The children in our sShool-age 2 program were given an opportunity to experience the process of baking an apple cake. They practiced using measuring cups and spoons and also the independence and confidence of using a knife to dice the apples.
First, the children took turns measuring the melted margarine and sugar when Alexis commented, “Oh that is a lot of sugar.” Then Claire added, “The apple cake will taste sweet and nice.” They children took turns creaming the margarine and sugar together. Then it was time to add the eggs, Olivia volunteered to crack an egg and said, “I have never done this before.” So, Mckenna whispered, “Crack it in the small bowl first.” As Olivia was trying to crack the egg oops! some fell on the table. The other children reassured her that it is okay. Then they measured and added the flour, baking powder, salt and ground cinnamon when Nivaan asked, “Why are we putting salt in the cake?” Then Alexis answered, “Maybe it will taste better.” The vanilla was premeasured and added to the milk so when Jordanna saw that she commented, “That looks like coffee, are we putting coffee in the apple cake?” Thomas said, “Maybe we are making coffee cake instead.” So, the children were given an opportunity to smell the mixture and then they realised that it was vanilla and they loved the smell. As the process continued Nivaan was curious and asked, “Are we going to put the apples in the cake?” Then, Jordanna replied, “Of course that is why it is called an apple cake silly.” The apples were added and mixed then it was time to add the chocolate chips when Claire asked if they can have a few to taste so each child was given a few chocolate chips to taste. The batter was almost ready with just one special ingredient to be added, the caramel sauce. When the children saw the caramel sauce, they were so excited that they all wanted a taste. So, each child was given a little squirt to taste and they all commented that it was the best part of baking the apple cake. The batter was ready and then poured into the baking pan and was put to bake. The next day, the children enjoyed their apple cake except Luara when we learned that she doesn’t like fruits in any form.
This experience allowed the children to work together to finish a task. They were able to welcome and get to know some of the new children into our program by giving them an opportunity to share their ideas, asked question and making sure that they are feeling accepted and included.
