Use any cookie cutters that you may have to cut watermelon into shapes. This simple watermelon craft is great for children of all ages. It only requires one ingredient, and there are endless possibilities. This is a great activity to do on a hot summer day with the family.
CUSTOMIZE IT
Create your watermelon shape, or use one of these ideas!
Combine watermelon with blueberries to make a patriotic-themed salad.
Skewer onto a Cake Pop, a large shape for a watermelon stick.
You can coordinate with holidays such as Valentine’s Day or the Fourth of July. Or you could even use Christmas trees in Winter.
Why eat watermelon?
Watermelon is a favorite among children because of its sweet and juicy taste. Low in calories but high in nutrients. Watermelon contains 92% of water and helps children stay hydrated. It is important to stay hydrated for a healthy digestive system. Dehydration, even mild, can lead to fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Watermelon contains a variety of nutrients, including:
Minerals and vitamins. This product is full of vitamins A and C to help your child develop and maintain good eye and dental health. It also contains potassium, iron, and magnesium.
Lycopene is a pigment in plants that gives watermelon a reddish color. Other red and pink fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes and papayas, also contain lycopene. Lycopene protects the body against damage, helps keep the heart healthy and eyes working properly, and may help protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR WATERMELON CRAFTING
Cut thin pieces: The slices need to be thinner. The cookie cutters will not go through if they are too thick. Your child will get frustrated. It would help if you aimed for half-inch slices.
For toddlers and young children, use smaller cookie cutters. This is the link to one of my daughter’s favorites. There are many more cute options. The longer the edges are, the easier they will be to use for your child.
Try different types of melons. Children in elementary school and older can easily cut through the other types of melons, which have additional health benefits. Watermelon, however, is easier to cut out for children younger than elementary school age. It is easy to cut because of the high water content. Plus, unlike some other melons, the seeds do not need to be removed.
STEP 1: Slice the watermelon into 1/2-inch slices
If you have trouble getting the slices the right size, first cut the watermelon lengthways and then slice it. Be sure that the watermelon is thinner than your cookie cutters.
STEP 2 – USE COOKIE CUTTER TO CUT OUT SHAPE
Slice it and enjoy it as a snack.
Watermelon Granita is a delicious ice-cold treat.
Blend a watermelon-strawberry smoothie. Add 1 cup watermelon, 1/2 cup strawberries, and a handful of ice to make a tasty and refreshing smoothie.
Add watermelon slices to a fruit dish.
