Success StoryBite Size Bakers



Bite Size Bakers

Author: Christy Stearns

Planning Unit: Clinton County CES

Major Program: Food Preparation and Preservation

Plan of Work: Healthy & Active Lifestyles: Nutrition & Food Access, Physical & Mental Health

Outcome: Initial Outcome

It is well documented that children learn best when they are actively involved in what they are doing. A Bite Sized Bakers program was designed to engage 37 kindergarten and first grade students in learning the basics of baking including handwashing, identifying and properly using kitchen tools, gathering ingredients and supplies, recipe reading, and decorating baked products. One Teen Leadership Clinton County member helped facilitate the program along with involvement from 8 parents. Participants developed fine motor, sensory, and hand eye coordination skills as they added and poured ingredients into bowls, broke eggs, mixed and stirred ingredients, and experimented with textures, smells, and tastes. Literacy and math skills were enhanced as participants engaged in recipe reading and measuring wet and dry ingredients. Small group work encouraged communication, listening, and teamwork. At the end of the program, parents engaged in a decorating competition with children to encourage creativity in the kitchen and continued baking at home. 100% of participants practiced proper handwashing and accurately identified and used kitchen tools. Participants had gained confidence in the kitchen and themselves. Children shared that they loved baking and planned to make the same recipes at home. Parents shared that their children thanked them repeatedly for signing them up for the program and enjoyed it so much that they want another program. 90% of parents reported that their children are more engaged in the kitchen and want to help prepare family meals. Additional series are planned for other bite size bakers later this year.






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