ABC and 123: A Learning Collaborative: Fall Treats You Can Make with Your Preschooler

Friday, October 7, 2011

Fall Treats You Can Make with Your Preschooler

Many thanks to Sarah Fudin for sharing this post with us! Sarah Fudin currently works in community relations for the University of Southern California's Master of Arts in Teaching program, which provides aspiring teachers the opportunity to earn a Masters degree in teaching and teaching credential online.  Outside of work Sarah enjoys running, reading and Pinkberry frozen yogurt.


The developmental years for children between the ages 2 and 5 are critical. During this time, children typically develop essential social skills, such as becoming aware of their identity, learning to take turns, cooperating with others, following rules and trying to solve problems, according to the Mayo Clinic.

However, children cannot develop these skills on their own. Simple activities, such as making treats with your preschooler outside of school time, can help your child reach the aforementioned milestones. Furthermore, baking with your preschooler will help your child gain a sense of accomplishment and feel as if they are contributing to the family, according to WebMD.

The following fall treats can be made with your preschooler as a fun activity that can help encourage proper development:

Apple Sauce
Which preschooler doesn’t like apple sauce? This recipe is easy enough for you and your preschooler to complete together, creating an invaluable learning experience, in addition to a tasty snack.

Rice Krispie Treats
This classic treat is not only easy to make, but your preschooler will also have a blast helping you make it.

Puppy Chow
Your preschooler will not only like this snack’s fun look and name, but will also love its incredible peanut butter and chocolate taste. As an added bonus, Puppy Chow is easy to make and does not require a lot of preparation time.

Sugar Cookies
Sugar Cookies are easy to make, taste great and present a multitude of decorating opportunities after the cookies are baked. Try decorating the cookies with icing in the shape of fall leaves or let your preschooler make their own custom creation.

No-Bake Cookies 
Preschoolers aren’t always the most patient chefs. With No-Bake Cookies, you and your little one will be able to prepare the cookies and enjoy them in no time.

Teddy Bear Cinnamon Rolls
Nothing says “fall” more than the smell of cinnamon. Teddy Bear Cinnamon Rolls combines the nostalgic smell and flavor of the spice with fun opportunities for decoration.

Pumpkin Cupcakes
Pumpkin Cupcakes are a great treat for Halloween and the rest of the fall season.

S’mores Pops
Now you and your preschooler can enjoy the savory taste of gram crackers, chocolate and marshmallow without the mess. S’mores Pops keeps the mess contained and provide small, bite-sized treats for your little one to enjoy.

Cheese Hammer & Towers
The old “don’t play with your food” rule goes right out the door with this fun snack. Cheese Hammer & Towers provide a playful building activity and snack, all in one.

Sweet Popcorn Snack Mix
Sweet Popcorn Snack Mix are just the right mix of salty and sweet for both you and your preschooler. Popcorn recipes are great to incorporate during Thanksgiving discussions to spark early learning.

Crunchy Caramel Corn
Crunchy Caramel Corn, another popcorn recipe, presents an array of textures and flavors for your preschooler to enjoy.
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Remember to use these baking adventures with your child as learning opportunities. Be caring and supportive during the process, and let your child know that he or she is doing a great job. Also use the time to talk to your child about other experiences, such as their favorite activity at preschool.

Note that there may be some steps in the recipes that are too advanced for your little one. Children under the age of five should stick with the following activities while you do the rest:
  • Scrub, dip, tear, break and snap
  • Shake, spread and cut with a cookie or biscuit cutter
  • Peel (some items), roll, juice and mash
  • Remove husks from corn
  • Wash vegetables in a colander
  • Measure and pour some ingredients
  • Hand mix

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