A Reggio-Inspired Valentine's Day: The Language of Food ♡ Part 2
Cooking and Baking with children are everyday encounters in a Reggio-inspired practice.
Culinary experiences connect us with one another through the universal language of food. The preparation, the sharing of recipes, the dialogue, the smells, the tasting and the enjoyment together bring heart, mind and hands together as we share beautifully prepared dishes.
Kitchens in Reggio become a "virtuous weave of local culinary tradition, ecology, culture of dialogue, art, and the world." (Reggio Children, 2008)
Do you bake and cook with your children?
There are SO many benefits to getting our kids involved in the process (and yes, it can be messy!) but it's so worth it.
This Valentine's Day, I encourage you to begin a tradition! We did this a few years ago, and it was SO much fun.
We prepared for and created our very own Valentine's Day Pancake Bar.
The girls were responsible for creating a list of toppings for their pancakes, and then writing a list (using a "share-the-pen" technique). Each of us took turns adding to the list.
Next, we grocery shopped for the items.
This was their list::
- chocolate chips
- icing
- ice cream
- sprinkles
- strawberries
- bananas
- syrup
- blueberries
The girls chopped the fruit, and we got it ready in bowls.
We followed this recipe for our pancakes from Allrecipes.com (our absolute FAVORITE!)
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt and sugar. Make a well in the center and pour in the milk, egg and oil; mix until smooth.
- Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour or scoop the batter onto the griddle, using approximately 1/4 cup for each pancake. Brown on both sides and serve hot.
The girls helped cook the pancakes, and we all enjoyed a delicious Valentine's Day treat (in our PJ's!)
What made this so special was their involvement in the process. From writing the list, to shopping, to chopping to cooking and finally enjoying together.
I guarantee this will be an experience your children won't soon forget. And look at all of the learning that transpired!
