Ann Smith Healthy Eating Workshops

During the “Healthy Eating Workshops” that I have been giving for children in schools and local communities, I have observed that the children gained a good knowledge of food and enjoyed themselves, being able to produce good healthy, freshly made food

I have come to the conclusion that the following information should be considered in helping cookery classes be taught in all our schools again

The children became very knowledgeable about healthy eating, different kinds of food, where it came from and what food does to their bodies when eating a good healthy diet.
Gave them a basic knowledge of a nutritious diet and which foods are good for certain parts of the body to stay healthy.
The children were not afraid to try different and new foods.
They discovered that home-made is best and that food does not take a long time to prepare and cook.
Cooking uses their senses of sight, touch, taste and smell.
The children can “ show off”, by producing something that everyone needs and they are proud of their products.

The lessons taught how to prepare, cook and store food safely.
The classes give good kitchen skills and teach food hygiene, which makes the children more aware of safety in the kitchen and in general life.
Cooking at home contributes to home life and gives confidence and independence.
It gives carers and family time out of the kitchen if children can cook.
The children have fun working independently and as a team, getting to know about food from different parts of the world, which helps them learn about global cultures and geography.
Lessons help them learn about seasonal food and how this can help with global and economic issues.
Cooking can expand their vocabulary and create imagination whilst giving them life skills.
Cooking can help with maths,- weighing and measuring.
Cooking helps them to be able to follow and understand instructions.
Cooking is fun and very enjoyable.