Calgary foodie offers free online cooking classes for kids and parents during extended holiday break
Posted Jan 6, 2022 10:59 am.
Last Updated Jan 6, 2022 11:02 am.
Well-known cook Julie Van Rosendaal has a new legion of fans after hosting daily online cooking classes for kids across the country.
“I know what it’s like to have a young child and have to keep them busy. I can not imagine keeping kids occupied and entertained when it is 30 below and they can’t go outside. I feel for parents. So, I thought it is something I can do.”
Parents, I feel for you-I know what it's like to keep young kids busy, and I can't imagine not being able to go places, have friends over, or go to the park when it's -30. With schools closed I'm setting up a free zoom cooking camp for the rest of this week.. stay tuned.
— Julie Van Rosendaal (@dinnerwithjulie) January 3, 2022
Van Rosendaal was expecting a few families to take up her offer, but instead, 1,000 kids from Newfoundland to British Columbia, joined the first class.
“We will do it every day. So there is something to look forward to and anchor the day.”
Jodi Stapley’s two sons joined in on the fun making butter tarts and cinnamon buns.
“Following Christmas, everything was getting old. And it is just so cold to go outside and play. So having something different and engaging was so nice.”
For Diana Wark it was a way for her son Roman to connect with other kids, the thing he missed most about going to school.
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“Being around your friends and doing that social piece has been really hard for kids in the last couple of years and just trying to stay connected to people. So, it was fun to see all the kids in Julie’s online baking class.”
Van Rosendaal hopes these classes spark some learning, but also a love for cooking.
“I think it’s important that we develop a love of cooking early on, and fond memories of the kitchen.”
You can learn more about her classes here.
