Baking cookies

Math

• The child learned how to measure ingredients accurately using measuring cups and spoons.
• They practiced counting and measuring as they followed the recipe instructions.
• The child learned about fractions when measuring out ingredients like 1/2 cup of flour.
• They practiced basic addition and subtraction when adjusting the recipe for different serving sizes.

Science

• The child learned about the chemical reactions that occur during baking, such as the leavening agents reacting with heat.
• They learned about the different states of matter as they observed the dough changing from a liquid to a solid when baked.
• The child observed the browning of the cookies due to the Maillard reaction, learning about the role of heat in food chemistry.
• They learned about the importance of following precise instructions and timing in order to achieve desired results.

Continued Development Tip: Encourage the child to experiment with different types of cookies, varying ingredients and flavors. They can keep a record of their experiments, noting any changes in measurements or baking times, and compare the results. This will further develop their math skills through measurement and data analysis, as well as their scientific inquiry skills.

Book Recommendations

• The Cookie Fiasco by Mo Willems: A fun and engaging story about four friends who have to share three cookies, introducing concepts of division and problem-solving.
• Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!) by Deanna F. Cook: This interactive cookbook not only provides delicious recipes but also teaches kids about kitchen safety, measurements, and techniques.
• The Great Cookie Fiasco by Dan Santat: Follow four friends as they try to bake cookies for a school party, learning about teamwork, problem-solving, and math concepts along the way.