In early September, our Kindergarten Salsa Garden beckoned us to explore. The lush green leaves hid ripening tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers. A tower of beautiful "sunrise" honeysuckle bloomed fragrantly nearby. A stepping stone path that began at the gate ended on the far side of the garden where the fragrance of chive, basil, oregano, cilantro, parsley, and mint filled the air. What we found in the Kindergarten Salsa Garden inspired our first Kinder Cooks project. We found a recipe for salsa in our Mexican cook book and got to work!
Kindergartners picked the vegetables...
...washed the vegetables...
...became curious about the seeds found the tomatoes and the peppers...
...practiced safe knife handling techniques with plastic table knives and cutting boards using the "one finger pointing" over the top of the table knife and the "helping hand" with a firm tripod grip....
...encountered challenges and problem-solved with peers...
...experienced how it feels to take turns and be included...
...and how delicious snack can be when you make it with friends!