luckily all his friends are on hand to help. Join in the fun in this deliciously bright and quirky twist on a favorite story.

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

Juana Medina's ingenious illustrations nearly pop off the page in her new counting book, ONE BIG SALAD. One avocado deer saunters across the spread, two radish mice scurry by, until finally ten clementine kitties prance onto the scene - all of the ingredients in one big salad!

Carrots by Inez Snyder (2004)

Introduces the carrot, from the time it begins to grow from a seed until it is eaten.

Carrot Soup by John Segal (2006)

Take one rabbit, patiently growing carrots. Add his friends -- Mole, Dog, Cat, Duck, and Pig. Mix all ingredients together for a superdelicious surprise!

Carrots Grow Underground by Mari Schuh (2011)

This title highlights the life cycle of a carrot and gives examples of other plant-based foods that grow underground. Designed for early readers, the book includes a list of additional resources and a glossary.

Oliver’s Vegetables by Vivian French (1995)

On a visit to his grandparents' house, Oliver wants to eat only French fries. Grandpa tells him that he may look in the garden for potatoes, but that he must eat what he finds, whatever it may be. On the first evening, Oliver pulls up carrots and discovers that he likes them. On successive days he discovers spinach, rhubarb, cabbage, beets, and peas. A fun book about eating from the garden.

Too Many Carrots by Katy Hudson (2016)

This charming and lovingly illustrated children's book by acclaimed author Katy Hudson ("A Loud Winter's Nap" and "Bear and Duck") shows how friendships get us over the rough spots in life, even if the going gets a little bumpy. "Too Many Carrots" is the perfect springtime, Eastertime, and anytime gift.

The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss (1993)

From beloved children’s book creators Ruth Krauss and Crockett Johnson comes the perennial favorite "The Carrot Seed," now in a board book that's perfect for little hands. When a little boy plants a carrot seed, everyone tells him it won't grow. But when you are very young, there are some things that you just know, and the little boy knows that one day a carrot will come up. So he waters his seed, and pulls the weeds, and he waits...

Blueberries:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Berries

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4	CC 1: 3.2 CC 1: 4.2 CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3					PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4	SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.3

Growing Minds: Berry Parfaits

Children will learn about different types of fresh berries and practice their listening skills to follow instructions and make their own individual snack.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4		CM 3.2.3 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.5.4				PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4	SE 5: 3.2 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Arizona Department of Education: Blueberry Nutrition Education Toolkit

Students will learn about blueberries as members of the fruit food group. Teachers can select from a variety of activities to help students explore this tasty fruit! Blueberry Handout Blueberry Powerpoint

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4		CM 1.1.3 CM 1.1.4 CM 1.5.3 CM 1.5.4 CM 2.2.3 CM 2.2.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4 CS 1.3.3 CS 1.3.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.6 LL 1: 4.1	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4 PD 3.2.3	SE 1: 4.6 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Berry Ink Painting

Take a step back in time and allow students to create their own watercolor paints using berry juice! This lesson can be used to teach ratios as students mix water and different types of berry juice to create new colors!

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 3.2.3 AL 3.3.3 AL 3.3.4	CC 2: 4.3	CM 3.2.3 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.4.4 CM 3.5.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4			PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4	SE 1: 4.6 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 4.3 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Berries- Fresh, Frozen, Dried, and Jam

Students will explore four different forms of berries: frozen, fresh, dried, and jam. Students will use their senses to compare and contrast the different ways to preserve and prepare berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4			CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.1.4

Blueberries:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Blueberries (12:01)

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month is native only to North America and their origin goes all the way back to the Ice Age. It’s BLUEBERRIES! Nicknamed the “star berry,” the blueberries’ wild cousins were a delicacy, even gracing the first Thanksgiving table. No matter how you serve them, blueberries take center stage in many tasty treats, and today, we are going to Cockeyed Farms to find out just what makes the blueberry the star of the show!

Blueberries:

Books

I LOVE Blueberries! by Shannon Anderson (2025)

Jolie LOVES blueberries and is determined to grow her own using hydroponics with her new friend Margot. With the help of Jolie’s faithful rabbit, Munchy, and Margot’s dog, Pip, plans are underway to bring the whole class together to convince the community to help them set up a hydroponics growing station in their classroom. Filled with engaging facts about blueberries, hydroponics, poetry, and a heartwarming theme of friendship,

The Bear in the Blueberry by Linda Buckley (2022)

The Bear in the Blueberry" is delightful children's book with beautiful water color illustrations shows the circle of life.

Blueberry Moose by Nancy Panko (2021)

It's a beautiful summer day in the state of Maine and when Jaxson looks out his window at his tree fort, he expects to see a chickadee, a deer, a bear, or maybe even an American eagle, but what he does see gives him a big, blue shock!

The Very Berry Counting Book by Jerry Pallotta’s (2017)

Children can learn to count from one to 10 in a berry appetizing way. This lovely counting book, reminiscent of old-fashioned botanical illustrations, introduces children to a variety of berries.

Blueberry Cake by Sarah Dillard (2021)

There’s nothing Little Bear loves more than delicious, delectable blueberries. And one of the very best ways to eat blueberries is in Mama’s sweet, scrumptious blueberry cake. But when Little Bear goes to pick berries so Mama can fix him a treat, he can’t resist eating them all! Can Little Bear figure out how to save some yummy blueberries, or will he once again come home empty handed and never get any blueberry cake?

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

Summertime means fresh veggies at the farm stand to pick out and count! This concept book follows a family's stop at the farm stand as they count tomatoes, strawberries, sunflowers―and yes, ears of corn.

Wild Berries by Julie Flett (2014)

Spend the day picking wild blueberries with Clarence and his grandmother. Meet ant, spider, and fox in a beautiful woodland andscape, the ancestral home of author and illustrator Julie Flett. This book is written in both Enlglish and Cree, in particular the n-dialect, also known as Swampy Cree from the Cumberland House area.

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

Berries, apples, melons, and grapes; oranges, grapefruits, bananas -- yum! This scrumptious picture book, a companion to The Vegetables We Eat, offers youngsters an inviting, information-packed cornucopia of favorite fruits.

More Blueberries! by Susan Musgrave (2015)

These young twins can't get enough of their favorite snack―and they aren't the only ones! With playful rhyming text from award-winning poet Susan Musgrave and gorgeous illustrations by Esperança Melo, this exuberant board book will delight little ones and have everyone happily shouting, "More blueberries!"

Jamberry by Bruce Degen (1995)

This classic book features a berry-loving boy and an endearing rhyme-spouting bear. The fun wordplay and bright paintings with lots of details for young readers to explore make "Jamberry" a perennial favorite. A small boy and a big friendly bear embark on a berry-picking extravaganza, looking for blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries. Their fun adventure comes to a razzamatazz finale under a star-berry sky.

Blueberries for Sal by Robert McCloskey (1948)

This classic children’s book tells the story of a mother and daughter blueberry picking, who encounter a mother bear and pair of cubs feasting on berries in the same patch. Sal’s mother tells her not to eat all the berries so they can store some for winter, but Sal has a hard time following that direction. The bears meanwhile are feasting before a long winter rest. In the story we learn that the mother bear tells her young to eat all they can before winter comes. Follow this story with discussion of storage of berries through the winter. How is the human family different from the bear family in its needs and in the ways of storing this precious food? Reading Level: K-4.

book_cover_Blueberries_For_Sal_Robert_McCloskey

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Lessons and Activities

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Investigating Florets

Using two to three different varieties of cauliflower (white, orange, purple, or green), students will explore similarities and differences between cauliflower varieties. Students will use scientific inquiry skills to predict, observe, describe, and compare the amount of florets each head of cauliflower contains. Cauliflower Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 2.2.4		CM 1.5.3 CM 1.5.4 CM 3.1.3 CM 3.1.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.2.3 CS 1.1.4 CS 1.2.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.2.4

SDSU Extension: Vote for Broccoli

Students will explore different ways broccoli is commonly prepared. Students will then discuss and vote on their favorite ways to eat broccoli. This lesson is a great way for students to share cultural differences and compare how their families prepare and consume broccoli.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4			CS 1.3.3 CS 1.3.4	CSS 2.1.3 CSS 2.1.4	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Green Mountain Farm-to-School: Broccoli and Cauliflower Forest

Students will use cauliflower and broccoli to create a forest background—either with pre-printed broccoli/cauliflower coloring sheets or cut pieces of broccoli/cauliflower serving as stamps. Students can then collaboratively predict what types of plants and animals will live in their forest, adding those organisms to their forest mural.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4	AL 2: 4.3		CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.2.4

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Broccoli Activity Sheet

Students can connect the dots from numbers 1 to 77 to complete a picture of broccoli

Broccoli & Cauliflower:

Books

SEE & EAT Cauliflower: Helping your little ones to know and love their vegetables by Carmel Houston-Price, Bethany Chapman, Katrina Dulay  (2023)

Looking at and learning about cauliflower is an easy, fun and effective way to make cauliflower a food your child enjoys!

How Does Cauliflower Stay White? by Sophia Mae (2025)

Have you ever wondered why cauliflower stays so white and crunchy? Or how its leafy armor protects it from the sun? From tiny seeds to snowy white crowns, this garden STEM story takes kids step by step through the science and magic behind one of nature’s coolest vegetables!

Where Does Broccoli Come From? A Book of Vegetables  by Arielle Dani Lebovitz (2018)

Put your Food Explorer hats on and join our funny veggie characters in search of delicious.

Broccoli! It’s My Favorite Vegetable by Donna Guary (2022)

Eat all of your vegetables!
How many times did you hear that growing up?
How often have you said that to your little ones?
You won't have to tell Henley to eat all of her vegetables, especially if it's broccoli.
She loves it and can eat it every day!

The Vegetables We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2008)

A fun and informative book all about vegetables, how they are grown, and which parts we eat. A great book to show kids the difference between “leaf” vegetables, “bulbs,” “flower buds,” and more. Different sections of the book could be read to highlight different themes: how vegetables grow, what parts of vegetables we eat, how to grow your own vegetable garden, and more.

book_cover_The_Vegetables_We_Eat_Gail_Gibbons

Cabbage:

Lessons and Activities

South Dakota State University Extension: Cabbage

In this lesson, students get to explore the three different types of cabbage while enforcing MyPlate recommended healthy eating habits. Students then use that cabbage to practice their fine-motor skills through learning how to shred cabbage leaves and prepare a tasty snack.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 2.3.3 AL 2.3.4 AL 3.3.3 AL 3.3.4						PD 2.1.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.2.4	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2

Growing Minds: Cabbage Exploration

In this lesson, students will compare heads of red and green cabbage. This is an excellent opportunity for students to practice identifying similarities and differences in size, shape, and weights. This lesson provides pictures needed to create an accordion-style book that illustrates the different stages of cabbage growth.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 1: 4.7	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Cabbage Layers

In this sensory lesson, students will explore heads of cabbage. Each student will have the opportunity to observe how the layers of leaves are arranged to form a full head of cabbage. Once leaves are separated, students will be able to compare leaf size in order to arrange them from smallest to largest. Cabbage Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 1: 4.7	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Cabbage:

Books

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

What happens when the family closes the front door and leaves the house for an outing? A "PAR-TAY!" Children and adults will experience this special veggie house party through buoyant, rhythmic words and playful, exuberant illustrations.

There’s a Cow in the Cabbage Patch by Clare Beaton (2001)

All the animals in this mixed-up farmyard are out of place, but when dinnertime comes around, suddenly they are all back where they belong.

Oliver’s Vegetables by Vivian French (1995)

Clara Caterpillar by Pamela Duncan Edwards (2001)

A carefree cabbage caterpillar named Clara, who becomes a common cream-colored butterfly, can′t possibly compete with a catty, conceited caterpillar named Catisha, who becomes a captivating crimson-colored butterfly. Or can she?

book_cover_Clara_Caterpillar_Pamela_Duncan_Edwards

The Giant Cabbage by Cherie Stihler (2003)

Moose discovers a very big cabbage in his garden that could win first prize at the Alaska State Fair. But there's a problem — it's so huge he can't lift it! An old Russian folktale inspired "The Giant Cabbage," but this contemporary version showcases Alaska with vivid illustrations, adorable animal friends, and verbal twists and turns. Ages: 3-7 years.

book_cover_The_Giant_Cabbage_Cherie_Stihler

The Cabbage Soup Solution by Erika Oller (2004)

Someone is stealing cabbages from Elsie’s cabbage patch. With the aid of her two cats and some delicious homemade soup, Elsie befriends her cabbage thieves. Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_The_Cabbage_Soup_Solution_Erika_Oller

Catfish:

Catfish:

Videos and Other Resources

TackleShare: All About Channel Catfish (6:17)

All About Channel Catfish - Identification, Habitat, Spawning, Diet, Age & Size, Fishing Tips

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Catfish (11:03)

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month thrives in the muddy waters of the southern region of the United States, and it holds a humble yet essential piece of our culinary history here in the South. It's catfish! In the past, eating catfish was a social experience, where they were caught wild, prepared, and eaten together as a group. Now, most of the catfish we eat are farmed from ponds like the one we'll see today. Join me and let's learn a little more about how the catfish hooked America.

