Followed a recipe to make gummy bears / Activity Analysis

Art

• The child can learn about color mixing and patterns by choosing different colors for their gummy bears and arranging them in different patterns on the tray.
• They can also exercise creativity by experimenting with various shapes and sizes for their gummy bears.
• Observing the gummy bears as they set can teach the child about textures and how materials change in form.

English Language Arts

• The child can practice following step-by-step instructions by reading the recipe and putting it into action.
• After making the gummy bears, they can practice descriptive writing by writing about the experience and what they learned from it.
• They can also engage in storytelling by creating a narrative about the gummy bears they made and sharing it with others.

Math

• Measuring ingredients introduces the child to basic math concepts such as counting, addition, and measuring volume.
• Discussing shapes and sizes of the gummy bears can help reinforce the child's understanding of these concepts.
• Practicing division by sharing the gummy bears with others can also be a fun way to reinforce math skills.

Physical Education

• While making the gummy bears, the child can practice fine motor skills by stirring the ingredients and pouring them into molds.
• They can also engage in sensory play by touching and feeling the ingredients as they combine them.
• Engaging in a dance or movement activity while waiting for the gummy bears to set can also be a fun way to incorporate physical activity into the process.

Science

• The child can learn about states of matter by observing how the ingredients change from a liquid to a solid form when making the gummy bears.
• They can also explore the concept of solubility by discussing how the gelatin dissolves in the liquid and forms a gel-like consistency when cooled.
• Understanding the role of temperature in cooking can also be introduced when discussing how the gummy bears solidify in the refrigerator.

Social Studies

• The child can learn about different cultures and traditions by exploring the history and origins of gummy candies in different parts of the world.
• They can also engage in discussions about sharing and teamwork when deciding how to divide and share the gummy bears with others.
• Learning about the importance of following health and safety guidelines when cooking can also be emphasized during the activity.

Continued development related to this activity can include encouraging the child to experiment with different flavors and textures to make a variety of homemade gummy treats. They can also explore packaging and presenting their gummy bears in creative ways, promoting entrepreneurship and presentation skills.

Book Recommendations

• The Gummy Bear Book by Jane Chapman: A delightful story that introduces children to the world of gummy bears and the joy of making and sharing them.
• Cooking Class: 57 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Make (and Eat!) by Deanna F. Cook: A book that introduces children to the art of cooking, including a gummy bear recipe and other fun culinary activities.
• Bear Feels Scared by Karma Wilson and Jane Chapman: A heartwarming story that can be related to the gummy bear activity, teaching children about emotions and overcoming fears.