Summer means it's time to enjoy fresh, locally grown fruits, veggies and other homegrown goodies. Take advantage of the season and make a visit to the farmer's market fun and educational for the kids. As they have a choice in the foods they're served, they'll be more encouraged to get into the habit of eating fresh fruits, vegetables and much more. You can find homemade pickles, jams and honey at farmer's markets that can enhance the taste of your food. And shopping locally means you keep your money in the community instead of giving it to a corporation that must pay its overseas suppliers. Produce found at the grocery store - especially out-of-season fruits and veggies - is more expensive and worse for the environment because of the distance it has to travel to get to your store. Buying locally means buying fresh, so take advantage while you can. Corn, cucumbers, tomatoes and squash are summer standards that your kids will enjoy. Pick them up along with a more unusual choice, such as kale or purple potatoes for a fun food adventure.

Grill corn and cut into three sections with a thick slice of grilled zucchini in between to make a corn "caterpillar" on the plate - use a grape tomato as the head. Or slice cooked corn off the cob and mix with diced fresh jalapenos, feta cheese, chopped tomatoes and a bit of fresh lime and olive oil to make a super-fresh summer salad with zest. You can stuff just about anything into a fresh tomato - try seasoned ground beef, rice, couscous or any other filling the kids like. Slice off the top to create a "hat," and you can add sliced black olive "eyes" and slap on a cheese "smile." Kids will love seeing Mr. Tomatohead at the table. Enjoy the fruits and vegetables summer has to offer, and help kids enjoy eating better.