Cooking

Cooking
 

In the cooking area, children have a chance to make many delicious, nutritious snacks. Cooking allows the children to build upon their cognitive skills. They learn how to measure, and they have a chance to explore cause and effect by watching the ingredients mix together to create the finished product. It is also a great chance for them to practice following a set of instructions.

Literacy opportunities are available in the cooking area too. Most of the recipes we make have recipe cards for us to follow, which allows the children to gain an understanding of how to read a recipe. There are many cooking vocabulary words that children learn in this center as well. For example, they learn how to simmer, dice, knead, grate, and bake. 

The physical actions involved in cooking help children strengthen the small muscles in their hands.

Ideas for Home:

Whenever you are cooking, allow your children to have a role in the process. Starting with simple actions is best (e.g. pouring measured ingredients into the bowl or stirring batter). While you are cooking, make sure you discuss what is happening. Ask questions to inspire their thinking processes.

When children help in the cooking process, they are more likely to eat the final product. This lays the groundwork for their eating habits in the future, so the more involved they can be, the better off they'll be!

Source:
Dodge, Diane T., Colker, Laura J., Heroman, Cate. (2002). The Creative Curriculum.
        Washington DC: Teaching Strategies Inc.