Catfish:

Books

A Million Fish… More or Less by Patricia McKissack Dragonfly (1992)

In an original yarn of the Louisiana bayou, McKissack honors the tradition of bragging about the one that got away. Hugh Thomas hears that strange things happen on the Bayou Clapateaux, but he is skeptical--until he invents a fish story of his own.

Facts About the Blue Catfish by Lisa Strattin (2016)

This is a nonfiction book that provides facts along with photographs to instruct children about the Blue Catfish.

Catfish Clues: What is a Fish? By Linda Ayers, Nicola O’Byrne, Drew Temperante (2019)

This is a story about a catfish who wants to know why he is different from the rest of his underwater friends. Throughout the book he discovers the characteristics of catfish, sharks, and other fish that make each unique.

Citrus:

Lessons and Activities

Growing Minds: Tomato Salsa

Students will learn how to make fresh salsa with local ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2						PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1 PM 5: 3.1 PM 5: 3.2 PM 5: 4.2	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

TastEd: Citrus Scratch and Sniff

Children experience new citrus fruits with their sense of smell and communicate about food using speech and/or writing. Children learn that they can try foods in different ways - with their eyes, nose, ears and hands as well as with their mouth.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 4.3 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.3

Peep and the Big Wide World: Compare Citrus Fruits

Look at and inside different citrus fruits to explore their differences.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 4.1		CM 3: 3.1 CM 3: 3.2 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 4.1			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2	SE 1: 3.4 SE 1: 4.6

Arizona Department of Education: Oranges

Students will identify oranges as member of the fruit food group.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2		CM 3: 3.1 CM 3: 3.2 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2	CSS 4: 3.2 CSS 4: 4.1	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 4: 3.1 LL 4: 4.1		SE 5: 3.3 SE 4: 4.2

Citrus:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Citrus

This month's Louisiana Harvest of The Month is a juicy sweet fruit high in vitamin C and enjoyed any time of the day. It's citrus! Let's unpeel this refreshing fruit, a crop that has been grown in Louisiana for over 300 years.

Citrus:

Books

The Silly Satsuma Hardcover by Allan Plenderleith (2012)

When Eric Greenbogle wakes up on Christmas morning there are no presents under the tree - because Eric has been a BAD BOY! All he finds is a single bright orange satsuma. But this is no ordinary satsuma as Father Christmas has given it magical powers. The satsuma springs to life and tries to show Eric that being bad is definitely NOT GOOD!

Lemonade in Winter by Emily Jenkins (2012)

A lemonade stand in winter? Yes, that's exactly what Pauline and John-John intend to have, selling lemonade and limeade--and also lemon-limeade. With a catchy refrain (Lemon lemon LIME, Lemon LIMEADE! Lemon lemon LIME, Lemon LEMONADE!), plus simple math concepts throughout, here is a read-aloud that's great for storytime and classroom use,

The Red Lemon by Bob Staake (2012)

Farmer McPhee isn't ready for what he's about to discover among his cherished bright yellow fruits . . . a red lemon!

Orange Pear Apple Bear by Emily Gravett (2007)

This book sweet illustrations but contains only five words: apple, pear, orange, bear--and there. Emily Gravett creates clever variations on this theme by rearranging the words--on one spread, a brown bear juggles an orange, apple, and pear; on another spread, there is an orange-colored apple and a pear-shaped bear. Simple and compelling, children will enjoy reading this book over and over again as they learn many different concepts.

Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds (2007)

In this story, the animals on the Nuthatcher’s farm are tired of eating the same thing every day. One day, the rooster watches a cooking show and learns to make a delicious salsa that stops everyone’s grumbling. After reading this book with your students, try making a batch of springtime strawberry salsa or traditional tomato-based salsa with your children

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

Crawfish:

Crawfish:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Crawfish (13:05)

This Harvest of the Month never backs down from a fight, always raising its claws, holding its ground instead. For Louisianans, this savory crustacean is woven into our culture and traditions...it’s crawfish! Join us as Burt Tietje of Tallgrass Farms shows us how crawfish are harvested from the farm to your dinner table! Learn more about how this tiny creature makes a big splash in Louisiana aquaculture.

Moby Pincher’s Place

A former educator, Dee Scallan has always been passionate about knowledge and strives to inspire a love of learning in children across the state. Through her tales of Moby Pincher, illustrated by one of her students when he was 8 years old, Dee teaches children about the geography and science of Louisiana. She encourages children to create and illustrate their own stories.

Ag in the Classroom: Crawfish Color Page

Crawfish:

Books

Crawfish Stew by Jeani B Moniotte

"I might've just been passin' through, but I'll never pass by crawfish stew!" The animals along the bayou are enjoying a quiet afternoon - until they are surprised by a whiff of a tempting smell! Unable to resist, one by one they follow their noses to a bowl of crawfish stew on the the bank of the bayou. Who does the bowl belong to and why is it there? Will Bear, Deer, Gator, and Raccoon mind their manners? Rich, colorful illustrations and rhyming repetitive text will have readers of this playful picture book laughing out loud as they consider why manners matter!

Crawley the Crawfish and the Big Bayou Speech by Erin Allen

rawley the Crawfish and the Big Bayou Speech is set in the heart of a lush bayou. A young John Paul meets Crawley, a colorful crawfish who teaches him confidence through public speaking and storytelling. As John Paul grows into a fearless speaker, he carries Crawley's lessons with him, inspiring his classmates with tales of adventure and friendship. Crawley the Crawfish and the Big Bayou Speech is perfect for kids aged 2-7. This delightful book is packed with colorful illustrations and a simple, engaging story that teaches young readers how to prepare and give their very own presentations. Whether they're getting ready for show and tell at school or presenting to a group of friends and family, this book will help them feel confident and excited. The author, Erin Allen, is a sales executive based in the bustling hub of Houston, Texas. Erin delivers compelling presentations while navigating client meetings within the energy industry. Erin found a passion for empowering others to conquer their fear of public speaking. Erin crafts captivating children's books, blending real-world experience with imaginative storytelling to ignite the spark of confidence and leadership in young hearts.

Clovis Crawfish and His Friends by Mary Alice Fontenot

Friendship is the underlying subject as the beauty and dangers of bayou life are depicted in this first story in the landmark Clovis Crawfish series. This commemorative edition features an introduction by the author's daughter and archival material from the beloved series.

Crawfish Boil Bash by Lauren J Mire

Discover the world of Louisiana bayous in this charming short story about a family of gators, their friendly neighbors, and their crawfish boil tradition. This celebration of Cajun culture is a must-read for anyone who loves food and tradition! Great for ages 2 to 8!

Cucumber:

Lessons and Activities

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Cool Cucurbits

Students will learn about the group of vegetables known as cucurbits and use cucurbits in a variety of creative activities:

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2 AL 3: 4.3 AL 4: 4.2		CM 1: 4.1 CM 1: 4.3 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6	CSS 3: 4.1 CSS 3: 4.2 CSS 3: 4.4	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.5 LL 2: 4.1		SE 5: 4.2

Growing Minds: Cucumber Exploration

Students will explore cucumbers and how they grow. This lesson facilitates opportunities for students to explore both different varieties of cucumbers and the gourd family at large. Students are able to examine slices of cucumbers, reporting out their notable findings to the group. Examples of cucumber plants growing

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1			CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Oklahoma Farm to School: Teaching the Senses with Refrigerator Pickles

In this week-long lesson, students learn about the five senses, and then use their senses to observe how cucumbers can be transformed into pickles. This is a great lesson for students to practice fine motor skills if they are allowed to help measure and mix ingredients for the pickling liquid. Each day, students observe how the cucumbers are changing, culminating in a pickle observation and taste-test on Friday.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1			CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Cucumber:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Cucumbers (11:13)

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month is not only refreshing to eat, but people have been relying on them for centuries for things like soothing sunburns, hydrating skin, and even curing bad breath. It's cucumbers! These crispy fruits add crunch to salads and sandwiches, and they're often enjoyed preserved as pickles. Let's head to the farm to learn a little bit more about what makes a cucumber such a big deal!

Cucumber:

Books

For the Love of Cucumbers by Victoria King (2025)

A simple snack becomes a moment of discovery in -For the Love of Cucumbers—a tender rhyming journey told through the eyes of a curious toddler. When Mommy offers a slice of something green and mysterious, taste becomes wonder, and crunch turns into pure delight.

Pickles by Aril Hilland (2020)

If Pickles could talk, what would they say? Meet Dill, a pickle with BIG dreams. This coming-of-age picture book show how anyone can follow their dreams no matter who (or what) they are.

Cucumbers are Delicious by Rhythm Johnson (2021)

Rhythm and her grandmother enjoy gardening. They grow delicious cucumbers together. While educating you on her adventures in the garden, she also introduces you to her unlikely friend.

Pickle Things by Marc Brown (2016)

Have you ever seen a pickle... ? Marc Brown, bestselling author and illustrator ponders the many ways you might not encounter a pickle.

The Adventures of Jackson: Jackson’s Cucumbers by Amanda L Green (2022)

"The Adventures of Jackson" series are appropriate for children of all ages but more suitable for elementary to early middle school children. Book #1, Jackson's Cucumbers, is entertaining and relevant to today's world of using the internet. This fun book teaches children how to problem solve and research for answers.

Pickles, Please!: A Dilly of a Book by Andy Myer (2011)

If you ask a kid what their favorite snack is, most will say pizza, cupcakes, or ice cream. But not Alec Smart—he loves pickles! None of his friends at school understand his taste for pickled treats, nor do his parents. However, one day, just when Alec is pondering how lonely it is to be the only pickle enthusiast around, he comes across a pickle delivery truck and decides to jump in! What will happen when he arrives at the pickle factory? And who will he meet? The lesson learned in this humorous, pickle-filled adventure is that embracing your true colors brings with it special and tasty rewards!

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

The Pickle Patch Bathtub by Frances Kennedy (2004)

One day, Donna tries to bathe in the farmhouse washtub and realizes that her legs are too long. She decides that she will grow pickling cucumbers to sell until she saves up enough money for a new bathtub. How many cucumbers will she have to grow and how long will it take for her to save enough money? Grade Level: Preschool – 2. Lexile Measure: AD830L.

book_cover_The_Pickle_Patch_Bathtub_Frances_Kennedy

Cool as a Cucumber by Sally Smallwood (2005)

A "lift the flap" book featuring a variety of vegetables, their different parts, and things that they are similar to. Reading level: Pre-K.

book_cover_Cool_As_A_Cucumber_Sally_Smallwood

I Hear a Pickle: and Smell, See, Touch, & Taste It, Too! by Rachel Isadora (2016)

A simple introduction to the five senses. Grade level: Pre-K to K.

book_cover_I_Hear_A_Pickle_Rachel_Isadora

Cucumber Soup by Vickie Krudwig (1998)

A big cucumber falls onto an ant mound. Together the ants and their friends work together to lift the cucumber. As each insect is introduced in the story, true facts are given on the opposite page. Numbers 1-10 are also used throughout the text. Reading level: Pre-K to 2.

Culinary Herbs:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Herbed Playdough

Engage your students in a magical hands-on experience where students make their own scented playdough using different culinary herbs. This lesson provides many opportunities to practice measurement, counting, and fine motor skills.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2 AL 3: 3.1 AL 3: 4.1		CM 3: 3.3 CM 3: 3.4 CM 3: 4.3 CM 3: 4.4	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.3 CS 1: 3.4 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 4.1			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2	SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.3

Growing Minds: Tomato Salsa

Students will learn how to make fresh salsa with local ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2						PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1 PM 5: 3.1 PM 5: 3.2 PM 5: 4.2	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Culinary Herbs:

Videos and Other Resources

AMES: Herbs and Spices (9:24)

This video pairs common herbs and spices with their names, physical appearance, and seeds. Great for connecting names with visual appearances!

PBS Kids for Parents: Grow an Herb Garden (1:40)

Learn about the basics of botany and plant growth by growing an herb garden with your child.

Culinary Herbs:

Books

Magic Herbs for Little Explorers by Alicja Kuziel (2025)

Does your child love nature, stories, and discovering the world around them?
“Magic Herbs for Little Explorers” invites young readers on a magical journey through the world of herbs - a place where every leaf tells a story, and every flower holds a secret.

The Legend of Pesto: La Leggenda del Pesto by Lucia Sincich (2025)

The Legend of Pesto / La Leggenda del Pesto takes young readers on a journey to the hills and harbors of Liguria, where sailors, a humble monk, and a handful of fresh ingredients come together to inspire the birth of a beloved Italian treasure.

Spice Rainbow by Caitlin Renee Steuer, Christina Sicoli, and Chunky Deli (2024)

Spice Rainbow is a rhythmic, short and delicious book exploring 13 different spices. Take infants, toddlers, and young children through a charming introduction to fine flavors with mid-century modern vintage illustrations and bold sight words.

B is for Basil: An ABC Book of Herbs and Spices by Dr. Tamara Pizzoli (2021)

From Ancho chili powder to vanilla beans, herbs and spices are one of the ways used all over the world to add a pop of flavor and pizzazz to any plate. This alphabet book visually introduces readers to a multicultural view of how plants and seeds around the world are used to enhance culinary dishes.

