Small Bites Adventure Club and Wellstar Health System teamed up with Battery Atlanta Plaza this summer to host two interactive pop-up cooking classes (with VEGGIES!) for local Atlanta children. 

by Kealee Gallo, intern

The goal of these events was to introduce children to summer veggies and teach them how to make an easy snack: Rowdy Ranch Drip with Zucchini!

This summer marks the second summer collaborating with Wellstar.  Cecelia Patellis, Assistant VP of Brand Activation and Events, stated: “We want the kids to choose healthier options so this partnership is a great way to get them involved hands-on, learning how to make a recipe and how to get involved in the kitchen.”

The class kicked off with Wellstar Pediatrics’ Dr. Manpreet Dhillon, and Dr. WellBee, Wellstar’s adorable pollinator mascot came out to try a new food too!

Before we started making a new recipe, the children got a chance to meet a zucchini. The children had a chance to feel and describe the zucchini from the Small Bites Mystery Bag, engaging their senses and enhancing their exploration of different ingredients. They also practiced their fine motor skills by carefully picking parsley leaves to add a touch of freshness to their dish.

Safety is so important with hands-on cooking!  So, children washed their hands and kept them clean by cupping their hands together! When we worked with knives, we practiced the saw, the claw and the bridge! 

While following the recipe, the children demonstrated their mathematical skills and attention to detail. They measured spices and mixed ingredients, understanding the importance of accurate measurements for a perfectly balanced flavor. Each step of the process showcased their willingness to learn and their ability to share materials with their peers.

In the end, children got a chance to work together and explore new experiences. Most kids loved the zucchini sticks and ranch dip, but not all were converts. But, we know the most important part of the activity is that children had a chance to have fun with food- smelling it, cutting it, and trying it! 

"We love the mission of Small Bites Adventure Club. We have worked with Erin and her wonderful team for several years. You guys do such a great job being out here with us, helping the kids.

Partnerships are at the heart of our work at Small Bites Adventure Club. And, we’ve loved our partnership with Wellstar! See more photos here!

What recipe should we make next summer?

Small Bites Adventure Club provides turn-key resources to educators, enabling them to lead hands-on cooking experiences with fruits and veggies in the classroom.