Make Waves: Your Guide to a Paper Plate Whale Craft for Kids

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Why Crafts are More Than Just Fun: The I'm the Chef Too! Philosophy
3. The Marvel of Whales: Inspiring Curiosity Through Craft
4. Gathering Your Ocean Treasures: Supplies for Your Paper Plate Whale
5. Setting Sail: Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Paper Plate Whale Craft
6. Deep Dive into Developmental Benefits: Beyond the Craft
7. Crafting Variations: Making Your Whale Unique
8. Beyond the Craft Table: Extending the Learning and Fun
9. Safety First: A Note on Adult Supervision
10. Making Learning a Lifelong Journey with I'm the Chef Too!
11. Conclusion
12. FAQ Section

Introduction

Imagine a world beneath the shimmering surface of the ocean, teeming with magnificent creatures that glide gracefully through the water. For children, the mystery and majesty of marine life, especially whales, spark an incredible sense of wonder and curiosity. This natural fascination provides a perfect springboard for engaging, hands-on learning experiences right at home. Today, we're diving deep into an activity that brings the magic of the ocean to your kitchen table: an adorable and educational paper plate whale craft for kids.

At I'm the Chef Too!, we believe that the most profound learning happens when children are truly immersed in an experience – when their hands are busy, their imaginations are soaring, and their senses are fully engaged. This simple yet profound craft embodies our mission to blend food, STEM, and the arts into one-of-a-kind "edutainment" experiences. Just like our culinary adventures turn complex science into delicious fun, this paper plate whale project offers a tangible way for kids to explore marine biology, art, and fine motor skills. Get ready to transform ordinary materials into an extraordinary ocean friend, fostering creativity, building confidence, and creating cherished family memories, all while keeping screens off and engagement high.

Why Crafts are More Than Just Fun: The I'm the Chef Too! Philosophy

We often hear from parents and educators seeking screen-free alternatives that genuinely capture a child's attention and offer real educational value. That's precisely why we pour our hearts into designing activities that are both thrilling and enriching. A paper plate whale craft for kids is a prime example of how everyday materials can become tools for incredible growth. It’s not just about gluing pieces together; it's about igniting a passion for discovery.

Think about it: when a child creates something with their own hands, they aren't just following instructions; they're problem-solving, planning, and expressing themselves. They're developing a sense of accomplishment that is truly invaluable. This hands-on approach mirrors our belief that learning should be an adventure. Whether it's crafting a paper plate whale or concocting edible geological formations with our Erupting Volcano Cakes kit, the tangible experience makes abstract concepts real and memorable. Our unique approach, developed by mothers and educators, ensures that every activity, from a simple craft to a gourmet STEM experiment, is designed to spark curiosity and creativity.

The Marvel of Whales: Inspiring Curiosity Through Craft

Before we even pick up our scissors and paintbrushes, let's talk about the stars of our show: whales! These gentle giants of the ocean are truly magnificent. Did you know that whales are mammals, just like us? They breathe air, give birth to live young, and even nurse their babies! From the enormous blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, to the acrobatic humpback whale known for its incredible songs and breaches, there's so much to learn.

Introducing these fascinating facts while crafting transforms a simple art project into a multidisciplinary learning experience. As children cut, paint, and glue, you can talk about:

• Marine Biology: Discuss different types of whales, their habitats, what they eat, and why they're important to ocean ecosystems.
• Anatomy: Identify the whale's fluke (tail), pectoral fins, blowhole, and baleen or teeth, depending on the species you're depicting.
• Conservation: Introduce the concept of protecting whales and their ocean home, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship.

This blend of art and science is at the core of what we do at I'm the Chef Too!. We believe that every moment can be a teachable moment, especially when wrapped in fun and creativity. Ready to bring these incredible creatures to life? Join The Chef's Club for a new educational adventure delivered to your door every month!

Gathering Your Ocean Treasures: Supplies for Your Paper Plate Whale

One of the best things about a paper plate whale craft for kids is how accessible and affordable the materials are. You likely have most of these items already stashed away in your craft drawer or pantry! This simplicity makes it a fantastic spontaneous activity for a rainy afternoon or a quiet weekend morning.

