With temperatures extremely low, Shrishti decided to take learning outdoors and explore with the children how cold temperatures can change materials by making ice cream using simple household ingredients – whipped cream, icing sugar and vanilla. This experience reflects the Early Learning Framework emphasis on inquiry-based and experiential learning, as children actively explored cause and effect while engaging with real-world materials.
Cooking plays a valuable role in the development of school-age children by supporting growth across multiple areas. Through this activity, children developed cognitive skills including problem-solving, sustained attention, and early mathematical thinking by measuring ingredients, following sequences, and observing physical changes in food. Fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination were strengthened as children mixed, poured, and prepared ingredients, supporting physical well-being and development.
Additionally, language and literacy development were enhanced through the introduction of new vocabulary, meaningful conversations, and use of written and verbal instructions. Cooking also supported their social and emotional development by fostering confidence, independence, responsibility, and cooperation as children worked collaboratively and experienced a sense of accomplishment.
The strong interest demonstrated by the children continued into the following day through a sensory play experience using loose parts such as pompons, popsicle sticks, pool noodles discs, and shaving cream. This open-ended play supported creativity, symbolic representation, and communication as children created donuts, smoothies, and banana splits while discussing menus and classifying items based on ingredients or types of icing. This experience aligns with the Early Learning Framework by highlighting play-based learning, responsive environments, and development of executive functioning skills such as planning, organization, and self-regulation.
Overall, these activities demonstrate how children learn through daily interactions and play, supporting holistic development, independence, and a strong foundation for future learning. We wonder if there are any cooking experiences you can share to continue to support the children’s further learning?
