This month we had two special guests come in and make Roti with us. Sureet and Advika’s moms took time out of their busy schedules to show us how to make traditional food from their culture. Advika has brought Roti in her lunch a few times and the preschoolers have been inquisitive and asking what she is eating. I thought it would be great opportunity to ask if they would be willing to show us how it is made. We try to embrace and celebrate all the different cultures and backgrounds that make up our RisingOaks families. Today we learned that Roti is made with grains and as we were making roti it also taught the children about cultural traditions and the joy of cooking together. As they stirred, kneaded, rolled, they're not just making food, they're creating memories and connections to their friends' heritage. We try and strive to provide the children with acceptance, understanding and joy of experiences based on cultural diversity. Today we embraced traditional Indian food that not only satisfies taste buds but also serves as an educational and enriching experience for children. The children took turns scooping, mixing and kneading the dough which helps to foster connections, inclusion and a sense of belonging, while shaping positive experiences with food for children that influence their long-term food preferences and unique cultural identities. Exposing children to foods from many cultures helps to develop their understanding of the world around them. A few days after the visit Advika was role playing making Roti in the sandbox. Using what she has learned from her family’s traditions making Roti together along with their visit here and everyone helping and going through all of the steps making Roti as a class. Before she started she collected bowls, a rolling pin, mixing spoons and a plate. She took that and carried it into her play along with her peers that now that create sandbox Roti. Food is an integral part of all cultures. It connects us to our origins like family and country, to our beliefs and experiences, and to our unique cultural customs and traditions.
