Children Learn From Cooking Activities

 

1. Math- counting teaspoonfuls or cups as they go into a recipe can be practice in addition.  Fractions can be taught when measuring half cups or third cups or quarter teaspoons.

 

2. Science- many kinds of sciences can be applied to cooking.  Nutrition itself is a science which begins to teach children about what foods do for the body.  Agricultural sciences, biology and botany tell children from where food comes.  Chemistry is taught as children see bread rise from a leavening agent.  Physics is involved as butter melts from solid to liquid.

 

3.  Social Studies- foods originate from around the world.  Children can be told about the differences in culture, environment, religion, terrain and climate as they learn about many foods.

 

4.  Language- cooking can introduce new vocabulary words to children.  Language and sentence skills are practiced as children talk about the food that is being prepared.  The importance of order and direction of thought is taught through following recipe instructions.

 

5.  Art- color, form, texture and shape are concepts that lend themselves easily to food.  Children learn the satisfaction of creating something out of raw materials.

 

6.  Social Development-  Food is an important part of life.  Children can learn sensible eating habits and table manners which promote courtesy.  Cooking in groups can give a sense of participation and a change to get adult companionship.

 

7.  Physical Development- Both fine and gross motor skills can be developed through mixing, stirring, tossing, squeezing, cutting, peeling, pouring or beating.

 

8.  Emotional Development- Cooking shows a child that his/her skills, judgment and taste can make a difference.  This creates a sense of self-confidence and pride of accomplishment.  When children learn to prepare food for themselves, they feel less dependent on adults.