Cooking away time in the forest
There’s something special about cooking outdoors. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the experience. The crackle of a fire, the simplest ingredients, and the feeling of open skies overhead all come together to create a sense of connection and fun.
This week’s after-school session captured exactly that as we spent a sunny afternoon making pancakes in the great outdoors.
The children dove straight in, excited to be part of the process. Mixing the pancake batter was one of the first jobs, and it didn’t take long for their laughter to begin to stir up too. Some carefully measured and poured, while others enthusiastically whisked, adding a little extra energy to the mix!
The fire itself became its own project. A few children took on the task of lighting it, eagerly honing the skills they've learned over the last few months, practicing how to nurture the small flames until they grew steady. Others stepped in to keep it going, carefully tending the fire to ensure it was just right for cooking while some helped create more kindling for the "stove".
Watching them work together, take turns, and share skills was a joy to see.
But it wasn't only about the pancakes or the fire. The session unfolded at its own pace, and the children filled the "in-between" moments in their own way. Some got creative with crafting, making treasure maps from the natural materials around them. Others found a comfortable spot to sit and chat, soaking up the warmth of the sunny afternoon. It was a perfect mix of activity and ease, where everyone found something that felt just right for them.
And then, of course, there were the pancakes! Carefully poured batter sizzled on the pan, patiently waiting, but filling the air with a mouthwatering aroma. There’s no better reward for a bit of effort than biting into a freshly made pancake, still warm and a little crisp around the edges!
One of the things we are helping the children to learn is that there’s no rush, no big agenda—just time to enjoy being outdoors. Sometimes, their greatest learning is just being, well, that's it, just being.
It’s not about constant lessons but about letting the kids find their way to connect with the space, the activity, and each other. And this sunny pancake session? It served up exactly the right blend of fun, learning, and relaxation.
Looking back, it’s clear that outdoor cooking isn’t just about food. It’s about teamwork, patience, and enjoying the moment. With a fire crackling away, sunshine on their faces, and heaps of laughter, the children didn’t just make pancakes—they were having fun outside. And sometimes, that is all they need.