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

The Herbal Alphabet by Rachael Rose Zoller (2023)

This book offers a gentle introduction to the letters of the alphabet, while also introducing over 50 common medicinal herbs to children. We hope "The Herbal Alphabet" plants a seed into the minds of children that will germinate and grow into a lifelong interest of the plants and herbs that grow around them.

Eggplant:

Lessons and Activities

OSU Healthy Youth Program: Plant Parts We Eat

Although designated as a kindergarten lesson, this activity can easily be scaled to be used in the pre-k classroom, allowing students to work in small-groups or facilitating the lesson as a whole-group discussion. Through this lesson, students will sort commonly eaten fruit and vegetables into categories based upon the part of the plant that is eaten. Prior to attempting this lesson, students must have a clear understanding of the parts of a plant (root, stem, leaf, flower, fruit and seeds). It is recommended that you use the attached images below. Extra Plants Part Images

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2			LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Eggplant:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Eggplants (11:26)

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month just might be the most mysterious of all the vegetables. In many parts of the world it's called an Aubergine but it's even known as the king of vegetables. It's eggplant! Early varieties were white oval fruits that looked a lot like chicken eggs, which is how the eggplant originally got its name. What else is this mystery vegetable hiding? Let's head to the farm to find out what other secrets we can reveal about this ancient plant.

Growing Baby Eggplant Time Lapse (2:07)

This video shows an eggplant plant growing from seed to producing fruit over 87 days.

Eggplant:

Books

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

Leafy Greens:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Greens

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1	CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3					PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1	SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.3

Montana Harvest of the Month ECE Classroom Bites: Kale Investigation

Children will practice observation and drawing skills by identifying and labeling the parts of the kale plant. Children will use words such as stem, variety, hardy, bumpy, smooth, thick, thin to describe kale. Children will taste kale and explain why eating kale is healthy all year long.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 4.1		CM 3: 3.1 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1 CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.6 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.1		LL 1: 3.1 LL 1: 3.9 LL 1: 4.1 LL 2: 3.1 LL 2: 3.2 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 3.1 SE 3: 3.4 SE 3: 4.1 SE 3: 4.3

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: An Adventure Stems from Learning About Spinach

Through three activities, students will identify spinach as a lightweight, green leaf vegetable, and describe the appearance, smell, and taste of spinach.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1					LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Leafy Greens:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Leafy Greens Activity Sheet

Students add leafy greens together and then practice tracing the number of greens counted.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Greens (10:53)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is a staple in southern cooking. It's greens! Check out our video to learn a little more about what makes greens so special!

Leafy Greens:

Books

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

A Feast for Joseph by Terry Farish and OD Bonny (2021)

Joseph misses sharing meals with lots of people like he did back in the refugee camp, so when the neighbors finally come over, it’s a feast! A touching story about adjusting to a new home and the pleasure of cooking and sharing food with friends.

I Love Greens by Victoria Boutenko (2012)

I Love Greens is an elegantly illustrated book that tenderly teaches toddlers about the importance of eating healthy.

Grandma Lena’s Big Ol’ Turnip by Denia Lewis Hester (2005)

Grandma Lena believes that something worth doing is worth doing right. So she takes good care of the turnips she plants in her garden. One turnip grows to an enormous size―Baby Pearl thinks it's a big potato! It is big enough to feed half the town.

Captain Kale and the Superfoods by Amy Roth (2013)

This story is about a boy who is very unhealthy and one night he witnesses Captain Kale and the Superfoods battling with Sneaky Snack Cake and all the junk food in his pantry. They are in a battle over his health! He learns how important it is to eat healthy nutritious fruits and vegetables and how much it improves his health

Mimi’s Strategy: What to do when the vegetables are green by Linda Goudsmit (2020)

Hildy does NOT like green vegetables, and every night at dinnertime she is expected to eat the green vegetables on her plate. What is Hildy supposed to do?

The Marvelous Mustard Seed by Amy-Jill Levine (2018)

Discover the surprising potential of one small seed in The Marvelous Mustard Seed. Based on Jesus’ parable of the Mustard Seed, this inspiring children’s book shows young readers that one tiny seed—just like one small child—carries a world of potential. The Marvelous Mustard Seed features ethnically diverse characters, and it is ideal for children ages 4-8. A special note for parents and teachers is included.

Oliver’s Vegetables by Vivian French (1995)

Sylvia’s Spinach by Katherine Pryor and Anna Raff (2014)

A picky eater discovers the joy of growing food and the pleasure of tasting something new. Sylvia Spivens always says no to spinach. But one day Sylvia's teacher gives her a packet of spinach seeds to plant for the school garden. Overcoming her initial reluctance and giving the seeds a little love and patience, Sylvia discovers the joy of growing food and the pleasure of tasting something new.

book_cover_Sylvias_spinach_Katherine_Pryor_Anna_Raff

The Vegetables We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2008)

Lettuce:

Lessons and Activities

Seeds to Success: Lettuce Explore

In this lesson, students are invited to explore different varieties of lettuce by using their five senses.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
		CM 1.1.3 CM 1.3.3 CM 1.1.4 CM 1.3.4 CM 1.2.4 CM 2.2.3 CM 3.1.3 CM 3.2.3 CM 3.1.4 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.3.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4 CS 1.3.3 CS 1.3.4		LL 1: 3.1 LL 1: 3.2 LL 1: 3.4 LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 4: 3.1 LL 4: 3.3 LL 4: 4.1 LL 4: 4.3	PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Gardening for Grades: Lettuce Be Different

Although designated as a K-6 lesson, this can easily be paired down for pre-k students. In this lesson, students begin by comparing their own similarities and differences. They then compare, sow, and grow seeds of different lettuce varieties. If you do not have time to grow lettuce, students can observe similarities and differences in different lettuce varieties found at your local grocery store.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1			CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.3 CS 3: 4.5 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7	CSS 2: 4.1	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Lettuce:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Lettuce (13:04)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is made up of 95% water and is used as toppings on things as tacos and sandwiches but it also tasty on its own. It’s lettuce! Let us learn a little bit more about the second most popular vegetable in the United States.

Lettuce:

Books

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

Oliver’s Fruit Salad by Vivian French (1998)

Oliver is off to stay with Grandpa, who grows his own vegetables. But Oliver doesn't eat vegetables—only chips. How will Grandpa persuade him into a week of healthy eating?

Lettuce! by Diana Kizlauskas (2015)

This thoughtful, fun, and compelling tale focuses on Rabbit, who finds that lettuce he has planted has grown as big as a building... With its complex themes presented in a simple yet delightful story, this will make an excellent addition to any picture-book collection.

Mushrooms:

Lessons and Activities

Mushrooms in Schools: Classifying Mushrooms

This lesson provides students the chance to use their five senses to discover the main parts of mushrooms and then describe the characteristics of different mushroom types. Using their knowledge of mushroom anatomy, students will construct a clay model of a their favorite type mushroom and then label the major parts of that mushroom. Classifying Mushrooms PowerPoint

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1	AL 2: 4.3	CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.1 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Mushrooms in Schools: How Do Mushrooms Grow?

In this exploratory lesson, students will observe how mushrooms are grown on a farm. Students will identify the parts of a mushroom and explain why mushrooms are good for our bodies.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1					LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Mushrooms:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Mushroom Activity Sheet

Students can practice tracing the letter M and then color mushrooms!

American Mushroom Institute: Fun with Fungi Coloring Sheets

This coloring book features images of cultivated mushrooms grown in the United States, produced by the American Mushroom Institute for students everywhere.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Mushrooms (10:22)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is not a plant or an animal. It’s often mistakenly called a vegetable, but it is actually the fruit of a fungus. It’s mushrooms! These tasty toadstools prefer to grow in the dark. In fact, they require no sunlight at all, but today we're going to shed some light on what it takes to get these meaty, nutritious mushrooms from the farm to your fork.

Mushrooms:

Books

Little Book of Fungi by Christina Sicoli, Caitlin Renee Steuer, and Chunky Deli

Little Book of Fungi is a rhythmic short story about where and how safe to eat mushrooms grow. Take newborns, infants, toddlers, and young children through playful illustrations and rhymes about these beloved organic fresh foods.

Mushrooms Know: Wisdom From Our Friends the Fungi by Kallie George (2024)

Mushrooms always wear their thinking caps. They know so many things. This vibrant and informative book shares the fascinating lessons that fungi can teach us: that small can be mighty, being unique is a reason to celebrate—and staying connected is key

Nature Stories:Little Mushroom by Willow Green (2024)

Have you ever wondered how little mushrooms grow in the forest? Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure as Nature Stories: Little Mushroom unravels the mysteries of mycelium. With vibrant illustrations that come alive with every turn of the page, this book provides an enthralling introduction to the fascinating life cycle of a mushroom.

Meet the Mushrooms! by Sonali Fry (2024)

Meet the mushrooms and join them in the forest for a busy day of dancing, playing, and exploring—the more mushrooms, the merrier! With a gentle, rhyming text and adorable illustrations, this book is perfect for young mushroom enthusiasts.

Melon & Watermelon:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Melons

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1	CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3	CM 1: 3.1 CM 1: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.3 CS 1: 3.4 CS 1: 3.6 CS 1: 3.7 CS 1: 3.8 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 1: 4.6 CS 2: 3.1 CS 2: 4.1			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Cool Cucurbits

Students will learn about the group of vegetables known as cucurbits and use cucurbits in a variety of creative activities:

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2 AL 3: 4.3 AL 4: 4.2		CM 1: 4.1 CM 1: 4.3 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6	CSS 3: 4.1 CSS 3: 4.2 CSS 3: 4.4	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.5 LL 2: 4.1		SE 5: 4.2

Growing Minds: Melon Exploration

As students learn about different types of local melons (cantaloupe, watermelon, and honeydew), they will used their senses and scientific skills to make predictions, explore the components of their environment, and understand that many fruits come in lots of varieties.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 1: 4.7	CS 1: 4.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: Can You Tell Me About Cantaloupe?

This lesson walks students through two different activities, exploring both the outside and inside characteristics of a cantaloupe. Students will work on using descriptive words to explain the physical characteristics of a cantaloupe

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1			CS 1: 4.1 CS 3: 4.1		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Investigating Seeds

Students will use their scientific inquiry skills to predict, observe, describe and compare melons grown in Louisiana. After observing whole melons, students will then be able to harvest seeds from the fruits, observing how seed size, shape, and spacing/grouping throughout the fruits may vary. Melon Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Melon & Watermelon:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Watermelon (11:51)

This month's Louisiana Harvest of the Month was so loved by American writer, Mark Twain, that he declared, “when you taste it you know what the angels eat,” and it is a heavenly treat on a hot summer day. It’s watermelon! Louisiana is known to grow some of the sweetest varieties of watermelon, so today we are in Washington Parish at Perry Talley’s farm to learn a little bit more about this angelic fruit.

Melon & Watermelon:

Books

Down by the Bay (Raffi Songs to Read) by Nadine Bernard Westcott (1988)

Raffi's hilarious version of the classic song about strange events that happen down by the bay, where the watermelons grow...

Anansi and the Talking Melon by Eric A. Kimmel (1994)

When Anansi the Spider gets stuck in a melon, he decides to pass his time by doing what he's best at—tricking the other animals around him. When his melon begins talking, Elephant is so impressed he decides to take it to show the king. But Anansi can't resist the opportunity to make jokes at the expense of everyone they meet. Even the King loses his temper over Anansi's bold remarks—but how will the Spider free himself?

The Antelope Ate My Cantaloupe! Paperback by Jennifer R. Lee (2022))

A boy goes out to the garden to harvest his beloved cantaloupe, but the unthinkable happens and he drops it! He ends up going on a silly, outrageous adventure through town to catch his big, plumpy melon!

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

The Donkey Egg by Janey Stevens (2019)

Bear would rather sleep all day than work on his farm, and Fox knows just the kind of help he needs—a donkey! When Fox tricks Bear into buying a donkey egg, Bear can't wait for it to hatch so he can meet his new friend. But donkeys don't come from eggs! And when the "egg" finally opens, Bear gets a fruity surprise. Luckily, Bear doesn't have to face disappointment alone . . . Hare is there to help!

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

A Seed Grows (My First Look at a Plant’s Life Cycle) by Pamela Hickman (1997)

The "My First Look At" series provides young children with an introduction to the world around them. In "A Seed Grows," follow the growth of a plant, from a peek inside a sprouting seed to the harvest of the fruit. The book suggests ways parents and children can explore nature — without disturbing it. Reading level: Upper Elementary.

Watermelon Day by Kathi Appelt (1996)

There's a watermelon growing in the corner of the patch where the fence posts meet, and Jesse is waiting for it. Waiting for it to fill up with the cool summer rain and the hot summer sun. Waiting until at last it is ripe and ready for eating. Waiting until it is ready for her family's annual Watermelon Day. Reading Level: Elementary.

Watermelon for Everyone by Martha Rose Woodward (2011)

A colorful book geared toward students from kindergarten through college level. This nonfiction book is the winner of a special award as the 2013 Best Cookbook in the World on the Topic of Watermelon from Gourmand Magazine in Madrid, Spain. The Cookbook Section contains recipes for both non-cooked and cooked dishes having watermelon as the primary ingredient. Lesson Plans and teaching activities for teachers and parents are also included as well as historic facts about watermelon. Reading level: K-2.

book_cover_Watermelon_For_Everyone_Martha_Rose_Woodward

Watermelon Wishes by Lisa Moser (2006)

Charlie and his grandfather spend their summer growing a patch of watermelons and waiting for the perfect one to wish on. Reading Level: Elementary.

