Jan. 22, 2008 - United States Party Night
Here's an idea for adding to your studies of the United States.
We kept a surprise all day of the giant cookie we were going to make, shape, and decorate as the United States of America. It was a fun kitchen experience again. It's nice to hear excited yells of, "Can I help you?" being followed by the kids running toward the kitchen. Messier? Yes. More time consuming? Yes. At dinnertime, though, another memory of cooking in the kitchen together is invaluable. Below are the instructions. Add some home ec, art, and memories to your day. Maybe some hot chocolate, too! God bless.
United States Cookie
We doubled a chocolate chip cookie cookie dough recipe and left out the chocolate chips. Once mixed according to the package directions, we pushed it out into the shape of the U.S. Next, it was rolled smoothed. Mountains were formed for the Rockies and the Appalachians. A cinnamon and sugar mixture was sprinkled on the desert areas, and green sugar applied for grass/mountains. We baked it until it was done according to package directions. While still warm, we added large hershey kisses for the Rockies and smaller ones for the Appalachians. We got a few toys to add to represent different states/cities. A horse for Kentucky, a bell for the city of Philadelphia, etc. Blue icing was used to make the rivers.
My children tagged our night the United States Party. Since it was a party, they HAD to get dressed up. The girls begged me to curl and fix their hair fancy. I figured since we would probably never take them to Libby Lu (spelling?) to let a stranger fix them in a way we wouldn't approve, I could make it memorable and fun at home for them. They wanted Daddy to dance with them and twirl them around. It was a late night and full of fun for them. What a blessing to look back and be glad for the extra time spent late at night to make this "homeschool" activity so much more than just geography learning! These are the memories we homeschool moms cherish and add to our belt to get out when the devil comes knocking with discouragement and doubt!
What fun kitchen activities has your family experienced that you'd like to share?
