Cooking Up Literacy: A First Day That Built More Than Recipes

Alonzo Moore
Apr 16
2 min read

As I began learning the kids’ names and hearing their excitement, it was clear this experience was already becoming something special.

Our very first Cooking Up Literacy experience at the Boys & Girls Club didn’t involve cooking—but it delivered something just as meaningful.

It built excitement.

It built connection.

And it gave kids ownership from day one.

A Sweet Start

Before the session began, kids enjoyed free Kona Ice during part of the scheduled time. It was a simple moment, but it brought energy, smiles, and a sense of community to kick things off.

Starting with Literacy First

While Cooking Up Literacy includes hands-on cooking, the first experience focused on building a strong foundation.

Kids engaged in:

A picture walk through the cookbook
A read-aloud
Questioning and discussion

And they were fully engaged.

They asked:

“What do I need to bring?”
“Can I cook at home with this book?”
“Will we use the kitchen?”

These questions showed something important—they were already invested.

Planning What Comes Next

Each child shared their top two food choices from the cookbook, and together, they made their first group decision.

They selected:

Homemade ice cream
Blueberry chocolate chip parfait

Since no-bake cooking will take place first, these choices were a perfect fit—and a powerful moment of ownership.

Making Space for Every Voice

One child asked, “What if I don’t like an ingredient like banana?”

That question opened the door to an important conversation about Smart Swaps—helping kids understand:

It’s okay to make changes
It’s okay to have preferences
It’s important to respect food needs and allergies

With allergy information already on file, everyone can participate safely and confidently.

A Moment That Said Everything

After the first session, one child came back and shared something honest.

“I thought it was going to be boring… but it wasn’t because we got to plan what we’re going to cook.”

That shift—from doubt to ownership—is the heart of this work.

Building Skills Beyond the Kitchen

Throughout the session, kids:

Shared favorite foods
Prepared to work in teams of four
Discussed safety practices for future cooking (including gloves and kid-friendly tools)

They also made one simple but powerful agreement:

They would call each other friends.

Because this isn’t just about cooking—it’s about connection.

They’ll cook with friends here, and with family at home.

Real-Life Learning

Kids also explored a real-world topic—comparing filtered water and bottled water.

They discussed cost, value, and how everyday choices impact families. One adult even shared they planned to pass the information along.

Moments like this show that learning goes far beyond recipes.

Resources That Support the Experience

To support the program, books have been made available through sponsorship, giving kids access to their own copies.

In addition, What’s Stirring Family Foundation has provided in-kind books that will be used during group cooking experiences at the Boys & Girls Club.