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own majestic whale:

• Paper Plates: The star of our show! Any size will do, but a standard dinner-sized plate works wonderfully for a substantial whale body. We always seem to have a stack of these on hand, perfect for impromptu crafting sessions!
• Blue Paint: Acrylic or washable tempera paint is ideal. Different shades of blue will add depth and realism, or let your child choose their favorite color for a fantastical whale!
• Paintbrush: One for each child participating helps prevent arguments and encourages individual expression.
• Construction Paper (Blue, Black, White, or various shades): This will be used for the whale's fins, tail, and water spouting from its blowhole. Having a variety of blues, grays, and even white (for the whale's belly) offers more creative options.
• Scissors: Child-safe scissors are a must. This is a great opportunity to practice cutting skills!
• White School Glue: The classic choice for paper crafts. A glue stick can also be used for smaller pieces, but liquid glue provides a stronger bond for the main components.
• Googly Eyes (Optional): These add so much personality and whimsy to any creature craft! If you don't have them, you can draw the eyes with a marker.
• Black Marker: For drawing the mouth, blowhole, or any other details.
• Newspaper or Craft Mat: Essential for protecting your workspace from paint and glue.
• Smock or Old T-shirt: To protect clothing from enthusiastic painters.

Pro Tip for Parents: Gather all your supplies before you start. A tidy, organized workspace sets the stage for a smooth and enjoyable crafting session, minimizing interruptions and maximizing creative flow. Just like our Chef's Club kits arrive with pre-measured dry ingredients and specialty supplies, having everything ready makes the experience stress-free and fun!

Setting Sail: Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Paper Plate Whale Craft

Now for the fun part! This paper plate whale craft for kids is wonderfully adaptable for various age groups, from preschoolers to early elementary students, with adult assistance. Remember, the journey of creation is just as important as the final product. Encourage your child's unique interpretation!

Step 1: Painting the Ocean Blue (or Any Color!)

• Prepare Your Workspace: Lay down newspaper or a craft mat. Get those smocks on!
• Paint the Paper Plate: Hand your child a paper plate and their chosen blue paint. Encourage them to paint the entire surface of one side of the paper plate. This is a fantastic opportunity for sensory exploration and developing gross motor skills as they swirl and spread the paint. Discuss different shades of blue – "ocean blue," "sky blue," "deep sea blue."
• Allow to Dry: This step requires patience! Set the painted plate aside in a safe spot to dry completely. Depending on the type of paint and how thickly it's applied, this could take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours. This is a perfect moment for a quick story about whales or to prepare the next components.

Step 2: Crafting the Whale's Features

While the paint is drying, you can work on cutting out the other parts of your whale. This is where fine motor skills and scissor practice come into play!

• The Whale's Tail (Fluke): On blue or gray construction paper, draw a whale's tail shape. Think of a wide "W" or a heart shape turned sideways. Encourage your child to cut it out. If they're younger, you can draw it and have them cut along the lines, or you can do the cutting for them.
• The Whale's Fins (Pectoral Fins): Draw two small, oval or tear-drop shapes on blue or gray construction paper for the side fins. Again, assist with cutting as needed.
• Water Spout (Optional but highly recommended!): On light blue or white construction paper, draw a wavy, cloud-like shape or several teardrop shapes to represent the water spouting from the whale's blowhole. This adds a dynamic element to your craft!
• Whale's Belly (Optional): For added detail, cut a long, curved strip of lighter blue or white construction paper. This can be glued to the bottom of the main whale body later.

Step 3: Shaping the Whale's Body

Once the blue paint on the paper plate is completely dry, it's time to transform it into the whale's distinctive shape.

• Cut the Paper Plate: This step often requires adult assistance. Gently fold the dry painted paper plate in half, or simply eyeball a curved line from one side of the plate to the other, creating a humpback-like shape. Cut along this line. You'll now have two pieces. One will be the main body of your whale, and the other piece can be used for other crafts or as an additional fin if desired. The larger, more curved piece usually makes the best whale body.
• Form the Head: If your chosen piece is long, you might want to trim one end slightly to resemble a whale's head, perhaps a bit rounder or slightly tapered.

Step 4: Assembling Your Ocean Friend

Now for the exciting part – bringing all the pieces together! This is where the whale truly starts to take shape.

