July

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ACTIVITY: Color Hunt in Nature

A fun way to spend a hot summer day is to go on a color hunt. Simply invite your child to collect items in the outdoor environment. Challenge them to find items for every color of the rainbow. Arrange items on a piece of fabric or paper. Photograph! Encourage them to identify, sort, and categorize each found idea to enhance their learning and skill development.

PLANT OF THE MONTH: Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus)

As the most consumed melon in the United States, watermelon is known as the favorite summertime fruit. Eaten by many, watermelon is a refreshing and healthy option during the summer months. When planting seeds, place them directly into the soil one and a half inches deep with 48 to 60 inches of separation between each seed or transplant. Make sure to plant between mid-April to June to avoid the dangers of frost. Harvest between July to early October.

RECIPE: Fruit Salsa

Ingredients

• • 3 pint containers of raspberries
  • 2 pint containers of blackberries
  • 1 pint container of strawberries, stems removed and diced

Instructions

1. Gently toss all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
2. Chill in refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Serve with cinnamon chips or graham crackers.
4. Serve and Enjoy!

Archer, M., Konradi, S., Lelekacs, J., Driscoll, E. (2015). Growing Warm-Season Fruits and Vegetables in Childcare Production Gardens. LF-007-03. Raleigh: North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service.