Farmers’ Markets with Kids: 4 Tips
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Most city farmers’ markets will be open this weekend, if they aren’t already. I, for one am excited and ready to shop.
Visiting a farmers’ market is not only a great way to support your local farmers and enjoy fresh produce, but it also makes for a great weekend outing with the kids. Today, many markets have a little something for everyone, including farm fun, cooking tents and buskers for the kids. We’ve been visiting markets since my boys were out of their strollers, and here are some tips on what made the outings more enjoyable for us:
- Take your time. The farmer’s market is not a place to rush through. Walk the stalls at a leisurely pace and be sure to point out any new items that have popped up since the last time your family was there. Better yet, ask your kids to show you what new and interesting things they see.
- Carry cash. The farmers’ market is not a place to use your debit or credit card. Be sure to bring some cash, and give some to your little shoppers for their own purchases. Encourage them to spend their money on the produce that is most appealing to them. The results are sure to amuse the entire family.
- Go green. Banish plastic bags and be sure to bring re-usable totes. If you plan on making the farmers’ market a frequent destination for your family, encourage your children’s interest by providing them with their own shopping bags. Consider allowing them to personalize their bags with names and decorations before leaving home.
- Experiment. Try new things! Look for a new fruit or vegetable that you or your children haven’t tried before and create a meal or a snack using this mysterious ingredient. If you have school-age kids, create an Iron Chef-style competition for the entire family by creating two teams who will try to make the best meal or snack using a seasonal item picked up at the market.
Do you and your family frequent farmers’ markets? Which ones do you like best?