• Attach the Tail: Apply glue to the straight edge of your whale's tail piece. Glue it to the back (the narrower end) of your painted paper plate whale body. You can glue it to the top or the bottom, depending on how you want your whale to "swim." Press firmly and hold for a few seconds.
• Add the Fins: Glue the two pectoral fins to the sides of the whale's body, near the front (head) end. These can be glued flat or just at the top edge, allowing the rest of the fin to stick out slightly for a 3D effect.
• Attach the Water Spout: Glue the water spout piece(s) to the top of the whale's head, creating the illusion of it blowing water from its blowhole. This is a wonderful opportunity to discuss why whales spout water – it's actually warm, moist air from their lungs!
• Glue on the Googly Eye(s): If using googly eyes, glue one (or two, depending on if you're making a side-view or a more front-facing whale) onto the whale's head. Place it near the front, above where the mouth will be.
• Draw the Mouth and Other Details: Using your black marker, draw a gentle, curved smile for your whale's mouth. You can also draw a small circle for the blowhole near the spout, or add details like lines for baleen (if depicting a filter-feeding whale) or spots. If you added a belly strip, glue that along the bottom curve now.

Step 5: The Grand Finale!

• Allow to Dry: Let all the glue dry completely. This is crucial for the craft's stability.
• Display with Pride: Once dry, your child's beautiful paper plate whale is ready to be admired! Hang it on the wall, attach it to a mobile, or create an entire ocean scene with other crafts.

This whole process, from painting to assembly, fosters essential skills. From fine motor development in cutting and gluing to understanding sequences and following instructions, a simple paper plate whale craft for kids offers a wealth of learning opportunities. And just like we ensure our STEM cooking kits deliver a complete, engaging experience, having these steps clearly laid out helps families enjoy the process from start to finish.

Deep Dive into Developmental Benefits: Beyond the Craft

While crafting is undoubtedly fun, its benefits stretch far beyond just creating a pretty object. We, at I'm the Chef Too!, firmly believe in the power of hands-on activities to nurture holistic child development. A simple paper plate whale craft for kids can significantly contribute to a child's growth in several key areas:

• Fine Motor Skills Development:
  • Cutting: Using scissors strengthens hand muscles, improves hand-eye coordination, and refines precision.
  • Painting: Holding a paintbrush and making strokes builds dexterity and control.
  • Gluing: Squeezing a glue bottle and carefully positioning small pieces hones pincer grasp and fine motor control.
  • Why it matters: These skills are fundamental for tasks like writing, buttoning clothes, and using utensils.
• Cognitive Development:
  • Following Instructions: Children learn to listen, process, and execute multi-step directions.
  • Problem-Solving: What if the fin doesn't stick? How can we make the water spout look wavy? These small challenges encourage critical thinking and adaptation.
  • Sequencing: Understanding that painting comes before cutting, and cutting before gluing, teaches logical order.
  • Concept Introduction: Learning about whales, their parts, and their habitat expands vocabulary and general knowledge.
  • Why it matters: These are the building blocks of academic success and independent thought.
• Creativity and Self-Expression:
  • Choice and Imagination: Deciding on colors, shapes, and unique details allows children to express their individuality. Maybe their whale is purple with glitter! That's perfectly fine and encouraged.
  • Imaginative Play: Once the whale is complete, it can become a character in a story, fostering narrative skills and imaginative thinking.
  • Why it matters: Nurturing creativity helps children think outside the box, innovate, and find unique solutions in all aspects of life.
• Sensory Exploration:
  • Tactile: The feel of paint on fingers, the texture of paper, the stickiness of glue – these sensations stimulate sensory processing.
  • Visual: Exploring colors, shapes, and patterns engages visual discrimination.
  • Why it matters: Sensory experiences are vital for brain development, helping children understand and interact with their environment.
• Emotional Development and Confidence:
  • Sense of Accomplishment: Completing a project, especially one they can proudly display, boosts self-esteem.
  • Patience and Persistence: Waiting for paint to dry or carefully attaching small pieces teaches valuable lessons in patience.
  • Why it matters: Confident children are more likely to tackle new challenges and persevere through difficulties.
• Language and Communication Skills:
  • Discussion: Talking about whales, colors, steps, and observations enhances vocabulary and communication.
  • Storytelling: Encouraging children to tell a story about their whale fosters narrative and descriptive language.
  • Why it matters: Strong communication skills are essential for social interaction and academic learning.

