We all know little ones will put anything in their mouths — why not make it something delicious after finishing a good book? Make literature come alive on those little taste buds!
Blueberries for Sal
Written and illustrated by Robert McCloskey; best for ages 2+
Set in Maine, this is the story of Sal and her mother as they pick blueberries to can for the winter. Close by, a mother bear and her cub are foraging for berries as well. After finishing this book, take your little one to The Berry Patch, located just south of Kansas City. You can pick blueberries in the coming summer months!
Ice Cream Face
Written and illustrated by Heidi Woodward Sheffield; best for ages 2+
The only thing worse than not having ice cream is watching others enjoy their ice cream while you wait for yours! This story is full of emotion and beautiful illustrations about one of our favorite sweet treats. After finishing this book, take a trip to Sylas and Maddie’s Homemade Ice Cream in Olathe or The Golden Scoop in Overland Park so your little ones can choose their own flavor!
The Little Engine That Could
By Watty Piper, illustrated by George and Doris Hauman; best for ages 3+
First published in 1930, this sweet book showcases themes of determination and kindness. What better way to really experience this story than to head to Fritz’s Railroad Restaurant (Crown Center; Kansas City, Kan.; Shawnee), where your order is brought to your table by a model train!
If You Give a Mouse a Cookie
By Laura Numeroff, illustrated by Felicia Bond; best for ages 2+
“If you give a mouse a cookie, he’s going to ask for a glass of milk” is how this sweet story begins, and a circular tale ensues. Head down to KC Cookies in Olathe or Quarantine Cookie Company in Kansas City, Kan., to grab a cookie for your little ones. But be ready — they will probably want a glass of milk to go with it!
Strega Nona
Written and illustrated by Tomie dePaola; best for ages 3+
Strega Nona is known in her village for curing ailments, offering advice and always having a large pot of never-ending pasta in her home. When Big Anthony is hired to help her, he decides to try and conjure up some pasta of his own — and ends up with an overflowing pot of pasta that won’t stop growing. After finishing this book, try the pasta at Cupini’s in Westport or Bella Napoli in Brookside!
Delena Soukup is a homeschooling mama to her nine children in Overland Park. She is always looking for ways to incorporate food into any school lesson or reading session. Delena has been known to frequent Sylas and Maddie’s with friends on a moms night out. You can follow her domestic adventures on Instagram at @thecoffeecurriculum.