Pancake Day (also known as Shrove Tuesday) is a hugely popular day in the UK because it’s filled with scrummy food! In Early Years settings, Pancake Day offers a fun, interactive way to explore cultural traditions, cooking activities, and sensory play, while also introducing children to the concept of Lent and the idea of giving something up.
A Brief History of Pancake Day
Pancake Day, or Shrove Tuesday, has its roots in the Christian tradition as the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent, 40 days of fasting leading up to Easter.
Historically, pancake day was a time to use up rich ingredients like eggs, milk, and sugar which were traditionally avoided during Lent, leading to the custom of making pancakes.
Today, Pancake Day is celebrated with the making and eating of pancakes, often accompanied by family gatherings, community events, and fun in early years settings. In some places, pancake races and flipping contests add a playful element to the festivities, continuing the tradition with a modern twist.
Learning and Development Through Pancake Day
Pancake Day provides a unique hands-on experience that stimulates multiple senses. Children can touch, smell, and taste the ingredients, creating a wonderfully rich sensory experience. The process of making pancakes with children can help develop:
Fine Motor Skills
Stirring, pouring, and maybe even flipping pancakes help refine children’s hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
Math Skills
Measuring ingredients introduces basic concepts of volume and quantity while counting scoops or spoonfuls enhances number recognition.
Language Skills
Following a recipe can enhance vocabulary as children learn new words related to cooking and ingredients.
Social Skills
Cooking together encourages teamwork, sharing, and taking turns, fostering a sense of community.
Easy Pancake Recipe for Early Years Settings
Engaging young children in pancake-making can offer numerous learning opportunities. Let’s dive into how to make simple, delicious pancakes with children!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 cup milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- 1 tbsp oil or melted butter
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar (if using), milk, egg, and oil or melted butter until smooth.
- Heat the Pan: Lightly grease a non-stick frying pan and heat it over medium heat.
- Cook the Pancakes: Pour a small amount of batter into the pan, spreading it out into a circle. Cook for about 1-2 minutes on one side until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook for another minute.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the pancakes cool slightly before serving to the children.
Topping Ideas for Little Tummies
Encourage creativity and choice by offering a variety of pancake toppings. Here are some healthy and fun options for children:
- Fruit: Sliced bananas, strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add natural sweetness and colour.
- Yoghurt: A dollop of plain or flavoured yoghurt can be a creamy addition.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a small amount of honey or maple syrup. (Although don’t give this to any children under 1 year of age)
- Nut Butter: Spread a thin layer of peanut or almond butter for a protein boost.
- Sprinkles: A few colourful sprinkles can make pancakes more festive and exciting.
- Cinnamon and Sugar: A light dusting of cinnamon and sugar provides a classic and comforting flavour.
Pancake Day in Early Years settings is more than just a treat; it’s a rich, educational experience that children will eagerly participate in. By engaging them in the cooking process and offering a variety of topping choices, practitioners can create a memorable and delicious learning opportunity.
Sharing Pancake Day Fun
Share little ones’ Pancake Day fun with eylog, a simple way to observe and record the early development milestones and daily events that happen in your early years setting. To find out more, book a free demo.
Happy Pancake Day!
