Learners do so much work throughout the day. It is important they have adequate rest and nutrition. Part of this involves making and enjoying snacks in the morning and afternoon!
After morning circle time, learners begin their first work cycle, during which they have the option of taking a break at the snack table. First, they wash their hands, then they set down a placemat, napkin, and a snack. If they are alone at the snack table, a learner will usually invite a friend walking around the studio to join them. Once there, they often engage in conversation. On Wednesday, one friend asked another, “Which is your favorite planet?” to which the other replied, “Pluto because it is a dwarf planet.” The inquirer agreed, “Pluto is my favorite, too!”
The learners practice many skills when engaging with the daily snacks. If there is no space at the table, learners find a short task to complete in the studio or rest in the library while they wait for a spot to become available. While enjoying a snack, learners practice consideration by occupying the table for a short amount of time. If necessary, learners also sweep crumbs from the table and floor as well as push in their chairs. They even practice sorting their rubbish into either the trash or recycling bins.
During the afternoon, learners usually have an opportunity to prepare the snack. Both nappers and afternoon learners enjoy cutting things like apples, turkey sausage, and cheese. On special occasions, afternoon learners even help bake muffins.
Snack preparation is also a great extension for number work. The first task of snack preparation involves counting out the required amount of cups. Learners then sort the right quantity of protein, carbohydrate, vegetable, and fat into each cup. For example, one cup might require two apple slices, one cheese cube, one baby carrot, and four crackers. While snack preparation is not usually available in the morning, learners may draw and write on the kitchen white board what the morning snack contains. The morning and afternoon snacks are optional, which also allows learners to practice engaging with their own hunger cues!
We look forward to many more productive and delicious snacks to come! Bon appetit!