Food is more than fuel. It's fun!

Get your child acquainted with food in a different way. By allowing him to experiment, he will learn textures and tastes - and have a whole lot of fun in the process!

    * Fill several plastic bowls with different types of food. We suggest things like cooked spaghetti, applesauce,strawberries, kiwi, Cheerios, ice cream and pickle relish.

    * Let your child touch each food, then squish it and splash it. Anything goes! It's best to do this activity in a room like the kitchen or outside on a warm day.

    * Depending on what it is, he can try to build with it and even combine different foods to create sculptures - or just a   big mess.

    * Break out the condiments - ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, salsa, soy sauce and more.

    * Ask your child, what happens to the ice cream when you add the pickle relish? What color does the applesauce become when you add ketchup or salsa? Does the smell change? Why? What does it taste like?

The idea is to let your child experience food with all his senses. Of course, tasting is encouraged, but be prepared for some crazy faces if you're adding anything spicy or sour to the mix!