Baking at preschool is more than a hands-on learning experience; it is a learning experience filled with opportunities for exploration, cooperation and cultural connection.
Our little chefs washed their hands and gathered around the table, here we see mana tangata come to life.
Children worked together to grate carrots, measure flour, and stir the mixture. Each child had an important part to play, reinforcing a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. Around the table, children are learning through doing, exploring what happens when dry ingredients are mixed with wet ones or how the oven changes the mixture.
Using mathematical thinking to count spoonfuls and compare quantities. Baking is a familiar and valued part of many of our Pacific cultures, especially when preparing and sharing food is an act of love, connection and service. We encouraged children to share stories of baking and cooking with their families, valuing their cultural knowledge and strengthening their identity.
Ingredients such as learning, culture, cooperation and joy are all important components needed for the perfect carrot muffin to share with friends. Empowering children to become competent, confident learners and communicators as they get Set for School.
We see baking together as helping children build foundational skills that can support a smooth transition to school. Following a sequence of instructions, remaining in a group experience from beginning to end, and demonstrating independence and self-management.