Combine books and food for fun: Kiwifruit
Print
EmailCombine kiwifruit themed recipes with a book and activity to create interest for children in the kitchen.
Have you tried the juicy, bright green fruit protected by its fuzzy brown skin? If you have not introduced yourself or your children to kiwifruit, originally known as Chinese gooseberries, December 21 is the perfect day to do so. The first day of winter is also National Kiwifruit Day. Select kiwifruit that is slightly firm. The green fruit can be enjoyed by peeling the fuzzy skin or can be eaten with the skin on to increase fiber. Either way, the green fruit is a good source of fiber, potassium and vitamins E and C. The small black seeds are edible too. To increase the enjoyment of National Kiwifruit Day, increase a child’s knowledge with a recipe, a book and some fun.
Kiwifruit, known in North America, as the kiwi. According to California Kiwi, Kiwis weren’t available in North America until the 1960s. In addition to sharing interesting facts with children, this is an opportunity to share how and where fruit grows. Written by Jeremy and Josie Schroeder, “Pineapples Don't Grow On Trees!: How and Where Fruit Grows,” explores how fruit is grown and where in the world it grows.
The final step is to get active in the kitchen while preparing a kiwifruit recipe or try “slooping.” Slooping, explained by California Kiwi, is one way to eat a kiwi. Slice a kiwi lengthwise creating two halves. With a spoon scoop the fruit from both sides. A fresh kiwi is one way to experience the fruit, but you can also try a smoothie. Fruits and Veggies- More Matters suggests including kiwis in a smoothie. Mix kiwis, bananas and any other of your favorite fruits in a blender with ice and low-fat yogurt or skim milk. If you’d like to make the green color a focus, add some baby spinach leaves.
Michigan State University Extension encourages you to include kiwi as a fruit option on National Kiwifruit Day on the first day of winter, December 21. Enjoy a tasty kiwi smoothie or sloop a kiwi. Combine a book, a recipe, and some kiwi for some winter fun.
