Handstand Kids was an idea that Yvette Garfield came up with on a flight home from India. She wanted to create a series of cookbooks where children, ages 3 to 12, could learn not only how to cook, but to understand different cultures and languages. With these new skills, she wanted to inspire children to make a difference in their communities.
In the series, Garfield has introduced both the Italian and Mexican culture to thousands of children. Each book, gives children the tools they need to create meals with safety tips and advice. Typical ingredients and kitchen utensils are listed with their name in both English and the language for the current cookbook. Some tantalizing recipes are introduced to children, with some fresh ideas on how to make typical American dishes with a more of a foreign flair (of course, in relation to that specific cookbook).
Each cookbook comes packaged in an appropriate manner. Get this, the Italian cookbook comes in a pizza box with a chef's hat! The Mexican cookbook comes in a tortilla bag with an oven mitt. And now, the Chinese cookbook comes in a take-out box with chopsticks!
In her current cookbook, the Chinese cookbook, children will learn Mandarin as well as numerous cultural tidbits about the Chinese culture. Your children can learn how to make Spring-a-licious Spring Rolls, Kung Pow! Chicken and Year of the Monkey Smoothie.
The Handstand Kids website sells their cookbook kits, as well as the oven mitts, chef hats, aprons and place mats that double as a cutting board. The mats are great! They show the appropriate country with the names of food ingredients in both languages.
Children will take away a wealth of skills from these cookbooks. They will learn how to create meals and gain independence. They will also take more of an interest in food and be more willing to try new foods when they actually take the time to create it. They will learn about the differences and similarities of other cultures, as well as new language skills. Through these new skills, they will also learn that we are very lucky people in this country and how we can use our new cooking skills as well as knowledge of other cultures to help those in need.
This is an excellent collection to have in your home, the library, your school or as a gift.
If you are interested in more information on: Kids Cooking, Chinese Cooking or Chinese Learning Tips.
Jennifer Wickes - I am a freelance food writer, recipe developer and award-winning cook. With 30 years of cooking experience, a certification in Food and ...
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