Watermelon Madness by Taghreed Najjar (2018)

Noura is crazy about watermelon. She wants to eat nothing else, every day, at every meal. In fact, Noura thinks there is no such thing as too much watermelon — until one night, when the watermelon she has hidden in her room to eat all by herself begins to grow and Noura gets taken on a wild watermelon adventure! A story that can be the springboard for a discussion on favorite foods, eating a balanced diet, sharing with others, and trying new foods. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Watermelon_Madness_Taghreed_Najjar

One Watermelon Seed by Celia Barker Lottridge (2012)

Max and Josephine tend their garden, counting as they plant their garden from 1 to 10. As the harvest comes in, they count by groups of 10. Engaging illustrations with hidden animals. Ages: 3-6 years.

book_cover_One_Watermelon_Seed_Celia_Barker_Lottridge

The Watermelon Seed by Greg Pizzoli (2013)

A crocodile has one big fear: swallowing a watermelon seed. Winner of the 2014 Theodor Seuss Geisel Award. Lexile: 180L. Grade level: Pre-K.

book_cover_The_Watermelon_Seed_Greg_Pizzoli

Okra:

Lessons and Activities

Schoolyard Gardens: Write Your Name with Vegetables

In the book, Mrs. Peanuckle's Vegetable Alphabet, go through each letter of the alphabet and learn about the different vegetables that start with each letter. Write your first name and draw vegetables that start with the letters in your name!

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
EL.3.1.3 EL.3.2.3 EL 3.1.4 EL 3.2.4 EL 3.3.4 EL 5.2.3 EL 5.2.4 EL 5.3.3 EL 5.3.4

Shamima’s Workshop: Okra Stamping

Okra is a funny shaped vegetable – often called Lady Finger. Okra stamping activity is perfect flower printing idea. I think children will love this stamping/printing activity as it allows them to do something in a completely free fashion.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4	CCA 2.2.3 CCA 2.2.4	CM 3.2.3 CM 4.4.3 CM 4.4.4				PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4

Okra:

Books

Suma & Oko and the Stupendous Pot of Okra Soup by Madeline Wilson-Ojo (2021)

Join Suma, Oko and the rest of the family as they begin their first of many adventures to Auntie Edem’s store to pick up a few ingredients, and then back home to cook a stupendous pot of okra soup - with Mum and Dad’s help of course!

Potatoes:

Potatoes:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Potato Activity Sheet

Students count potatoes and practice tracing numbers 1-5.

Potatoes:

Books

The Potato People by Pamela Allen (2005)

One day Grandma and Jack make two people out of potatoes. When Jack moves away, Grandma misses him and the potato people wither. She buries them in the garden and a huge potato plant grows. When Jack returns to see it, it has died, but underneath it they discover hundreds of new potatoes.

Potato (Life Cycles) by Kirsty Holmes (2021)

Explore the interesting life cycle of the potato

The Greatest Potatoes by Penelope Stowell (2005)

Feast your eyes on the world's most delectable disaster! George Crum is the very best fry cook at Cary Moon's Lake Lodge Restaurant. When Cornelius Vanderbilt, the richest and most rancorous man in America, returns from France, everyone panics. Vanderbilt has been known to shut down restaurants that aren't up to his culinary standards. But George Crum isn't moved, until . . . Vanderbilt repeatedly sends his potatoes back to the kitchen. And George decides that if Vanderbilt wants a bad potato, well, that's exactly what he's going to get! The result is the tastiest, most scrumptious, potato haute cuisine ever invented and an especially riotous picture book for tout le monde.

From the Farm to the Table Potatoes by Kathy Coatney (2017)

Did you know French fries come from potatoes? Children see through photographs and easy-to-read text how potatoes are grown from planting to processing.

Potato: A Tale from the Great Depression by Kate Lied (1997)

During the "Great Depression," a family seeking work finds employment for two weeks digging potatoes in Idaho

Potatoes, Papaw, and Me by Carol June Franks (2023)

Potatoes, Papaw, and Me is a nostalgic tale of a little girl helping her grandfather harvest potatoes. Written in verse, the rhythm and vivid vocabulary make each page a fun, upbeat read while leading the reader through lively snapshots from the garden, to the well, to the table, to relaxing when the work is done. Hiruni's illustrations perfectly represent the tone of this engaging, fun-loving story. Follow along with these two animated characters as they enjoy each other and their chore on the farm.

T is For Tater Tot: An ABC Adventure Through the World of Potatoes by Makenzie Baird (July 2024)

Discover the wonderful world of potatoes with "T is for Tater Tot," an enchanting ABC book that will captivate young readers and potato enthusiasts alike! This delightful book takes children on an alphabetical adventure, introducing them to the many varieties, uses, and fun facts about potatoes, from "A is for Au Gratin" to "Z is for Zebra Chip."

Potato Joe by Keith Baker (2008)

This fresh adaptation of the classic "One Potato, Two Potato" nursery rhyme is a counting adventure and rollicking good time rolled into one. Spunky leader Potato Joe and his nine spuds pals count up to ten and back down again, all while playing games and meeting up with other garden friends.

Radish:

Lessons and Activities

Georgia Organics: Eat a Rainbow Lesson Set

Through these seven short lessons, students will celebrate the diversity of colors found in food while learning about why "eating a rainbow" is a healthy choice for our bodies.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 3.2.3 AL 3.2.4		CM 3.1.3 CM 3.1.4		CSS 2.1.3 CSS 2.1.4		PD 1.1.3 PD 1.1.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Iowa Farm to School & Early Care: Root Crops

Lead students through an exciting review of the four major parts of plants and brainstorm examples of each part we might find on our dinner plates with this food system lesson.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development

Growing Minds: Colorful Plate Spinners

Students will used their color identification and grouping skills to create a colorful spinner collage of fruits and vegetables that people eat as part of a healthy diet.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.3 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2				PM 2: 4.1

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Big Roots, Little Roots, Skinny Roots, Round Roots

In this sensory lesson, students will use their senses to describe the similarities and differences of an assortment of root vegetables. Root Vegetable Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2 CM 1: 4.7	CS 1: 4.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Radish:

Books

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

Rosita and the Night of the Radishes by Dorothy Thurgood Manning (2016)

Young Rosita competes in Oaxaca, Mexico's radish carving contest which is held every December 23rd. She hopes to win first prize and use the money to help her family's failing farm.

Rice:

Lessons and Activities

Pilot Light: Growing and Eating Food Around the World- The Story of Rice

Students will learn about food sources and origins by investigating how rice is grown around the world and eaten in different ways in various locations and cultures and identifying a rice dish that they have eaten before and where they ate it.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1	CC 2: 4.3				LL 4: 4.1 LL 4: 4.3 LL 4: 4.7		SE 1: 4.4

Focus on the Family: Rice Art Mosaics

Have you ever seen a mosaic at a museum? Artists take small pieces of broken tile and arrange them to make beautiful designs. With a little imagination, you can create your own mosaics using materials from your kitchen.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 4: 3.1 AL 4: 4.1	CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3

Rice:

Videos and Other Resources

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Rice (12:27)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month has a long history in Louisiana, although it is not native here. It is actually one of several contributions brought from West Africa to the Southern table. It’s rice! Rice is an essential ingredient in Cajun cuisine, such as gumbo, jambalaya, etouffee, and boudin. Join me, here in Acadia Parish, as we uncover the grains of truth behind this simple, hearty dish.

MN Ag in the Classroom Harvest of the Month: Wild Rice (4:56)

Wild rice is a staple in Minnesota. Watch how the White Earth Reservation in Naytahwuash, Minnesota shows how important wild rice is to the Ojibwe tribe. Logan Cloud shows the process of rice parching and finishing.

TinkerLab: Make Colored Rice

Make your own colored rice for an afternoon of sensory play or for filling clear jars with layers of rainbow rice

Think Rice Coloring Book

Appropriate for ages 2 – 6, this coloring activity tells the farm-to-table story of U.S.-grown rice. Kids are able to color different scenes from the rice farm and learn about the lifecycle of rice by season. They also learn where rice is grown and how rice makes its way table where they can color in a family making dinner and draw a healthy MyPlate dish with rice.

Rice:

Books

Yumbo Gumbo by Keila V. Dawson (2024)

Annabelle's grandparents are finally going to teach her how to cook gumbo! But the family can't agree on what type of gumbo to make. They vote for their favorite, but the vote results in a tie. Now what? A playful exploration of data and social-emotional reasoning, featuring Louisiana Creole characters and a glossary of Louisiana Creole words.

Let’s go Nuts (Seeds We Eat) by April Sayre (2013)

What do nuts, beans, grains, and even some spices have in common? They’re all seeds—seeds we can eat! So get ready to greet lentils and limas, take a crack at coconuts and cashews, and say hi to rye and buckwheat. You’ll soon be seeing seeds in a whole new way!

Chef Creole by Johnette Downing(2008)

There was a man from New Orleans and his name was Chef Creole. His hair was made of rice, his eyes of red beans, and his feet of beignets. Young readers will delight in this Louisiana picture-book adaptation of the song Aiken Drum.

The Rice in the Pot Goes Round and Round by Wendy Wan-Long Shang (2021)

Sing along to this delicious twist on "The Wheels on the Bus" and celebrate the food, laughter, and love of a multigenerational family meal!

The Kid Who Changed the World by Andy Andrews (2014)

This book tells the story of Nobel Laureate, Norman Borlaug. Norman grew up as an average farm boy in Iowa, but later his work as a plant scientist reached far and wide to help improve the growth of wheat, rice, and corn all over the world. This book highlights the benefits of emerging science, but also has an underlying message to teach kids that, "Every choice you make, good or bad, can make a difference."

One Grain of Rice by Demi (1997)

A mathematical folktale illustrating the concept of doubling using rice as the example.

Red Beans & Rice by Jeanette Weiland (2020)

Red Beans & Rice is a lively read, encompassing multiple characters, with hand-drawn typography highlighting the children’s voices. Young readers will enjoy spotting hidden treasures throughout the pages along with the creatures and critters that share a home in this delicious region of Louisiana. Aspiring chefs will appreciate the extras, including a kid-friendly red beans and rice recipe from restauranteur Dickie Brennan and a vegan version of the dish by Sweet Potato Soul author and blogger, Jenné Claiborne, among others.

Everybody Cooks Rice by Norah Dooley (1991)

In this multicultural picture book, Carrie goes from one neighbor's house to the next looking for her brother, who is late for dinner. She discovers that although each family is from a different country, everyone makes a rice dish at dinnertime. Readers will enjoy trying the simple recipes that correspond to each family's unique rice dish.

Shrimp:

Shrimp:

Books

Three Little Shrimp by J. Steven Spires (2017)

Dive into crystal blue waters to follow three very curious little shrimp as they explore beneath the surface. Dangers surround them--egrets, red fish, and a loggerhead turtle all love eating shrimp! Even the fisherman's net is out to capture them. When the little shrimp venture out of their troupe they find more than they expected in this entertaining and educational adventure for beginning readers. This updated edition provides beginning readers and teachers up-to-date information on this curious crustacean in "The Amazing Shrimp" page packed with definitions, statistics, and "you won't believe it" facts about shrimp.

Giovanni & Scampi by Aaron T. Watene (2010)

This is the story of an incredibly unique shrimp and his experience with a local fisherman who learns an important lesson to be exactly who you are. Scampi also learns to be humble while making a good friend.

Snap Beans:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Peas and Beans

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Dried, Sprouted, Cooked, and More!

Students can compare the feel, taste, and appearance of an assortment of beans. Students will also compare dried, cooked, and sprouted beans of the same variety. Bean Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Sprouting Beans

In this exploration, students sprout their own bean plants. Students can make predictions about how plants grow from beans and how quickly the process occurs. Once seeds sprout, students will be able to measure and track how much the beans grow. This lesson pairs well as a pre-cursor to “Dried, Sprouted, Cooked, and More!” Bean Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 3: 4.3 CM 3: 4.4	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.5 CS 3: 4.6		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Growing Minds: Seed Exploration

This is a great lesson to give students an opportunity to explore bean seeds up-close. After using their powers of observations to compare dry and soaked lima beans, students will construct germination environments for their soaked beans. If time permits, students can explore and count seeds in other fruits and/or try to match seeds to the fruit that produced them.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 3: 4.3 CM 3: 4.4	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.5 CS 3: 4.6		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Snap Beans:

Books

A Bean’s Life Cycle by Mary R. Dunn (2017)

The process of a new life starting is fascinating! Watch a bean grow from a seed to a plant. Young readers will learn about the stages in a bean's life. From the seed germinating to the bean pods that are picked for eating. The life cycle of a bean is beautiful to see!

One Little Bean by Cecil Kim (2015)

This beautifully illustrated storybook depicts the life cycle of a bean plant. Children can learn the various stages and elements involved in the growth and reproduction of plants.