This holistic approach to learning is something we champion at I'm the Chef Too!. Our edible adventures, like creating an entire galaxy with our Galaxy Donut Kit, are meticulously designed to deliver these same incredible benefits, blending delicious fun with profound educational outcomes. Whether it's crafting or cooking, the goal is always to provide tangible, hands-on experiences that ignite a lifelong love for learning.

Crafting Variations: Making Your Whale Unique

While the basic paper plate whale craft for kids is wonderful on its own, there are countless ways to customize and extend the activity, making it fresh and exciting every time. This encourages children to think creatively and embrace their artistic freedom.

Here are some ideas to inspire your next crafting session:

• Different Whale Species:
  • Humpback Whale: Instead of just blue, use a mix of blue-gray and white paint. Add a textured belly with curved lines drawn with a marker or by gluing on strips of white paper. Make the pectoral fins extra long and curved.
  • Orca (Killer Whale): Paint the plate black and white, cutting distinct white patches for the belly and eye-spots. Orcas are technically dolphins, but they are often grouped with whales and are equally captivating!
  • Narwhal: Paint it gray or mottled, and attach a long, twisted "tusk" made from a rolled-up piece of white paper or even a pipe cleaner.
• Textural Enhancements:
  • Bubble Wrap Printing: Before the paint dries, gently press bubble wrap onto the painted plate to create a textured, bubbly skin effect.
  • Glitter: A touch of blue or silver glitter can make the water spout sparkle or give the whale a magical shimmer.
  • Cotton Balls: Glue small cotton balls around the water spout to make it look fluffy and real.
  • Scrunched Tissue Paper: Glue scrunched blue tissue paper onto the water spout for a more voluminous look.
• Adding a Habitat:
  • Ocean Background: Glue the finished whale onto a larger piece of blue construction paper. Then, add construction paper seaweed, fish cutouts, or even painted "bubbles" around it.
  • Under the Sea Diorama: Use a shoebox turned on its side. Paint the inside blue, hang the whale from the top with string, and add sand (real or paper), shells, and other ocean elements to the bottom.
• Movable Parts:
  • Brads/Paper Fasteners: Instead of glue, attach the tail and fins with paper fasteners. This allows the parts to move, making the whale more interactive.
  • String: Punch a hole at the top of the whale and tie a string to hang it, creating a floating mobile.
• Storytelling Elements:
  • Whale Blowhole "Spray" Fun: Instead of cutting a fixed spout, cut thin strips of blue paper and curl them with scissors before gluing. This adds more movement. You could also attach small pieces of blue yarn for a fun, flowing spout!
  • Speech Bubble: Add a speech bubble next to the whale with a fun fact or what the whale is "saying."
  • Whale Pod: Create several whales of different sizes and colors to represent a pod.

Remember, the goal is to encourage experimentation and joy in the creative process. There's no "right" or "wrong" way to make art. These variations allow for endless possibilities, just as our array of single one-time kits offers a universe of unique culinary adventures for every child's interest. Dive into our full library of adventure kits to find the perfect theme for your little learner!

Beyond the Craft Table: Extending the Learning and Fun

The beauty of a simple craft like the paper plate whale is its potential to be a springboard for even more learning and engagement. Once the glue is dry and the whale is proudly displayed, the adventure doesn't have to end!

Here are some ideas for extending the fun and education:

• Ocean Story Time: Read books about whales and marine life. Some fantastic children's books include "The Snail and the Whale" by Julia Donaldson, "Hello, Ocean" by Pam Muñoz Ryan, or non-fiction books about ocean animals. This connects their craft to literature and expands their knowledge.
• Whale Watching (Documentaries!): Watch age-appropriate documentaries about whales. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat can deepen their appreciation and understanding. Many streaming services offer excellent nature documentaries.
• Sensory Bin Exploration: Create an "ocean" sensory bin using blue dyed rice or water, small plastic ocean animals, shells, and smooth stones. Your paper plate whale can even "swim" among them!
• Ocean-Themed Music and Movement: Play songs about the ocean or whales and encourage your child to move like a swimming whale, flapping their "fluke" (arms) and blowing "spouts" (puffed cheeks).
• Creative Writing/Drawing: Ask your child to draw a picture of their whale's day or write a short story about an adventure their whale had in the ocean. This boosts literacy and imaginative thinking.
• Science Experiments: Connect the craft to simple science experiments. For instance, discuss buoyancy with objects in water, or make "waves" in a tub of water to understand ocean movement. While our Erupting Volcano Cakes kit provides a thrilling chemical reaction, you can do simpler experiments at home to tie into the theme!
• Visit an Aquarium: If possible, a trip to a local aquarium can bring the marine world to life in an unforgettable way, allowing children to see real fish, sharks, and maybe even a whale (though large whales are typically in the wild!).
• Role-Playing: Use the paper plate whale as a puppet or a character in imaginative play. "What does your whale eat? Where does it live? Who are its friends?" This is excellent for social-emotional development and language skills. Even beloved characters like Peppa Pig can make learning fun, like when kids make Peppa Pig Muddy Puddle Cookie Pies – showing how imagination connects to every learning experience!

These extensions help reinforce the learning that began with the craft. They demonstrate that education isn't confined to textbooks; it's an ongoing, interactive process that flourishes through curiosity and hands-on engagement. Just as we design our kits to be a full adventure, we encourage families to explore the vast possibilities that stem from a single creative spark.

Safety First: A Note on Adult Supervision

As mothers and educators ourselves, we at I'm the Chef Too! always prioritize safety. While a paper plate whale craft is generally safe and simple, adult supervision is absolutely essential for all craft activities involving children.

Here are a few key safety considerations:

• Scissors: Always use child-safe scissors, and supervise closely during cutting. Teach proper scissor-holding techniques and emphasize cutting away from the body and fingers. For younger children, pre-cutting shapes is a great alternative.
• Paint: Ensure paints are non-toxic and washable. Set clear boundaries about where painting is allowed and how to properly clean brushes.
• Glue: Use non-toxic school glue. Remind children not to ingest glue and to wash their hands thoroughly after crafting.
• Small Parts (Googly Eyes): If crafting with very young children (under 3), be mindful of choking hazards. Googly eyes or other small embellishments should be firmly glued or omitted entirely, with eyes drawn on instead.
• Workspace: Ensure the crafting area is well-lit and free of trip hazards.
• Allergies: While not typically an issue with paper crafts, always be aware of any potential allergies your child might have to specific materials if you're introducing unusual items.

Our commitment to providing safe and enriching experiences extends to all activities, whether they're from one of our kits or a craft you undertake at home. We believe that a safe environment empowers children to explore, experiment, and learn without unnecessary risks.

Making Learning a Lifelong Journey with I'm the Chef Too!

The joy and learning derived from a simple paper plate whale craft for kids perfectly encapsulate our philosophy at I'm the Chef Too!. We understand that sparking curiosity and fostering a love for learning doesn't always require elaborate setups; often, it's the hands-on, tangible experiences that make the biggest impact.

Our mission is to empower children to explore the exciting worlds of food, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through engaging, creative, and delicious cooking adventures. We believe that by blending these elements with the arts, we create an "edutainment" experience that truly sticks. When children are actively involved in making something, whether it's a paper plate whale or an edible experiment from one of our kits, they are building confidence, developing critical skills, and creating lasting memories with their families.

We are dedicated to providing convenient, screen-free educational alternatives that bring families together. Our monthly Chef's Club subscription boxes are thoughtfully designed by mothers and educators to deliver everything you need for a unique learning journey right to your doorstep. Each box is a complete experience, containing pre-measured dry ingredients, specialty supplies, and easy-to-follow instructions, eliminating guesswork and maximizing fun.

Imagine the excitement of a new culinary adventure arriving every month! Whether you're looking for a delightful way to keep your children engaged, a unique gift, or simply want to explore the magic of hands-on learning, our subscription plans offer incredible value and flexibility. We offer 3, 6, and 12-month pre-paid plans, perfect for gifting or long-term enrichment, with free shipping in the US.

Don't let the learning stop here! Continue the adventure of discovery with experiences that are as delicious as they are educational. Ready for a new adventure every month? Join The Chef's Club and enjoy free shipping on every box!

