c o o k e r y

"I think that I cannot have a better beginning for "Cookery for Children," than Mr. Ruskin's definition of what cookery means. He says:--"It means the knowledge of all herbs, and fruits, and balms, and spices, and of all that is healing and sweet in fields and groves, and savoury in meats; it means carefulness, and inventiveness, and watchfulness, and willingness and readiness of appliance; it means the economy of your great grandmothers, and the science of modern chemists; it means much tasting and no wasting; it means English thoroughness, and French art, and Arabian hospitality; . . . and as you are to see imperatively, that everybody has something pretty to put on, so you are to see yet more imperatively that everybody has something nice to eat." -Miss Firth, Parent's Review

"Cooking is a taste that has been sadly neglected in a child's education. There is continual opportunity afforded by cooking for self-control. Observation is very important, and children will see that the neglect of it has a dire effect on their dishes. Almost equally important is accuracy of quantities as regards weights and measures." -Miss Firth, Parent's Review

The scent of vanilla and cinnamon filled the kitchen. The feel of firm, fresh zucchini and soft, silky flour ran through our hands. Together, we measured, mixed and baked. This child loves to cook. He eagerly awaited ownership of his very own, child sized sifter. And finally, he received it and used it with delight. Today, this was our school. We gently discussed many concepts throughout the process. Ingredients. Textures. Colors. Quantities. Liquids. Solids. The process was pleasurable. The product, delicious. Proud of his creation, he excitedly served our family. And we were thankful.