Have you ever noticed how many foods are introduced in children’s books? I’m thinking about maple syrup on snow in The Little House in the Big Woods, the pomegranates in the Greek myth of Persephone, and the Turkish Delight in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. You can make foods with your children from some of their favorite books, and then read them aloud while they dig in. Bonus: kids’ appetites for discussing a book might be whetted by eating a food that plays a role in the book!

This idea is adapted from Anne Fishel’s forthcoming book, Home for Dinner: Mixing Food, Fun, and Conversation for Healthier Families and Happier Kids,  due out in January 2015.