Conclusion

From the vibrant colors of paint to the careful snip of scissors, creating a paper plate whale craft for kids is far more than just an art project. It's a journey into the depths of imagination, a lesson in marine biology, a workout for fine motor skills, and a precious opportunity for family bonding. We've explored how this simple activity ignites curiosity, fosters creativity, and provides a rich, screen-free learning experience, all while aligning with our core values at I'm the Chef Too!.

We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to dive into the world of crafting with your children, creating not just a charming whale, but also invaluable memories and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. Every snip, every stroke of paint, and every giggle contributes to a child's development, building confidence and a lifelong love for learning through hands-on exploration.

At I'm the Chef Too!, we are passionate about transforming learning into an exciting adventure, blending food, STEM, and the arts into unforgettable experiences. If you've enjoyed the journey of crafting this whale and are eager for more hands-on, educational fun, we invite you to explore the world of our unique STEM cooking kits.

Ready for a new adventure every month? Give the gift of learning that lasts all year and Join The Chef's Club today to receive free shipping on all your monthly boxes! Let's keep sparking curiosity and creating delicious, educational memories together!

FAQ Section

Q1: What age group is this paper plate whale craft best suited for? A1: This craft is highly adaptable! With significant adult assistance for cutting and gluing, preschoolers (ages 3-5) can enjoy the painting and basic assembly. Elementary-aged children (6-10) can typically complete most steps independently, especially with child-safe scissors, and can add more intricate details. Younger toddlers can participate by painting the plate, and an adult can handle the rest.

Q2: My child isn't very artistic. Will they still enjoy this craft? A2: Absolutely! The beauty of crafts like the paper plate whale is that there's no "right" or "wrong" way to create. Encourage your child to express themselves freely. The process of creating, exploring materials, and spending time together is far more important than achieving a perfect result. Focus on the effort and the joy of making something unique.

Q3: What if I don't have all the materials listed? Can I substitute? A3: Yes, creativity thrives on improvisation! If you don't have blue construction paper, any color will work, or you can even draw and color the fins and tail. No googly eyes? Draw them on with a marker! No blue paint? Use crayons, markers, or colored paper for the whale's body. The core idea is the paper plate and imagination.

Q4: How can I make this craft more eco-friendly? A4: You can make several eco-conscious choices. Use recycled paper plates (if they haven't been heavily used for food), repurpose other paper scraps for fins and tails, and opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly paints. After enjoying the craft, consider if parts can be recycled or composted, or if the whale can be kept for imaginative play rather than discarded.

Q5: My child gets paint everywhere! Any tips for mess management? A5: We understand! Mess is often part of the creative process. To minimize it: * Designate a "Mess Zone": Work on a table covered with newspaper, a craft mat, or an old tablecloth. * Wear Smocks: Old t-shirts or actual art smocks are lifesavers. * Small Portions: Dispense small amounts of paint onto a palette (like another paper plate) to reduce spills. You can always add more. * Wipes and Paper Towels: Keep them handy for quick cleanups. * Washable Paints: Opt for washable tempera or acrylic paints for easy cleanup from skin and most surfaces. * Remember, a little mess means a lot of fun!

Q6: How can I turn this into a group activity for a party or classroom? A6: This craft is excellent for groups! Pre-cut some of the more challenging shapes (like tails and fins) to save time and reduce frustration, especially for younger children. Set up stations for painting, cutting, and gluing to help with flow. Provide a variety of blue shades and embellishments to encourage individual expression. If you're looking for larger-scale, structured educational programs, we also offer versatile options for schools and groups, with or without food components. Learn more about our School & Group Programs designed to bring hands-on STEM adventures to any educational setting.

Q7: How do crafts like this connect to STEM learning, as I'm the Chef Too! emphasizes? A7: Crafts are surprisingly rich in STEM! * Science: Learning about whale anatomy, marine life, and habitats. Understanding paint properties (drying, mixing colors). * Technology: Using tools like scissors and paintbrushes effectively. * Engineering: Designing the whale's structure, understanding how pieces fit together, balancing parts. * Math: Recognizing shapes (circles, ovals), understanding symmetry, measuring (even by eye) for cuts. * The problem-solving, critical thinking, and iterative design inherent in crafting are all foundational STEM skills, just like in our cooking kits where kids learn about chemical reactions while baking or edible engineering while building.