4th of July Sugar Cookies

These are pictures of the different steps taken while making 4th of July sugar cookies.

                                                                    The end product!

There are many different concepts that children learn during cooking activities. Math and science are tied right into cooking. They learn about measuring, amounts, the use of fractions, and counting scoops put into the bowl. Concept such as liquids, solids, cause and effect, and the different food groups along with nutrition can be talked about during cooking activities. Fine motor skills are used as the students have the opportunity to stir the ingredients together. Learning what ingredients look /smell like and reading the names on the containers are concepts that can be included as you talk about what you’re making. Conversations about where ingredients come from, such as eggs come from chickens and sugar comes from sugar cane can widen the children’s knowledge. A key concept when cooking is fallowing directions. The recipe needs to be fallowed or else the food will not turn out.

When planning a cooking activity there are a few items to run though before doing the activity with the children. The recipe should be familiar and each step taken into consideration how it will unfold. Knowing the amount of time that it is going to take to complete the cooking activity and is an oven/stove/refrigerator/freezer needed. Make sure that there is enough of each ingredient and the supplies needed to complete the cooking activity. Always make sure that any allergies  are considered and if there is an alternative for that child. When planning, allow time for the children to wash their hands at the beginning or use sanitizer. Most importantly have fun!