One Bean by Anne Rockwell (1999)

What happens when you plant just one little bean? A fundamental childhood experiment charmingly unfolds in this first science book about planting and observation

LMNO Peas by Keith Baker (2010)

Get ready to roll through the alphabet with a jaunty cast of busy little peas. Featuring a range of zippy characters from Acrobat Peas to Zoologist Peas, this delightful picture book highlights a variety of interests, hobbies, and careers—each one themed to a letter of the alphabet—and gives a wonderful sense of the colorful world we live in.

The Runaway Pea by Kjartan Poskitt (2021)

It’s time for dinner, but one pesky pea has decided to roll himself off the plate in search of a party! The rogue pea shoots, flings, and bounces across the kitchen as he embarks on his perilous adventure. But will he find the fun he is looking for, or is the kitchen a scarier place than he thought?

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

Pick, Pull, Snap!: Where Once a Flower Bloomed by Lola M. Schaefer (2003)

This lovely picture book describes in simple terms the process by which plants flower, create seeds, and bear fruit, and shows the various stages in stunning, life-sized detail on lush, tri-fold pages.

Let’s go Nuts (Seeds We Eat) by April Sayre (2013)

First Peas to the Table: How Thomas Jefferson Inspired a School Garden by Susan Grigsby (2012)

Maya loves contests, so she is excited when her teacher announces they will plant a school garden like Thomas Jefferson's garden at Monticello―and they'll have a "First Peas to the Table" contest, just like Jefferson and his neighbors had each spring. Maya plants her pea seeds with a secret head start―found in Jefferson’s Garden Book―and keeps careful notes in her garden journal. But her friend Shakayla has plans of her own for the contest

Green Bean! Green Bean! by Patricia Thomas (2016)

Plant it ― water it ― weed it ― protect it ― and under the blossoms is the perfect shady nook to read a book! Pretty soon it's time to pick all those long, lean beans, and to harvest a full season of garden knowledge and experience.

book_cover_Green_Bean_Green_Bean_Patricia_Thomas

Squash:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Squash

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.3 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: Crookneck Squash Row

Through the activities in this Grow It, Try It, Like It! chapter, children are invited to touch, smell, feel, and taste squash. Children also learn how squash grow. Planting activities help children connect the delicious food choices at the table with the farm or school garden.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 3.2 AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2	CC 1: 3.6 CC 1: 4.5 CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3 CC 3: 3.4 CC 3: 4.3 CC 3: 4.4 CC 4: 3.1 CC 4: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 4.1 CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.3 CS 3: 3.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.3 CS 3: 4.5	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5		LL 1: 3.1 LL 1: 3.6 LL 1: 3.9 LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 3.2 LL 2: 4.2	PM 1: 3.1 PM 1: 4.1 PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2 PM 5: 3.1 PM 5: 3.2 PM 5: 4.2

Oklahoma Ag in the Classroom: Cool Cucurbits

Students will learn about the group of vegetables known as cucurbits and use cucurbits in a variety of creative activities:

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2 AL 3: 4.3 AL 4: 4.2		CM 1: 4.1 CM 1: 4.3 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6	CSS 3: 4.1 CSS 3: 4.2 CSS 3: 4.4	LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.5 LL 2: 4.1		SE 5: 4.2

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Investigating Seeds

Children will use their scientific inquiry skills to predict, observe, and describe similarities and differences among a variety of winter squashes—both internally and externally. Winter Squash Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

Early Science Matters: Squash and Pumpkins

Using squash and pumpkins, students will compare the physical properties of fruits and their seeds. Prior to opening a squash and a pumpkin, students are invited to make predictions regarding what will be inside the gourds.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.1 LL 2: 4.2

Squash:

Videos and Other Resources

The Kiboomers: Five Little Pumpkins Halloween Song (1:56)

It's time to learn and sing with The Kiboomers! This funny counting song is perfect to play during a circle time activity for the fall or autumn season theme unit. This pumpkin song also introduces young learners to the simple concept of counting from 1 to 5. Enjoy!

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Winter Squash (11:08)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was so vital to the early settlers of our country, that they may not have survived without it during those harsh New England winters. Today they are every part of our autumn celebrations. It’s winter squash! The indigenous people of that time taught us all that we know and love about pumpkins, squash and gourds. This is Chenier Farms, where they’re going squash our curiosity on how this crop is grown, harvested, and prepared into a cornucopia of treats!

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Summer Squash (10:41)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month comes in all sorts of beautiful sizes and colors and its name celebrates, probably your favorite season. It’s summer squash! There are some many interesting things to know about this amazing group of vegetables. Let’s head out to the farm to find out more!

Allotment Diary: Zucchini Growing Time-Lapse (1:20)

This video shows a zucchini plant growing and flowering during 5 days of filming.

Squash:

Books

Squash & Pumpkin: #SquashGoals by G.G. McQueen (2025)

Water, Weed and Wait by Edith Hope Fine and Angela Halpin (2010)

When Miss Marigold challenges the kids at Pepper Lane Elementary to turn an unpromising patch of their schoolyard into a garden full of fruits, flowers, and vegetables, they know they’ll need all the help they can get. Soon everyone in the community is lending a hand—including an unlikely neighbor with a soft spot for gardening—and it isn’t long before peppers, zuccchini, sugar peas, snapdragons, zinnias, and much more are growing and blooming.

Butternut by Jill Dana (2022)

Fresh from the farm, Butternut awakes to find himself lost in a supermarket. Is he butter? Is he a nut? Is he squash or squashed? Just who is he and where does he belong? Join Butternut on his journey through the supermarket aisles as he makes new friends and discovers more about himself.

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

How to Grow a Monster by Kiki Thorpe (2020)

Last year, Gabe's mom grew way too many zucchinis. This year, Gabe and his sister have a secret plan to take control of the garden. They have to stop the zucchini madness!

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

The Biggest Pumpkin Ever by Steven Kroll (1993)

Once there were two mice who fell in love with the same pumpkin....Desmond the field mouse wants to carve the biggest jack-o'-lantern in the neighborhood with his pumpkin. Clayton the house mouse wants to win the Biggest Pumpkin contest with his. But when they discover that their choice pumpkins are actually the same one, Desmond and Clayton decide to work together to grow the biggest pumpkin ever!

Pumpkin Pumpkin by Jeanne Titherington (1990)

Jamie plants a pumpkin seed in the spring and, after watching it grow all summer, carves a face in it for Halloween! But best of all, he saves some seeds that he will plant again next spring.

From Seed to Pumpkin: A Fall Book for Kids by Wendy Pfeffer (2015)

Read and find out about how pumpkins grow from a tiny yellow seed to a pumpkin in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

Let’s Explore Pumpkins! (Food Field Trips) by Jill Colella (2020)

Many people use pumpkins for fall decorating. But pumpkin is also delicious in soup, pasta, muffins, and of course pies! See how pumpkins grow, learn what is inside of pumpkins, make pumpkin soup, and create a pumpkin squirrel feeder.

Runaway Pumpkins by Teresa Bateman (2020)

The old adage of "when life hands you lemons, make lemonade" is reborn with pumpkins! When a bumpy road and a faulty bus storage lock release a load of handpicked pumpkins back into the wild, the students on a field trip are left with a single pumpkin. Pluckily, they decide to take what they have and do what they can. Together they decorate the only surviving pumpkin for their harvest fair. But good fortune comes knocking the next day when a group of kind neighbors arrives at the school. They found the smashed pumpkins and turned them into celebratory seasonal fare, perfect for sharing: yummy soup, cake, pie, and even fries!

Daniel Visits a Pumpkin Patch by Maggie Testa (2021)

Daniel Tiger is visiting a pumpkin patch with his family and friends. The best part is, Mom and Dad Tiger told him he could pick out a pumpkin to bring home. Once they get to the patch, there are so many pumpkins to choose from—some are very small and some are very large. Will Daniel find the perfect one?

We’re Going on a Pumpkin Hunt by Mary Hogan Wilcox (2020)

A spooky nighttime hunt for the biggest pumpkin in town results in a fright but also a great adventure. Laugh out loud at the sweet silliness and be heartened to know you might not be the only scaredy cat...er, mouse...in the pumpkin patch. The perfect read aloud for fall and Halloween fun.

Sophie’s Squash Go to School by Pat Zietlow Miller (2016)

On Sophie’s first day of school, nobody appreciates her two best friends, Bonnie and Baxter, baby squash that she grew in her garden. Even worse, one classmate, Steven Green, won’t leave Sophie alone. He sits by her at circle time. He plays near her during recess. And he breathes on her while she paints. Steven just wants to be friends, but Sophie isn’t interested. Still, Sophie knows that her squash friends won’t last forever. Maybe it would be nice to have some human friends after all. . . .

Benji and the 24 Pound Banana Squash by Alan C. Fox (2017)

Benji has made up his mind: he's going to grow the biggest banana squash ever from the tiny seeds he saved last summer. In spring, when the soil is soft, he plants the seeds, waters them, waits, waters them and waits. Will his dream come true?

Sophie’s Squash (2013) by Pat Zietlow Miller

On a trip to the farmers' market with her parents, Sophie chooses a squash, but instead of letting her mom cook it, she names it Bernice. From then on, Sophie brings Bernice everywhere, despite her parents' gentle warnings that Bernice will begin to rot. As winter nears, Sophie does start to notice changes.... What's a girl to do when the squash she loves is in trouble?

The Little Squash Seed by Gayla Seale (2002)

How is it that a dull, dried-up little seed can produce a brightly colored nutritious vegetable? Miraculous things do happen when a seed is planted in the dirt and cared for by an attentive gardener. Kids can put on their garden gloves, grab their tools, and join the little squash seed, the gardener, and his grandchildren for a season of planting, changing, and growing. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_the_Little_Squash_Seed_Gayla_Scale

Carlos and the Squash Plant by Jan Stevens (1993)

Carlos’s mother warns Carlos to take a bath each evening after a long day of gardening. See what happens day after day as Carlos refuses to wash the dirt from his body, specifically from inside his ears. Printed in both English and Spanish, this story offers an inside look at Hispanic heritage. Reading level: Elementary.

xbook_cover_Carlos_and_the_Squash_Plant_Jan_Stevens

Mrs. McNosh and the Great Big Squash by Sarah Weeks (2001)

Through humorous, rhyming text, learn how Mrs. McNosh's giant squash creates problems as it grows. Grade level: Pre-K to 2.

book_cover_Ms_Mcnosh_and_the_Great_Big_Squash_Sarah_Weeks

Zora’s Zucchini by Katherine Pryor (2017)

What do you do with too much zucchini? Have a garden swap! Winner of the 2016 Growing Good Kids Book Award. Ages: 4-10 years.

book_cover_Zoras_Zucchini_Katherine_Pryor

Strawberries:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Berries

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4	CC 1: 3.2 CC 1: 4.2 CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3					PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4	SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.3

Growing Minds: Berry Parfaits

Children will learn about different types of fresh berries and practice their listening skills to follow instructions and make their own individual snack.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4		CM 3.2.3 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.5.4				PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4	SE 5: 3.2 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Berry Ink Painting

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4 AL 3.2.3 AL 3.3.3 AL 3.3.4	CC 2: 4.3	CM 3.2.3 CM 3.2.4 CM 3.4.4 CM 3.5.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4			PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4	SE 1: 4.6 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 4.3 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: Strawberry… Where Do You Come From?

Through three planting activities, students will identify the strawberry plant seeds and describe the resources needed to grow strawberries. Students will design their own pretend strawberry patch as a class and also have the opportunity to plant a real strawberry starter so that they may observe how fruit is produced by the plant.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: Getting to Know Strawberries

Through three mini-activities, students will identify the physical characteristics of strawberries. Food safety will be modeled as students observe teachers wash and cut-open the fruits in order for learners to observe the internal structure of the fruits. Fruit can then be used to create a special treat.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2	CC 2: 4.3				LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 4: 4.1

Harvest for Healthy Kids: Berries- Fresh, Frozen, Dried, and Jam

Students will explore four different forms of berries: frozen, fresh, dried, and jam. Students will use their senses to compare and contrast the different ways to preserve and prepare berries.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.1.3 AL 1.1.4 AL 1.3.3 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.1.4			CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.1.4

Strawberries:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Strawberry Activity Sheet

Students connect the dots from A to Z to complete a picture of a strawberry.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Strawberries (10:50)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month is grown in every U.S. state and every Canadian providence. It became the official Louisiana state fruit in 1980 and it’s celebrated each year at its very own festival in Ponchatoula. It’s strawberries! Join me and let’s learn a little more about what makes this fruit the berry best!

Strawberries:

Books

The Very Berry Counting Book by Jerry Pallotta’s (2017)

Children can learn to count from one to 10 in a berry appetizing way. This lovely counting book, reminiscent of old-fashioned botanical illustrations, introduces children to a variety of berries.

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

Spring is for Strawberries by Katherine Pryor (2023)

There’s nothing like the sounds and smells of the first farmers market of the year. The sweetness of fresh fruits and local vegetables permeates the air and breathes new life into our recipes just as the spring brings new life to the earth. This illustrated tale follows the budding friendship between two girls who meet at their local farmers market and reminds us that food is the great unifier of all humankind.

Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds (2007)

Cook-a-doodle-doo! By Janet Stevens (2005)

Big Brown Rooster is sick of chicken feed. So along with his friends--Turtle, Iguana, and Potbellied Pig--he sets out to make the most magnificent strawberry shortcake in the whole wide world. But there’s one problem: none of his friends knows how to cook! The team bravely forges ahead, and with Rooster’s help, they learn how to measure flour (not with a ruler) and how to beat an egg (not with a baseball bat). But can they keep Pig from gobbling up all the ingredients?

Flicka, Ricka, Dicka, and the Strawberries by Maj Lindman (2013)

Flicka, Ricka, and Dicka are going wild-strawberry picking. Mother is going to pay them for every basket they gather. When they stop at a cottage along the way, they meet Mary, her baby brother, and Mary's mother. Mary and her family are very kind, but have patches on their clothes and no milk to drink. After the girls get home and help Mother make strawberry jam, they think of a special way to spend the money they have earned.

Strawberry by Jennifer Coldrey (1988)

Photographs, drawings, and text on two levels of difficulty describe how the strawberry plant produces juicy strawberries and sends out runners to start new plants

Let’s Explore Strawberries by Jill Colella (2020)

Did you know that if you pick a green strawberry, it will never ripen and turn red? Visit a berry farm to see how strawberries grow. Then follow simple recipes to make Strawberry Smoothies and Chocolate Covered Fruit Pops.

The Fruits We Eat by Gail Gibbons (2016)

Strawberries Are Red by Petr Horacek (2001)

What color are strawberries? Bananas? Grapes? Flip the pages to find out! What happens when you mix these and other wonderful colors together? Peek in the bowl on the last spread for a tasty surprise.

I LOVE Strawberries by Shannon Anderson (2022)

Through Jolie’s comical scrapbook-style journal entries, young readers will learn how she convinces the “old people” (aka her parents) to let her grow her own strawberries. Growing strawberries is a lot of work and responsibility, but Jolie is ready with the help of her faithful rabbit Munchy! Together they find out just how delicious, rewarding, and sometimes complicated it can be to grow your own food. Creating a garden calendar and notebook, how strawberries grow, what pests to look out for in a garden, why ladybugs are helpful, and how a good gardener takes care of strawberry plants are all explained in this fun and educational story. Informational backmatter includes tips on growing strawberries, an explanation of integrated pest management for greener, safer gardening - and even tips for how to find a pick your own strawberry patch near you. This story makes a great read before a family trip to a strawberry patch, a garden store, or in a classroom talking about healthy eating and growing your own food.

The Grey Lady and the Strawberry Snatcher by Molly Bang (1996)

A wordless picture book about a woman bringing strawberries home from the market who outwits an imp trying to take them. Age: 5-8 years.

Life Cycles: Strawberries by Robin Nelson (2008)

Shows the life cycle of a strawberry plant. Nonfiction. Age: 4-7 years.

The Little Mouse, the Red Ripe Strawberry, and the Big Hungry Bear by Don and Audrey Wood (1987)

The lesson in the Woods' book is designed to introduce predicting as a reading strategy to primary students. Reading level: K-2.

book_cover_The_Little_Mouse_Don_Audrey_Wood

Sweet Corn:

Lessons and Activities

iheartcraftythings: Corn Counting Activity

Students will practice counting, recognizing numbers, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills in this corn-inspired activity.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 4.1		CM 1: 3.1 CM 1: 4.5 CM 1: 4.6

Sweet Corn:

Books

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

I Like Corn By: Robin Pickering(2000)

Describes corn-on-the-cob and several other foods made from corn.

The Popcorn Book By: Tomie dePaola(2018)

Tony likes to cook. Tiny likes to read. And both twins like to eat . . . POPCORN! So while Tiny cooks it, Tony reads about it: what popcorn is, how it's stored and prepared, legends and stories about it, and its history in Europe and North America.

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

Sweet Peppers:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Bell Peppers

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1	CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3	CM 1: 3.1 CM 1: 4.1 CM 3: 3.1 CM 3: 3.2 CM 3: 4.1	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.3 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2

Growing Minds: Tomato Salsa

Students will learn how to make fresh salsa with local ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2						PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1 PM 5: 3.1 PM 5: 3.2 PM 5: 4.2	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Seeds to Success: Pepper Problems

These three worksheets walk students through counting and identifying the number of peppers in a group, simple addition, and simple subtraction.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
		CM1 : 4.1 CM1 : 4.2 CM1 : 4.3 CM1 : 4.4 CM1 : 4.5 CM1 : 4.6 CM2 : 4.3

Sweet Peppers:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Peppers Activity Sheet

Students can count the number of peppers in a pyramid before coloring the bell peppers they see!

Sweet Peppers:

Books

Water, Weed and Wait by Edith Hope Fine and Angela Halpin (2010)

Yumbo Gumbo by Keila V. Dawson (2024)

Gumbo Joy by Robert P. Dixon Jr. (2023)

A young girl learns of the cultural significance of the pot of gumbo she cooks with her father each Sunday. It connects her with her culture, history, and heritage. As the aroma of gumbo fills the air, her father reminds her that "'Gumbo is the smell of love.'" When family members arrive for the meal, it's a joyful celebration of family, love, and culture.

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds (2007)

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

Green is a Chile Pepper: A Book of Colors by Roseanne Greenfield Thong (2014)

Featured objects are Latino in origin, and all are universal in appeal. With rich, boisterous illustrations, fun-to-read rhyming text, and an informative glossary, this playful concept book will reinforce the colors found in every child’s day! Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Green_is_a_Chile_Pepper_Roseanne_Thong

Grandma’s Gumbo by Deborah Kadair (2003)

Bell peppers, shrimp, oysters, onions, and okra — all have an important place in gumbo. Reading level: Elementary.

book_cover_Grandmas_Gumbo_Deborah_Kadair

Sweet Potatoes:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Sweet Potatoes

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1		CM 3: 3.3 CM 3: 3.4 CM 3: 4.3 CM 3: 4.4	CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.5 CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.3 CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.3 CS 3: 3.6 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.3 CS 3: 4.5 CS 3: 4.6			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2

Growing Minds: Sweet Potato Exploration

Children use their sense to explore sweet potatoes and gain confidence in trying new vegetables. Students learn to identify a new vegetable. Students associate vegetables and fruits with a dynamic activity and positive experience.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 4.1			PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2

Grow It, Try It, Like It!: Sweet Potato Hill

Through the activities in this Grow It, Try It, Like It! chapter, children are invited to touch, smell, feel, and taste sweet potatoes. Children also learn how sweet potatoes are grown. Planting activities help children connect the delicious food choices at the table with the farm or school garden.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1.2.3 AL 1.3.3 AL 1.2.4 AL 1.3.4 AL 2.1.3 AL 2.2.3 AL 2.2.4 AL 2.1.4	CC 1: 3.6 CC 1: 4.5 CC 2: 3.3 CC 2: 4.3 CC 3: 3.4 CC 3: 4.3 CC 3: 4.4 CC 4: 3.1 CC 4: 4.1	CM 1.2.3 CM 1.3.3 CM 1.2.4 CM 1.3.4	CS 1.1.3 CS 1.1.4 CS 1.3.3 CS 1.3.4		LL 1: 3.1 LL 1: 3.6 LL 1: 3.9 LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 3.2 LL 2: 4.2	PD 2.1.3 PD 2.2.3 PD 2.1.4 PD 2.2.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Harvest for Healthy Kids: One Potato, Two Potato, Sweet Potato, Plain Potato

In this exploratory lesson, students are invited to compare sweet potatoes and regular potatoes. Students will observe external and internal physical differences as well as taste differences between the two. This lesson can be easily adapted to incorporate different varieties of potatoes, both sweet and not. Sweet Potato Pictures Potato Pictures

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2			CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Georgia Harvest of the Month: Grow Your Own Sweet Potato Vine!

This activity allows students to observe how a sweet potato vine grows. Students are able to make predictions about how the plant will grown and the speed with which that growth will occur. This is a long-term project in which students are encouraged to make predictions and record their observations as time passes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2			CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.7		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Pre-K Pages: Sprouting Sweet Potatoes

Directions on how to sprout sweet potatoes.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 4: 4.2			CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.4 CS 1: 4.5 CS 1: 4.7 CS3: 4.1 CS3: 4.3 CS3: 4.6

Sweet Potatoes:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Sweet Potatoes Activity Sheet

Have students count and then connect amounts of sweet potatoes to the correct number.

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Sweet Potatoes (10:12)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was grown by our nation’s first president, George Washington. It’s a root but its leaves are also edible. Have you guessed it? It’s sweet potatoes! Now let’s learn a little bit more about the sweet potato, a vegetable with a history as colorful as its bright orange flesh.

Sweet Potatoes:

Books

Can’t Nobody Make a Sweet Potato Pie Like Our Mama! by Rose McGee (2023)

Marie and Landon bicker about many things, but on one topic they agree: their grandmother, "Mama," makes the best sweet potato pies. Those pies are so tasty, and their grandmother is so good at so many things. The twins sometimes wonder: Does Mama have superpowers?

Potato Joe by Keith Baker (2008)

This fresh adaptation of the classic "One Potato, Two Potato" nursery rhyme is a counting adventure and rollicking good time rolled into one. Spunky leader Potato Joe and his nine spuds pals count up to ten and back down again, all while playing games and meeting up with other garden friends.

Sweet Potato Pie by Kathleen D. Lindsey (2008)

During a drought in the early 1900s, a large, loving African American family finds a delicious way to earn the money they need to save their family farm.

The Gigantic Sweet Potato, by Dianne Casas (2010)

After weeks of hard work and tending to her garden, it was finally time for Ma Farmer to harvest her sweet potato and make some sweet potato pie; but when she tried to pull the tasty vegetable from the ground, it wouldn’t budge. With the help of her husband and some friendly farm animals, they finally pull a gigantic sweet potato from the ground and then all enjoy the sweet potato pie Ma Farmer prepares. This story teaches the importance of team work, patience, and eating healthy, local food!

I Yam a Donkey by Cece Bell (2015)

“I yam a donkey!” the donkey proclaims. Unfortunately the donkey’s audience happens to be a yam, and one who is particular about sloppy pronunciation and poor grammar. See the following for ideas that can be used with this book: https://www.floridamediaed.org/uploads/6/1/4/2/61420659/i_yam_a_donkey.pdf ALA Notable Children's Book Award 2016.

In the Garden with Dr. Carver by Susan Grigsby (2008)

Sally tells about a visit by Dr. George Washington Carver to her Alabama town and school. Dr. Carver teaches students about gardening, including the importance of respecting nature, and plant a school “kitchen” garden of their own. At the school picnic, they share Dr. Carver’s sweet-potato-flour bread. Historical-fiction.

Little Chef by Matt Stine & Elisabeth Weinberg (2018)

A little girl prepares to make her grandmother’s favorite meal, which includes “Grandma’s Super Special Smashed Sweet Potatoes.”

Little Sweet Potato by Amy Bloom (2012)

When Little Sweet Potato leaves the potato patch, he has a hard time find a new home that will welcome him.

Tomatoes:

Lessons and Activities

Louisiana Farm to ECE: Tomatoes

- - 4 classroom activities
  - 4 taste test recipe suggestions
  - 4 cafeteria recipe suggestions
  - Gardening tips
  - Send home recipes and materials

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1						PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1 PM 4: 4.2

Growing Minds: Tomato Salsa

Students will learn how to make fresh salsa with local ingredients.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2						PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 4.1 PM 5: 3.1 PM 5: 3.2 PM 5: 4.2	SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2 SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Growing Minds: Tomato Exploration

Through this exploration lesson, students will gain a familiarity of different tomato varieties. Students will come to understand that different varieties of the same produce type can look and taste very different.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2		CM 2: 4.2			LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2

Florida Tomatoes: Preschool Tomato Activities

This resource contains tomato-focused activities that reinforce math, science, ELA, health, and social studies skills for preschool students.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2 AL 2: 4.3		CM 1: 4.4	CS 1: 4.1 CS 1: 4.2		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2 LL 5: 4.4	PM 4: 4.2

Tomatoes:

Videos and Other Resources

Pennsylvania Harvest of the Month: Tomato Activity Sheet

Students can color a playful tomato scene. How many tomatoes can you find?

Louisiana Harvest of the Month Video Series: Tomatoes (10:08)

This month’s Louisiana Harvest of the Month was legally designated as a vegetable over a 100 years ago in the United States; although, it is botanically classified as a fruit. Now it is the third most popular vegetable in the United States. It’s tomatoes! No matter how you slice it, the tomato is a delicious treat and so much fun to grow!

Tomatoes:

Books

Messy McFarlen’s Tomato Garden by Barry Brandon Waldo & Scott Diagre (2025)

Nobody believes Messy McFarlen can grow anything worthwhile—especially not his neighbor Pristina Purrfect and her cat, Sour Puss. But with his muddy pup, a pocket full of tomato seeds, and a whole lot of heart, Messy is about to sprout something magical—and prove that the most unlikely gardener can grow the most amazing garden of all.

Tomatoes Grow on a Vine by Mari Schuh (2011)

Simple text and photographs describe how tomatoes grow on vines.

