Summer is the perfect time to eat, play with, craft and learn about watermelons
Of course you’ll want to start by making a watermelon craft. This paper plate watermelon from No Time For Flashcards is super easy to make with things you probably already have in the house. Kids can also practice their cutting skills on this one. (Or do the same thing but with paint instead of paper.)
If you have some smooth rocks around, you can always paint rocks to look like watermelon, as in this activity from Projects with Kids.
If you don’t want to play with actual food, you can make a watermelon themed sensory bag, like this one from Preschool Play and Learn. You could also just cut up some melon and let the kids squish it, but that it is admittedly wasteful unless they also eat it. Or try this watermelon slime recipe from Coffee Cups and Crayons, which uses watermelon Jell-o for the scent and color.
Sugar Spice and Glitter has watermelon playdough along with a counting activity to do with the “seeds” (the dough is made with Kool-Aid and the seeds are black beans).
Kidsparkz has some great free and paid printable watermelon worksheets and activities, including watermelon fractions, counting cards, coloring pages and more.
If you want to make something watermelon themed for your kids to play with that will also help with their motor skills, check out this watermelon puzzle from Little Ladoo. It involves making the watermelon shape and poking some small holes, then the kids try to get beads to land in the holes. Visit the post for all the details.
If you want something different from just plain watermelon for a snack after all your watermelon play, why not make watermelon Popsicles? Get the recipe from Coffee Cups and Crayons.
Watermelon Wonders: A Sweet Book List for Kids
“The Watermelon Seed
Age Level: 3 – 6 years
Review: Join the lovable and quirky crocodile as he indulges in his favorite snack, watermelon! This delightful picture book takes young readers on a fun and imaginative adventure that humorously addresses the fear of swallowing a watermelon seed. With colorful illustrations and simple text, “The Watermelon Seed” is sure to charm and entertain preschoolers.
“One Watermelon Seed
Age Level: 4 – 8 years
Review: In this educational and beautifully illustrated counting book, children learn about planting and growing a watermelon plant from just one tiny seed. With each turn of the page, young readers will see how one seed multiplies to become a bountiful harvest. “One Watermelon Seed” is an engaging and informative book that sparks curiosity about the wonders of nature.
“Watermelon Wishes
Age Level: 5 – 8 years
Review: In this touching and imaginative tale, a young girl discovers the magic hidden inside a watermelon and uses her wishes to brighten the lives of those around her. “Watermelon Wishes” encourages children to embrace kindness, creativity, and the power of their own imagination. The charming illustrations complement the lyrical storytelling, making this book a delightful read-aloud.
“Watermelon Madness” by Taghreed Najjar
Age Level: 6 – 9 years
Review: Travel to Palestine with Sami and his family as they embark on a watermelon-picking adventure. This beautifully illustrated book offers a glimpse into Palestinian culture, traditions, and the joy of family gatherings. “Watermelon Madness” celebrates the simple pleasures of life and the joy that can be found in the most unexpected places.
“The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear
Age Level: 3 – 7 years
Review: While not exclusively about watermelons, this classic picture book is a delightful tale about a little mouse trying to protect his prized strawberry from a big, hungry bear. With captivating illustrations and a heartwarming storyline, “The Little Mouse, The Red Ripe Strawberry, and The Big Hungry Bear” is a must-have for any children’s book collection.
Enjoy these sweet and refreshing children’s books all about watermelons, as they inspire young minds and ignite a love for reading and learning!
