In the afterschool program, the children showed an interest in the dramatic play centre that is in the classroom. James M and Nikko were sorting our food which led to them acting out having a meal and sharing together. This action sparked creativity in the group, “Let’s do a restaurant,” Geetan and Nikko said.
They began putting items together to represent their new dining experience. Peers gathered to be a part of the restaurant, curios as to what was going to be served.
“Please line up at the entrance of the restaurant. We are not ready to open and we will let you know when we do.” Geetan announced while Nikko was doing the preparations. Children began to line up in anticipation, having conversations about their days at school while in the line.
As food began to circulate, and they discussed where they would pay, a menu begun to emerge. Geetan got to work on beginning to create the menu. We sat in a group and began brainstorming the types of food we could serve. The children added some of their favourite items to the list and it was great to see that all ideas were being taken into consideration.
Once they were ready, they opened for business. More “workers” began to take orders while others were in the payment area. They were creative and used the magnet tiles as cash. “That will be $20.00 please,” said Geetan. Catherine pretended to pay her dues and she was thanked for doing so.
Educator Janeth joined in the and began to ask them questions. “What do you think you still need for your restaurant?” “Oh, maybe a cash register,” Cari said, “But then we need some money,” Olivia chimed in. The next day, the educators were able to provide them with the cash register, money, another pan for cooking and some measuring spoons. There was excitement in the children and they began to prepare their restaurant for opening once again. “I can be serving the people today,” said Cari. Nikko thought that would be a good idea while he prepared the meals. Creativity continued to emerge and they created signs for their fine dining experience and decorated their space.
This engaging activity has allowed for the school age children to participate in cooperative play, sharing ideas, and connecting with each other. Language and social interactions are developed through cooperation and the conversations that the children have, strengthening relationships which helps them problem solve in other areas.
As they continue to explore this new-found interest we wonder what else this restaurant will bring. Will they engage in making their own recipes? Or perhaps expanding it to the children in the preschool room or to the parents? We look forward to seeing where this will take the group.
