04/02/2026
This morning at Calvary OSHC Carbrook, our OSHC children kicked off the day with plenty of excitement as they took part in our planned Kids in the Kitchen cooking experience. Once a week on different days to give everyone a chance to participate, we’ll be exploring new recipes together, building confidence and independence as the children create something delicious from scratch. Today’s recipe was a crowd favourite: chocolate crackles! The room was filled with chatter, curiosity, and the sweet smell of chocolate as the children eagerly measured, mixed, and prepared their treats.
Our learning aims for this experience focused on developing practical life skills such as measuring ingredients, following instructions, and practicing safe food handling. We also aimed to strengthen the children’s numeracy, sequencing, and scientific thinking, while encouraging teamwork and responsibility. It was clear the children embraced these goals wholeheartedly. They took turns using measuring cups, carefully followed each step in sequence with guidance from Ms. Gabi, and demonstrated excellent hygiene by washing their hands and using gloves before handling the chocolate crackles mixture.
One of the most heartwarming moments came when Elora found it tricky to hold the bowl and mix at the same time. Without being prompted, Hudson S. stepped in to hold the bowl steady so she could mix with ease. This simple act of kindness showed the beautiful teamwork and thoughtfulness that thrives within our OSHC community. Moments like these remind us why shared experiences are so valuable. They help children learn not only skills, but empathy and cooperation (MTOP V2.0 LO 1.4 - children and young people learn to interact in relation to others with care, empathy, and respect).
As part of our Carbrook OSHC service philosophy, we place great importance on valuing children’s voices, interests, and ideas. Today, the children had plenty to say about future cooking adventures. Genevieve suggested loaded fries and caramel slice, while Ashlyn is interested in making brownies. Enzo offered a wonderfully creative idea: watching motorbike videos while eating! Their enthusiasm and imagination help shape our program, ensuring it reflects what they genuinely enjoy and want to explore.
To connect our experience to broader learning, we love this quote from Maria Montessori, which captures the essence of hands on cooking beautifully: “what the hand does, the mind remembers.” Cooking gives children the chance to learn through doing, building independence, confidence, and joy in the process.
It was a fantastic morning filled with learning, laughter, and delicious creations. We’re already looking forward to next week’s culinary adventure… Pizza for International Pizza Day! Our Carbrook OSHC community continues to shine, and we’re so proud of the wonderful experiences we share together.