September is in full swing,
with lots of activities happening at Pathfinder Village, our local schools, and
within our home communities. With all the hustle and bustle at this time
of the year, it’s important to eat fresh, nutritious fruits and veggies to keep
you and your family members healthy. That’s where Pathfinder Produce can
be of help!
We hope you will stop by
this Thursday afternoon at the Pathfinder Village Commons, from 1 to 5 p.m. to
check out the great variety of produce at our weekly market.
Competitively priced, tasty, and served up by a great staff … what’s not to
love about our community market!
Below, Pathfinder School’s
Director of Education Maura Iorio explores the educational aspects of food for
youngsters. Enjoy!
***
Who says you can't play
with your food?
Fruits and vegetables
are essential to a healthy diet, but they can help young developing minds in
other ways, too! Below, we have put together a list of fruit and veggie packed
activities that can help children build fine and gross motor skills. Plus, when
children are able to interact with fruits and veggies, and be a part of the
preparation process, they are more likely to turn to and try these
nutrient-dense foods. It's a win-win!
·
Corn Shucking!
Sneaking in one last BBQ
before fall settles in? Have the kiddos help out by shucking ears of corn! This
simple activity builds hand strength and helps to develop fine motor
skills. (Plus, it’s a great way for older kids to discuss seed growth).
·
Sensory Bins!
Sensory bins are one of
our absolute essential items in the classroom. They are great ways to help
children interact with different textures, utilize hand-eye coordination, build
fine motor skills, and learn self-calming techniques. Take a bin, or any similar
container, and fill it with dried peas or beans. Hide various items in it for
children to find, or give them spoons and measuring cups to explore with.
This link for a Peas and
Carrots Alphabet Bin from The Letters of Literacy is a great way to combine
vegetables, sensory play, and academics!
·
Get Your Science On!
Grab a variety of fresh
fruits and veggies and set up your very own science lab at home! Let your child
explore how each fruit and vegetable feels, smells, looks (inside and out!),
and tastes. For older kids, do some research on different types of
botanical facts, like how scientists differentiate between fruits and
vegetables.
·
Apple Picking
Going apple picking is
one of our favorite things to do in the fall. But did you know it's also a
great vestibular and proprioceptive activity, too? In other words, kids get a
wealth of sensory input, utilize lots of motor planning, and get to practice
important skills like balance. Plus, there's all the delicious baked goods you
can make with apples!
We hope you have fun
testing out some of these activities! Good luck to all the kiddos who are
settling into school routines this week. J
Maura (and Lori)
