Kitchen Equipment for Your Classroom

Things to Think about

1) How much food do you need for your class?

Using food in your classroom is a great opportunity for students to taste and explore food but it is not a substitute for a meal or a snack.

As a general rule, allow these amounts per student:

• A recipe that feeds 4-6 adults provides a sample for a class of 16-20 students.
• Slices of bread, pita, tortillas, bagels, or English muffins: ¼ of each per student.
• Smoothies, yogurts, juices, and drinks: ¼ cup per student.
• Seeds, trail mix, and granolas: 2 Tablespoons per student.
• Whole fruit: divide each slice into 6-8 pieces depending on the size.

2) How should I organize my classroom?

Everyone’s classroom set up is different. Here’s one example of a teacher dividing students into small groups to make smoothies:

“I decided to push four desks together at the back of the classroom to make one large workspace. I had to place the blender closest to the outlet because I didn’t have an extension cord. I then laid out the ingredients, measuring cups and tasting cups. Next to the table, I kept the milk, yogurt, and frozen fruit cold by placing it in a cooler with an ice pack. Each group came up to the table and took turns measuring and making their smoothie. Before tasting, each group had to go back to their desks and try what they made together. Students were not required to sample the smoothie, but were required to sit with their group and talk about their experience.“

3) What if a student refuses to take a taste of the recipe?

Do not pressure students into trying any food if they choose not to. This is a time to simply say “yes please” or “no thank you.” Encourage students to still sit together even if they choose not to taste.

4) What about food and kitchen safety?

• Keep first aid kits accessible and always practice appropriate food safety.
• Remind students about basic kitchen safety such as keeping pot handles turned away from the outer edge of the stove or table and turning off cooking appliances after use.
• Find out how to teach your kids knife skills.

5) What about food costs?

Teachers throughout BC who have taken one of our workshops are eligible to apply for one of our mini-food grants. Haven’t taken a workshop? It only takes about an hour. Find out more about how to take a workshop.

6) Curriculum Links

Linking food to nutrition education lesson plans and programs covers the Big Ideas and Learning Standards in the Physical and Health Education BC curriculum and can also link to most other subject areas.

7) Thinking Big

If resources are available at your school, stocking a mobile cooking cart for many classes to enjoy is a wonderful addition. If properly cared for, it can last for years! One option is to connect with your Parent Advisory Council for available funds.