During this “in-between” time – vacation is done and school is not yet open – kids are often just hanging out, without organized activity. To help parents get back to work and use this time wisely, we decided to host a mini three day cooking camp.

And what a wise decision it is! We have a full camp with kids ranging 8-year-old to 14-year-old, boys and girls, from DC to Olney. The kids are fun and inquisitive, well-mannered and cooperative. A total joy to work with!

We learned about potatoes yesterday (did you know that French Fries are not from France? What McDonald’s do to the left-over Fries? That the biggest potato is bigger than an average cat?)

We prepared and cooked Pub-Style Chicken, paying attention to cleaniess and temperature control, and we mashed potatoes and mixed the toppings. Then we sat down and enjoyed the fruits of our labor. Needless to say, even the pickiest kid said that chicken was “G-O-O-D!” Once again we proofed that getting kids involved in cooking helps them to be independent and open to trying new things.

Today we will be making Teriyaki Burger and learning about pineapples; and we will do a tour and treasure hunt at Safeway. Tomorrow we will be making Dream Dinners favorite Chicken Mirabella and learning about Olives and Olive Oil.