Program Description

Program Title:

Hands-On Cooking & Home Economics Club:

“Whisk Takers”

Program Type:

Home Education Enrichment Instruction – Culinary Arts & Life Skills

Program Description:

The Hands-On Cooking & Home Economics Club is a comprehensive, in-person instructional

program designed to teach homeschool students essential culinary and domestic life skills.

Rooted in hands-on learning, this course promotes self-sufficiency, responsibility, critical

thinking, and practical application of academic concepts through cooking and home economics.

This club is structured as an enrichment program meeting twice per month (every 3rd Tuesday

and Thursday), with the potential for expansion to weekly sessions depending on demand. Each

session runs for 2.5 hours, including instruction, cooking/baking practice, group collaboration,

and cleanup. This timeframe provides students the opportunity to gain real-world experience

through structured tasks in a fully equipped learning environment.

Target Age Group:

Homeschool students ages __10_ to _ 17__

Maximum Enrollment:

15 students per class to ensure a safe, focused, and high-quality learning environment.

Program Goals & Objectives:

• Culinary Literacy: Teach foundational cooking and baking techniques including

measuring, sautéing, boiling, kneading, baking, and basic knife skills.

• Health & Nutrition Awareness: Promote understanding of balanced meals, food groups,

and how cooking at home contributes to a healthy lifestyle.

• Life Skills Development: Instill practical skills such as food budgeting, time

management, cleanliness, safety, meal planning, and teamwork.

• Home Economics Integration: Introduce core principles of home economics such as

menu creation, food safety, proper food storage, household management, and etiquette.

• Cross-Curricular Learning: Reinforce academic skills in math (measuring, ratios),

science (chemical reactions in baking), and reading comprehension (recipes and

instructions).

Instructional Approach:

This program uses a project-based and experiential learning approach, where students are

actively engaged in hands-on cooking and baking activities. Each session includes a short

instructional lesson, practical demonstration, and small group cooking projects under the

supervision of the instructor. Students learn by doing and receive direct feedback throughout the

class.

Instruction also incorporates:

• Visual aids and printed materials

• Group discussions

• Independent practice

• Real-time troubleshooting and problem-solving

• End-of-session reflections to reinforce learning

Supplies and Materials:

All necessary materials are provided, including:

• Fresh ingredients

• Cooking utensils and tools

• Protective wear (aprons, gloves, etc.)

• Cleaning supplies

Students will receive printed recipes and optional take-home challenges to reinforce learning at

home with family.

Schedule & Fees:

• Classes: Every 3rd Tuesday & Thursday

• Time: 2.5 hours per class

• Cost: $55 per student, per session (includes all materials)

• Scholarship Accepted: Step Up for Students

Outcomes & Benefits:

By the end of the program, students will:

• Demonstrate competence in preparing a variety of meals and baked goods.

• Exhibit proper kitchen safety and sanitation practices.

• Understand how to read, follow, and eventually modify recipes.

• Show increased independence, confidence, and responsibility.

• Develop transferable skills applicable in future academic, home, and work environments.