This project is an example how spontaneous distractions can promote exploration and PLAY in the classroom. I am not even sure if the kids were aware of their youthfulness and playfulness this project brought out in them. I can only explain it as their "Inner Child"- and MINE- came out in class the days we collaged, frosted and designed cakes.
Totally not routine, but I decided to bring in cake for the kids to eat since talking about cake every day after lunch was causing mouths to salivate non-stop. It was a spontaneous decision, but I cut and plated the cake into pieces and prepped tables with slices before each class, allowing kids to eat the cake while reviewing directions for the day. The kids were like "WHA-WHAT???" From an outsider, the cake eating could have been viewed as a distraction- but in my opinion, not all "distractions" are negative. I feel that eating cake was completely relative to their learning and served as an invitation to let our hair down and explore with the mediums and design elements of the project!
Kids LOVED frosting their cake! At first I thought I would formally teach cake frosting, but decided against it to allow kids to explore with the shaving cream and glue medium. Some kids had never frosted a cake before so this was truly their first experience with this culinary delight! Kids experimented with mixing food coloring to get just the perfect shade for their frosting. Some other students modified zip-locks into piping bags and began piping elaborate designs. Other students rolled paper to make decorations like shaved chocolate, fruit and sprinkles. The students learned from each-other through their exploration and play!
As a teacher, I hope to incorporate more experiences of spontaneity, play and exploration that can result in a high level of engagement and some amazing artwork. Oh- The Power of Cake!