Strega Nona and Her Tomatoes by Tomie dePaola (2017)

Strega Nona is excited! The tomatoes in her garden are ripe, and she picks enough to fill a basket. She wants to give twenty-four tomatoes to the convent, and counts them out on the kitchen table. She is in the middle of counting when Signora Goat starts to eat the laundry. While Strega Nona is outside, Big Anthony sees the tomatoes and wants to help. Poor Big Anthony. He puts the tomatoes back in the basket!

Alien Tomato by Kristen Schroeder (2020))

When a mysterious red orb appears one day, the vegetables aren’t sure what to make of it. They decide that it must be an alien tomato! They name her Allie and try to make her feel as welcome as possible. But Gopher isn’t convinced. He’s sure it’s just a ball. This delightfully silly tale and its equally hilarious art are a perfect fit for gardeners and sci-fi fans alike.

Fruit Bowl by Mark Hoffmann (2018)

Who belongs in the fruit bowl? Apples, check. Blueberries, check. Tomato, che-- Wait, what?! Tomato wants to join the other fruits, but does he belong? The perfect mix of botany and a bunch of bananas!

Tomatoes for Neela by Padma Lakshmi (2021)

Neela loves cooking with her amma and writing down the recipes in her notebook. It makes her feel closer to her paati who lives far away in India. On Saturdays, Neela and Amma go to the green market and today they are buying tomatoes to make Paati's famous sauce. But first, Neela needs to learn about all the different kinds of tomatoes they can pick from. And as Neela and Amma cook together, they find a way for Paati to share in both the love and the flavors of the day.

PAR-TAY!: Dance of the Veggies (And Their Friends) by Eloise Greenfield (2024)

My First Book of Growing Food by Duopress Labs (2021)

My First Book of Growing Food is a beautiful introduction for babies and toddlers to the benefits of growing food, helping them to develop a connection with the natural world.

Cheers for a Dozen Ears by Felicia Sanzari Chernesky (2014

Chicks and Salsa by Aaron Reynolds (2007)

Let’s Explore Tomatoes! by Jill Colella (2021)

Ripe, juicy tomatoes are a delicious summer treat! Young readers will follow how tomatoes are grown and harvested, and they'll learn how to make tomato sauce in this engaging title that promotes food literacy.

Taste the World! Tomato by World Book (2020)

Did you know that many people once believed that tomatoes were poisonous? And that in German folklore certain plants related to tomatoes were believed to be used by witches to produce werewolves? Or that a tomato-throwing festival is held every year in Spain? You'll learn this and more in World Book's Taste the World! Tomato. Along the way, you'll find fun food facts and learn how to make some tasty recipes!

1 Big Salad: A Delicious Counting Book by Juana Medina (2016)

Bear and Bunny Grow Tomatoes by Bruce Koscielniak (1993)

A hard-working bear and a lazy bunny both plant tomatoes in their gardens, with quite different results

Runaway Tomato by Kim Cooley Reeder (2014)

When a giant tomato breaks loose at the top of a hill, it takes every tractor, fire engine, and helicopter to stop it. Told in catchy rhyme, culminating in a jam-packed gate-fold spread of the town's Tomato Festival. What will happen when it rains on all those giant seeds? One giant surprise. Ages: 3-5 years.

book_cover_Runaway_Tomato_Kim_Cooley_Reeder

First Tomato by Rosemary Wells (1992)

On a cold winter day, Claire takes a trip to the Bunny Planet where it’s always summer and the tomatoes are just starting to get ripe. Grade level: 1-2.

Big Red and the Terrible Tomato Hornworm by Cynthia Wylie (2018)

Big Red starts planting tomatoes and discovers that he’ll have to battle hornworms to keep his tomatoes healthy and safe. In the end, he has to use his newfound gardening knowledge and peacemaking skills to work with the hornworms and save his tomatoes. Ages: 4-8 years.

book_cover_Big_Red_and_the_Terrible_Tomato_Hornworm_Cynthia_Wylie

Turnip:

Lessons and Activities

Georgia Organics: Eat a Rainbow Lesson Set

Through these seven short lessons, students will celebrate the diversity of colors found in food while learning about why "eating a rainbow" is a healthy choice for our bodies.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 3.2.3 AL 3.2.4		CM 3.1.3 CM 3.1.4		CSS 2.1.3 CSS 2.1.4		PD 1.1.3 PD 1.1.4 PD 3.2.3 PD 3.2.4

Iowa Farm to School & Early Care: Root Crops

Lead students through an exciting review of the four major parts of plants and brainstorm examples of each part we might find on our dinner plates with this food system lesson.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development

Turnip:

Books

The Enormous Turnip by Katie Daynes (2014)

A cumulative tale about a farmer who needs the help of his wife, son, dog, cat, and bird to pull an enormous turnip out of the ground.

The Gigantic Turnip by Aleksei Tolstoy (2005)

How many people (and animals!) will it take to pull up the massive turnip from the garden? A humorous retelling of the well-loved Russian tale, this cumulative counting tale celebrates cooperation, teamwork and the joys of gardening.

Grandma Lena’s Big Ol’ Turnip by Denia Lewis Hester (2005)

General Lessons & Activities:

Lessons and Activities

Growing Minds: Garden Plot Crackers

Making their own snack, children will prepare, design, and make a "garden plot" using various local produce.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 3.2 AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 4: 3.1 AL 4: 4.1	CC 3: 3.3 CC 3: 3.4 CC 3: 4.3 CC 3: 4.4					PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1	SE 3: 3.1 SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.1 SE 3: 4.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.3

Growing Minds: Vegetable Castles

Children become comfortable with tasting new foods as they learn about and how to to identify different types of local fruits and vegetables.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
						PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1	SE 2: 3.1 SE 2: 4.1 SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.3

Growing Minds: Garden Color Hunt

Children explore the garden through close observation. They begin to recognize different hues and tones of colors by looking closely at plants, soil, and garden surroundings.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 4.1			CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.6 CS 1: 3.7 CS 1: 3.8 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.6				SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 4.3

Growing Minds: Weeding the Garden

Children will recall information about plants and add to their understanding of what plants need to grow. In the garden, children will use pictures (or sample plants) and follow instructions to identify weeds and pull them. Children will work in teams to sort, count, and classify their weeds.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.3 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.3 AL 3: 3.2 AL 3: 3.4 AL 3: 4.1 AL 3: 4.4		CM 1: 3.1 CM 1: 3.7 CM 1: 4.1 CM 1: 4.7 CM 2: 3.2 CM 2: 4.2 CM 3: 3.1 CM 3: 3.2 CM 3: 4.1 CM 3: 4.2	CS 1: 3.2 CS 1: 3.3 CS 1: 3.4 CS 1: 3.5 CS 1: 4.2 CS 1: 4.3 CS 1: 4.3 CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.2 CS 3: 3.3 CS 3: 3.6 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.2 CS 3: 4.3 CS 3: 4.6			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2	SE 5: 3.1 SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 4.2

Growing Minds: Watering the Garden

Students will learn that plants need water just like people and animals need water. They will explore the difference between dry and wet soil, and how plants in gardens get the water they need.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
			CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.6 CS 3: 4.6 CS 3: 4.1 CS 4: 3.1 CS 4: 4.1		LL 2: 3.2 LL 2: 4.2 LL 4: 3.1 LL 4: 3.2 LL 4: 3.6 LL 4: 4.1 LL 4: 4.2 LL 4: 4.6 LL 4: 4.7

Growing Minds: What Plants Need

Invited children into an outdoor garden space to listen and learn about what plants need to survive. Through story telling and dance, students will explain how plants live and grow!

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 4.1	CC 1: 3.2 CC 1: 4.2 CC 3: 3.1 CC 3: 3.3 CC 3: 3.4 CC 3: 4.1 CC 3: 4.4		CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 4.1		LL 2: 3.2 LL 2: 4.2 LL 4: 3.1 LL 4: 3.2 LL 4: 3.6 LL 4: 4.1 LL 4: 4.2 LL 4: 4.6 LL 4: 4.7

Growing Minds: Fruit & Veggie Alphabet Border

Children gain knowledge and interest in new fruits and vegetables as they read Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert Students learn to identify new fruits and vegetables as they work together to create an alphabet border for their classroom.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
	CC 1: 3.2 CC 1: 4.2				LL 5: 3.4 LL 5: 4.5 LL 6: 3.3 LL 6: 3.4 LL 6: 4.4	PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2

Growing Minds: Cooking Play

Children learn about a variety of cooking tools including plastic knives, measuring spoons and cups, whisks and mixing spoons. Through a fun, dynamic learning environment children explore how to use the tools successfully.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 4.1		CM 3: 3.3 CM 3; 3.4 CM 3: 4.3 CM 3: 4.4				PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2	SE 5: 3.3 SE 5: 3.4 SE 5: 4.2 SE 5: 4.3

Growing Minds: Insects in the Garden

Introduce students to insects and other bugs they will find in the garden, their characteristics, and how they affect plants. Teach students to observe (rather than harm) living things in the garden and natural environment.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 3.1 AL 1: 3.2 AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 3.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2			CS 3: 3.1 CS 3: 3.4 CS 3: 3.6 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.4 CS 3: 4.6				SE 1: 3.4 SE 1: 4.6 SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 4.2

Growing Minds: Roots and Shoots

In this lesson, students explore where different vegetables grow in a garden and how they taste.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 2: 3.1 AL 2: 4.1 AL 4: 3.2 AL 4: 4.2			CS 1: 3.1 CS 1: 4.1 CS 3: 3.2 CS 3: 4.2			PM 2: 3.1 PM 2: 3.2 PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2 PM 4: 3.1 PM 4: 3.2 PM 4: 4.1	SE 2: 3.1 SE 2: 4.1 SE 3: 3.1 SE 3: 3.2 SE 3: 3.3 SE 3: 4.1 SE 3: 4.2 SE 3: 4.3 SE 4: 3.2 SE 4: 4.2

Seeds to Success: Nature Color Hunt and Sort

In this lesson, students are able to engage with their natural environment to explore the presence of colors and the various ways in which they are present in green spaces.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2		CM 1: 4.1 CM 1: 4.4 CM 2: 4.2	CS 1: 4.6 CS 3: 4.1 CS 3: 4.4 CS 4: 4.3	CSS 5: 4.3	LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.4		SE 1: 4.6 SE 3: 4.3 SE 5: 4.1 SE 5: 4.2

Growing Minds: Weeding the Garden

Students will use pictures or sample plants and follow instructions to identify and remove weeds from the garden. Student can then work collaboratively to sort, count, and classify the types of weeds removed from their community garden

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2		CM 1: 4.1 CM 2: 4.2	CS 3: 4.1		LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6	PM 2: 4.1 PM 2: 4.2

Growing Minds: Vegetable Crowns

As students construct and customize vegetable crowns, they have the chance to identify, develop interest, and knowledge in new fruits and vegetables. This is a great opportunity for students to share stories of produce they’ve tried in the past and produce they are interested in sampling in the future.

Louisiana Student Standards

Approaches to Learning	Creative Thinking and Expression	Math	Science	Social Studies	Language and Literacy Development	Physical Well-being and Motor Development	Social-Emotional Development
AL 1: 4.1 AL 1: 4.2 AL 2: 4.1 AL 2: 4.2	AL 2: 4.3				LL 1: 4.1 LL 1: 4.2 LL 1: 4.3 LL 1: 4.4 LL 1: 4.5 LL 1: 4.6 LL 2: 4.2	PM 2: 4.1

General Lessons & Activities:

Books

Wiggling Worms at Work: A Hands-On Science Book About How Worms Help the Environment for Kids by Wendy Pfeffer (2003)

Crawling through the dirt, worms are hard at work. Worms help the fruit and vegetables we eat by loosening the soil and feeding the plants. Read and find out about these wiggling wonders!

Harriet’s Hungry Worms by Samantha Smith (2023)

Harriet’s nine-hundred-and-eighty-three hungry worms live in a shady corner of her backyard in a big, green box. They spend their days munching on anything from Aunt Tilda’s herbal teabags to the sports pages of Uncle Sam’s paper. Harriet watches and waits, eventually deciding the worms are ‘so BORING.’ Until one day, the worms leave Harriet a big surprise … worm wee! Packed with worm facts, Harriet’s Hungry Worms is the ideal companion for worm warriors and curious composters keen to roll their sleeves up and put their kitchen food scraps to good use.

Eat Your Colors by Amanda Miller (2016)

Fun, colorful photos introduce little ones to the basics of good nutrition.

Gourmet Rainbow by Christina Sicoli, Caitlin Renee Steuer, and BlueMilk Studio Inc. (2023)

Go beyond typical baby food and toddler snacks like sweet potatoes by exploring out-of-the-ordinary fruit, vegetables, and meats. A tomato or simple lemons come alive with each rhyme, making Gourmet Rainbow one of the baby essentials when it comes to newborn toys or infant toys.

Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter by Eugenie Doyle (2016)

A captivating exploration of how a family gets a farm ready for the snow of winter, Sleep Tight Farm lyrically connects each growing season to the preparations at the very end of the farm year. This beautiful and informative book paints a fascinating picture of what winter means to the farm year and to the family that shares its seasons, from spring’s new growth, summer’s heat, and fall’s bounty to winter’s well-earned rest. All year long the farm has worked to shelter us, feed us, keep us warm, and now it’s time to sleep.

