"When children feel good about themselves, it's like a snowball rolling downhill. They are continually able to recognize and integrate new proof of their value as they grow and mature." -Stephanie Marston

Photos - 02/20/10

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Teaching Children About Food

Please, take 20 minutes and watch this inspirational video, Jamie Oliver's TED Talk: Teach Kids About Food.



At Kinder Beginnings, we have recently added "Mixing Mondays" to our scheduled weekly activities. The children are having fun while learning cooking skills, math skills (measuring and counting), and scientific properties; they are developing dexterity (pouring and stirring) and social skills. I believe that exposure to raw ingredients - REAL food - should be an essential component of Early Childhood programs. Kids are naturally curious; providing them with hands-on experience helps them to develop an interest in nutrition and makes them much more willing to try new things. Much of our menu already consists of basic, organic, healthy foods (fruits, vegetables, milk, yogurt, grains, cheese). On "Mixing Mondays" we will work mostly on items that when store bought can be full of preservatives and artificial ingredients: breads, granola, crackers and other snack items.

The kids have really been enjoying themselves with this new addition! I will keep you informed of our projects to spark family conversations. You can support our new endeavor by showing your child that you are interested in their work. Occasionally, I will send some of our results home for your family to sample together. Families are welcome to contribute recipes for us to try - we may not make them all, but I will consider each one.

Also in line with this project, we have two new food sources in the works. First, we will be starting our first beehive this spring; the plan is to eventually transition to honey for nearly all sweetening purposes. Secondly, is the addition of our goat milk supply. Assuming that we can get a decent amount from our girls, we will be making our own cheeses starting this year. As with any component of our program, feel free to ask any questions you may have. We are very excited about taking these steps toward less processed and more self-sufficient foods - and we hope you share in our enthusiasm! :)

Photos - 02/13/10

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Photos - 02/10/10

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Our Colorful Week...

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Article: Playing to Learn

from the New York Times

How to Really Love a Child