This week's theme was Family and Neighborhoods, and our Chili Fundraiser provided the perfect opportunity for children to explore those concepts through hands-on, community-centered learning. All age groups participated in making bread from scratch and cooking chili outdoors over an open fire, blending real-world skills with meaningful developmental growth. 

As children measured ingredients, mixed, and kneaded dough, they strengthened fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and early math concepts such as counting, measuring, and sequencing. Following a recipe and working together encouraged language development, listening, and teamwork-skill essential to both family and neighborhood life. 

Cooking chili outdoors invited children to explore science and sensory learning as they observed ingredients transform with heat, discussed fire safety, and experienced the smells, textures, and warmth of the process. These moments encouraged curiosity and a deeper connection to the natural world. 

Most importantly, the activity fostered a strong sense of community and belonging. The children took pride in contributing to a shared meal, much like families and neighbors coming together to support one another. The Chili Fundraiser was not a successful event but also a joyful, nature-based learning experience that celebrated cooperation, connection, and the spirit of togetherness.