Eight youth ranging in ages 8-13 took part in the “You’re The Chef” program in La Vallee during March break. The program ran for three days, March 17, 18 and 19, and was made possible by the Northwestern Health Unit (NWHU). The Municipality of LaVallee sponsored the Program.
Leaders were Lucille MacDonald, Pat Loshaw and Lisa Gregory.
Lucille and Pat had taken training, required to teach the “You’re The Chef” program.
Stella, Jill and Owen MacDonald, Audree-Lynn Drennan, Wyatt Olson, Camdyn McQuaker, Sloan Baird and Myalyn Wrolstad all participated with positive and inquisitive attitudes.
The days ranged from two to four hours long. The recipes that were prepared included taco casserole, minestrone soup, blueberry pancakes, a parfait, vegetarian chilli, broccoli and cheddar frittata, banana shake, fruit crisp and hummus with vegetables. Three to four different recipes were made each day. Meals were all about healthy food, with emphasis on low sodium. Learning about the different types of flour like whole-wheat, and including lots of vegetables were just two of the important food choices taught to the kids.
Knife safety and skills were also an important part of the teachings, as well as familiarizing the participants with kitchen utensils.
Much emphasis was put into hand washing and the wearing of aprons. A nice treat for all participants were the handmade aprons made by Pat Loshaw.
The kids had many favourite recipes, among them the golden blueberry pancakes and the perfect parfait.
This year’s event was held in the upstairs of the Municipal Office. Organizers are already looking forward to next years, “Your the Chef” program. It will be much more convenient having it in the Devlin Hall next year and the number of kids participating can be larger, as well as more adults helping.
As the last few hours before wrapping up the program, the leaders described the kids as wonderful, polite and a little rambunctious at times. The perfect mix for kids, cooking and spending three days of their March break!
One of the boys attending shared that he was sad because it was the last day, and he had so much fun!
