Good nutrition fuels children’s growth and learning. That’s why we’ve partnered with the Culinary Health Education for Families (CHEF) program to inspire families to embrace healthy and flavorful eating habits. Today, we’re sharing a simple, refreshing recipe that the whole family can enjoy: Orange, Strawberry, and Basil Infused Water.

Why Infused Water?

Staying hydrated is essential for children and adults alike, but plain water can feel, well, plain! Infused water offers a natural, delicious alternative to sugary beverages by adding subtle fruit and herb flavors without any added sugar. The combination of oranges, strawberries, and basil creates a vibrant, refreshing drink that’s perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Water
• Oranges
• Strawberries
• Fresh basil leaves

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Instructions:

1. Start by thoroughly washing the oranges and strawberries under cool running water. This will help remove any dirt or residue. Then, pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Slice the oranges into quarters or round slices and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters, depending on their size.
3. Pour water into a cup, pitcher, or your favorite container. Use enough water to fully submerge the fruit and basil.
4. Using tongs, pick up one orange slice and gently place it into the water. The orange will add a burst of citrusy sweetness to the drink.
5. Next, use the tongs to grab two sliced strawberries and add them to the water. These will add another hint of natural, fruity flavor.
6. Take a few fresh basil leaves, rub them gently between your fingers to release their natural oils, and enjoy the aromatic scent. Then, drop the basil leaves into the water and gently stir the mixture.
7. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse fully. For more flavor, refrigerate the infused water and let it steep for a few hours.
8. Sip and enjoy your refreshing infused water.

Discover More with CHEF and Pre-K 4 SA 

This recipe is just one example of how the CHEF partnership empowers families to make healthy eating enjoyable and accessible. By introducing new flavors and fun preparation methods, we’re helping children build a strong foundation for lifelong health and wellness.

At Pre-K 4 SA, nutrition and learning go hand in hand. This Trail Mix recipe is perfect for little hands to help create, making snack prep an engaging activity that promotes healthy eating habits. It’s also packed with wholesome ingredients that provide a balance of flavors and nutrients to keep your children fueled throughout their day of exploration and learning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Wheat Chex (¼ cup)
• Kix (¼ cup)
• Coconut flakes (1 tablespoon)
• Raisins (1 tablespoon)
• Dark Chocolate Chips (1 tablespoon)
• Pumpkin Seeds (1 tablespoon)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Workspace
   Begin by gathering all your ingredients and measuring tools. Set out a clean surface where you can easily mix and assemble the trail mix
2. Start with the Base
   Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop Wheat Chex and carefully pour it into a small resealable bag or container. Encourage children to hold the measuring cup steady and pour slowly to prevent spills.
3. Add the Second Layer
   Measure 1/4 cup of Kix cereal and add it to the bag with the Wheat Chex. 
4. Incorporate Coconut Flakes
   Using a tablespoon, measure 1 tablespoon of coconut flakes. Sprinkle the flakes over the cereal mixture in the bag. Discuss how coconut elevates both the texture and taste of the trail mix.
5. Sweeten with Raisins
   Measure 1 tablespoon of raisins. Add them to the bag and encourage children to observe how the raisins add color and chewy sweetness to the mix.
6. Add a Touch of Chocolate
   Using the same tablespoon, measure 1 tablespoon of dark chocolate chips. Carefully drop them into the bag, discussing how chocolate can be a treat while still nutritious.
7. Boost with Pumpkin Seeds
   Measure 1 tablespoon of pumpkin seeds and pour them into the bag.
8. Seal and Mix
   Once all the ingredients are in the bag, seal it tightly. Shake the bag gently to mix the ingredients evenly. This step is a fun way for children to get involved and see the trail mix come together.
9. Taste and Enjoy
   Open the bag and let your child taste their creation. Discuss their favorite parts of the mix and how each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture.

Pre-K 4 SA’s partnership with CHEF is transforming healthy eating into an engaging and accessible experience for families. By introducing creative cooking techniques and vibrant new flavors, children are developing lifelong habits that nurture their health and overall well-being.

Cooking with your child is a fun activity and a valuable learning experience. Through recipes like Dill Pickle Dip, children can develop essential skills like following instructions, measuring ingredients, and exploring new flavors.

Today, we’re embarking on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Mexico with our CHEF Partnership program. This month’s featured recipe is Tostadas Deliciosas – a colorful and exciting dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

At Pre-K 4 SA, we are committed to providing our young learners with a high-quality education and opportunities to explore and enjoy new experiences. Today, we’re delighted to share a delightful recipe from our CHEF Partnership program – Fun Fruit Pizza! This colorful and healthy treat is not only fun to make but also a delicious way to introduce kids to a variety of fruits. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delightful snack.

Before we get started, gather these simple ingredients:

• Half a banana
• A few strawberries
• A small handful of grapes
• A handful of blueberries
• 1 tablespoon of cream cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon of honey
• 1/8 teaspoon of vanilla
• 1 bread (such as tortilla, pita, pancake, or crepe)

Equipment:

• Knife
• Tablespoon
• ⅛ & ½ Teaspoon
• Plate

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Instructions:

1. Prep the Fruit:

Begin by washing all the fruits thoroughly. Then, slice half a banana and a few strawberries into thin rounds. Cut a small handful of grapes and blueberries into bite-size pieces. These colorful fruits will add a burst of flavor and nutrition to your fruit pizza.

2. Create the Cream Cheese Spread:

In a cup, place 1 tablespoon of cream cheese. Add 1/2 a teaspoon of honey into the same cup. Finally, add 1/8 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until they are smooth and spreadable. This creamy mixture will serve as the “sauce” for your fruit pizza.

3. Assemble the Fruit Pizza:

Take one tortilla, and with the back of a spoon, evenly spread the cream cheese mixture onto it. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the tortilla with this delicious and creamy base.

4. Add the Colorful Toppings:

Now comes the fun part! Sprinkle the colorful fruit slices and pieces onto the tortilla, covering the creamy spread evenly. Encourage your little ones to get creative and arrange the fruits in fun patterns or designs. Not only does this make the pizza visually appealing, but it also engages their creativity.

5. Slice and Serve:

Once the fruit is arranged to perfection, it’s time to enjoy your homemade Fun Fruit Pizza. Use a knife or a pizza cutter to divide the pizza into four equal slices. This way, everyone can have their share of this delightful treat.

Conclusion:

The Fun Fruit Pizza recipe is not just a tasty snack; it’s also a fantastic way to introduce young children to different fruits and flavors. The combination of creamy, sweet, and tangy elements creates a well-rounded taste that kids love. Plus, the vibrant colors make it visually appealing, making mealtime a joyful experience.

Our Super Berry Bowl is a tasty treat and a healthy and easy-to-make option for kids. This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients and is sure to be a hit with your little ones.