Fresh-Picked Poetry: A Day at the Farmers’ Market by Michelle Schaub (2020)

It’s market day. Hooray, hooray! This collection of poems takes young readers to a day at an urban farmers’ market. Who to see, what to eat, and how produce is grown–it’s all so exciting, fresh, and delicious. Readers are invited to peruse the stands and inspect vendors’ wares with poems like “Farmer Greg’s Free-Range Eggs,” “Summer Checklist,” and “Necessary Mess.” Bright and vibrant, this is the perfect guide for little ones to take with them on marketing day to inspire literacy and healthy eating.

Seed School: Growing Up Amazing by Joan Holub (2018)

Welcome to the wondrous world of seeds! Just like people, seeds come in all shapes and sizes. In Seed School by Joan Holub, you’ll meet the charming cast of characters who–with the help of soil, water, and sunshine–grow into vibrant fruits, vegetables, and flowers. While some of the seeds friends seem to sprout and grow up in just one season, one odd-looking seed with a cap takes many years to become to strong oak he was destined to be. Sakshi Mangal’s delightful illustrations bring this whimsical store about friendship, diversity, and the natural world that surrounds us to life. Grow on!

Right This Very Minute: A Table-to-Farm Book About Food and Farming by Lisl H. Detlefsen (2021)

What’s that you say? You’re hungry? Right this very minute? Then you need a farmer. You have the stories of so many right here on your table! This delicious celebration of food and farming is sure to inspire readers of all ages to learn more about where their food comes from – right this very minute!

We Are the Gardeners by Joanna Gaines (2019)

Joanna Gaines and the kids chronicle the adventures of starting their own family garden. From their failed endeavors, obstacles to overcome (bunnies that eat everything), and all of the knowledge they gain along the way, the Gaines family shares how they learned to grow a happy, successful garden.

One Little Lot: The 1-2-3s of an Urban Garden by Diane C. Mullen (2025)

Count all the ways (one to ten) an urban community unites to clean up an abandoned lot. From building planter boxes to pulling weeds to planting seeds, everyone works together to transform the lot into a bountiful vegetable garden. As the garden grows, strangers become friends, eventually sharing in a special feast with the harvest they grew.

Rooftop Garden by Danna Smith (2022)

A group of city friends work diligently together to grow herbs and vegetables in a rooftop garden. Set to a foot-tappin’ original tune, this rhythmic, rhyming story will have kids singing enthusiastically about the six stages of plant growth. The story concludes with a summer harvest and feast that celebrates the gardeners’ commitment.”

Fruits and Vegetables (Read & Spot) by Joli Hannah (2024)

In this charming story, Bella takes her friend Sam on a tour of her family’s farm, where they learn all about growing fruits and vegetables. Through their journey, readers will be introduced to various crops and how they are grown, as well as the different animals that share the farm. Along the way, the book encourages readers to participate in a search-and-find game, keeping them engaged and interested in the story.

Mrs. Peanuckle’s Vegetable Alphabet by Mrs. Peanuckle (2017)

Mrs. Peanuckle’s Vegetable Alphabet introduces babies and toddlers to a colorful variety of vegetables, from asparagus to zucchini. Perfect to read aloud, this vegetable buffet will delight children and parents alike with its yummy vegetable facts and vibrant illustrations.

Louisiana Student Standards

Math	Science	English Language Arts	Social Studies	Health	Art
			RI.4.9 SL.4.1	4th Grade 7-E-2.2

There’s No Such Thing as Vegetables by Kyle Lukoff (2024)

Chester plans to have a salad for lunch, but in order to do that, he'll need vegetables. So, off he goes to the community garden, except he quickly learns that he won't be dressing a salad anytime soon. Instead, the vegetables start dressing him down. According to them, "vegetables" don't exist!

Scarlette Beane by Karen Wallace (2000)

Having been born with a bright red face and green fingertips, her parents know that there is something unique about their daughter, Scarlette, and so aren't too surprised when magical things start to happen in their vegetable garden.

Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert (2003)

It’s spring, and time to plant all the colors of the rainbow!

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown (2009)

The story of one boy’s dream, and how one person’s efforts can change the world! This story is based on the High Line railroad in New York City, which has been converted into a city park.

Water, Weed, and Wait by Edith Hope Fine and Angela Halpin (2010)

When Miss Marigold challenges the kids at Pepper Lane Elementary to turn an unpromising patch of their schoolyard into a garden full of fruits, flowers, and vegetables, they know they'll need all the help they can get. Soon everyone in the community is lending a hand—including an unlikely neighbor with a soft spot for gardening—and it isn't long before peppers, zuccchini, sugar peas, snapdragons, zinnias, and much more are growing and blooming.

The Seed Song by Judy Saksie (1995)

A simple song about seeds illustrated with beautiful cut paper images.

Eating the Alphabet by Lois Ehlert (1996)

While teaching upper- and lowercase letters to preschoolers, Ehlert introduces fruits and vegetables from around the world.

Sip, Slurp, Soup, Soup, Caldo, Caldo, Caldo by Diane Gonzales Bertrand (2008)

On rainy Sunday mornings when Mamá pulls out her tall, dark soup pot with tiny white spots, we know it will be a caldo day. The kids know they are in for a special treat when Mamá begins preparing her delicious beef vegetable soup!

Insects Are My Life by Megan Mcdonald (1997)

Amanda Frankenstein's enthusiasm for insects annoys family and friends and definitely sets her apart, until she meets a girl named Maggie, who is crazy for reptiles

The Ugly Vegetables by Grace Lin (2001)

In this charming story about celebrating differences a Chinese-American girl wishes for a garden of bright flowers instead of one full of bumpy, ugly, vegetables.

How a Seed Grows by Helene J. Jordan (2015)

This is a clear and appealing environmental science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. Plus it includes a find out more activity section with a simple experiment encouraging kids to discover what a seed needs to grow.

Fresh Delicious Poems from the Farmers’ Market by Irene Latham (2016)

In these vivid poems, blueberries are “flavor-filled fireworks,” cucumbers are “a fleet of green submarines in a wicker sea,” lettuce tastes like “butter and pepper and salt,” but sometimes “I crunch into a leaf the very same flavor as rain.” The unexpected, ingenious imagery and enticing artwork in this collection will inspire the imaginations of young readers, and show how poetry can be as fresh and delicious as the farmers’ market produce it celebrates.

Monarch Butterfly by Gail Gibbons (1989)

Follow the transformation from a tiny white egg laid on a leaf to a brilliantly colored butterfly in this kid-friendly introduction to metamorphosis.

Ladybugs by Gail Gibbons (2013)

Follow a ladybug through the four stages of its development from egg to adult, and learn about its behavior and habitat—plus, how little ladybugs help protect crops by eating harmful insects. Bright illustrations and an easy-to-read text make this ideal for young readers studying the natural world.

Ladybugs (Little Critters) by Lisa Amstutz (2016)

Ladybugs can be red with black spots. But did you know they can have other colors? Appeal to young children's fascination with nature with delightfully simple, fun text and bright, close-up photos.

Are You A Butterfly? by Judy Allen (2003)

Caterpillar, chrysalis, butterfly; follow the metamorphosis of this familiar backyard creature as it evolves into a delicate flying insect.

Are You A Ladybug? by Judy Allen (2003)

This accessible book is perfect for reading aloud and tells young readers how they would experience life if they were a ladybug.

Plants Feed Me! By Lizzy Rockwell (2015)

Sink your teeth into the plants that feed the world—flowers, fruits, seeds, and all! With its simple text and bright, appealing illustrations, this book is perfect for young readers learning about where their food comes from.

Little Pea by Amy Krouse Rosenthal (2005)

If Little Pea doesn't eat all of his sweets, there will be no vegetables for dessert! What's a young pea to do? A delightful twist on a classic parent predicament, children will enjoy the unique tale and find themselves relating with Little Peamore than expected.

What Grew in Larry’s Garden by Laura Alary (2020)

A girl and her neighbor grow a community from their garden. Grace thinks Larry's garden is one of the wonders of the world. In his tiny backyard next door to hers, Larry grows the most extraordinary vegetables. Grace loves helping him --- watering and weeding, planting and pruning, hoeing and harvesting. And whenever there's a problem --- like bugs burrowing into the carrots or slugs chewing the lettuce --- Grace and Larry solve it together. Grace soon learns that Larry has big plans for the vegetables in his special garden. And when that garden faces its biggest problem yet, Grace follows Larry's example to find the perfect solution

The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art by Cathy James (2015)

Packed with garden-based activities that promote science, math, reading, writing, imaginative play, and arts and crafts, The Garden Classroom offers a whole year of outdoor play and learning ideas—however big or small your garden.

And The Good Brown Earth by Kathy Henderson (2008)

Gram and Joe love to spend time together taking care of the vegetable patch, but it takes a lot of patience. There’s digging time, planting time, weeding time, watering time, even thinking time. Meanwhile, the seasons change, and while Gram does things her way, Joe does things his way. But come harvest, each will find wondrous surprises, thanks to the benevolence of the good brown earth.

Yucky Worms by Vivian French (2012)

Who would want to be friends with a wiggly, slimy worm? You can’t even tell which end is which! But there’s more to these lowly creatures than meets the eye. Kids are invited to find out where worms live, see how they move, and understand why gardeners consider them friends with the help of this humorous and informative look at an unappreciated — and fascinating — creature.

Alice Waters Cooks Up a Food Revolution by Diane Stanley (2022)

A delicious nonfiction picture book biography about pioneering chef Alice Waters who kickstarted the organic food movement.

The Little Gardener: Helping Children Connect with the Natural World by Julie Cerny (2020)

The Little Gardener is an engaging illustrated guide for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and educators who want to help children explore the natural world through gardening. Part how–to, part teaching tool, and part inspiration, The Little Gardener is a thoughtful combination of detailed instructions, tips, anecdotes, and seasonal activities designed to connect gardeners to natural systems.

Counting in the Garden by Emily Hruby (2016)

Young children will love finding and counting all of the garden treats. Every other page introduces a new plant or animal into the mix until ultimately all twelve additions are featured together in the final, abundantly overgrown garden

Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth by Mary Siddals (2014)

Teach kids to compost and help them develop life-long habits to protect the Earth. From apple cores to zinnia heads, readers will discover the best ingredients for a successful compost pile in this fun picture book.

Farming by Gail Gibbons (2019)

Farms are busy places throughout the year. Animals are born, fields are plowed and planted, and crops are harvested. The winters are quiet, but there are always chores to be done, and soon spring will come again. This new edition of a popular favorite has been vetted by an agricultural scientist and includes updated farming procedures and shows new safety equipment for family farms.

A Farmer’s Life for Me by Jan Dobbins (2013)

A busy family and their friends spend a day working and playing on the farm. From milking the cows in the morning to closing the gate at night, learn about a day in the life of a farming family.

Strega Nona’s Harvest by Tomie dePaola (2012)

In this humorous tale, Strega Nona attempts to teach Big Anthony about gardening and the importance of order. But when Big Anthony does not follow her directions and tries to use her growing spell, his small vegetable patch turns into an unruly jungle! What will they do with all the extra vegetables?

Plant a Little Seed by Bonnie Christensen (2012)

With a little help from a watering can, bright sunlight, and a lot of patience, two friends plant seeds in their community garden and watch how they grow. Slowly, the seeds turn into sprouts, which grow into stems, followed by leaves and buds! The garden will soon be teeming with life and ready for a harvest season celebration. But until then, the children water and wait and dream

It’s Our Garden: From Seeds to Harvest in a School Garden by George Ancona (2015)

Want to grow what you eat and eat what you grow? Visit this lively, flourishing school-and-community garden and be inspired to cultivate your own. Part celebration, part simple how-to, this close-up look at a vibrant garden and its enthusiastic gardeners is blooming with photos that will have readers ready to roll up their sleeves and dig in.

Rah, Rah, Radishes!: A Vegetable Chant by April Pulley Sayre (2014)

Know anyone who doesn’t like veggies? Here is a book that's sure to change their hungry minds! With raucous, rhyming text, Rah, Rah, Radishes! celebrates fresh vegetables, nature’s bright colors, and the joy of healthy eating. The book’s interactive spirit encourages kids to join in on the read-aloud fun, and little ones won't be able to resist the book’s vibrant photographs—they’re a feast for the eyes!

Grow! Raise! Catch!: How We Get Our Food by Shelley Rotner (2017)

Farmers and fishermen show off their bounty in this celebration of agriculture and healthy eating! Bright, enticing photographs of plants, animals, and the people who work to raise them are paired with an accessible text explaining the different kinds of farms that produce our food. Fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, meat, eggs, and fish are represented, with notes on where and how they grow, and what we make from them. Grow! Raise! Catch! offers a breakdown of the farm-to-table process perfect for preschoolers and kindergarten students. Includes a glossary of important terms introduced in the text, and an author's note on how eating fresh foods helps you stay healthy.

Before We Eat: From Farm to Table by Pat Brisson (2014)

Before we eat, many people must work very hard―planting grain, catching fish, tending animals, and filling crates. In this book, vibrantly illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Mary Azarian, readers find out what must happen before food can get to our table to nourish our bodies and spirits.

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Blueberries:

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