Lesson: The Difference 1 Can Make

Teach kids that small efforts make a big difference by helping them to collect and count out bundles of 100 Box Tops. Each Box Top is worth 10¢, so a complete bundle equals $10.00 for your school! For more information on Box Tops, visit www.boxtops4education.com

Have kids help demonstrate what a big deal misreading a recipe can be: for example, mistaking baking soda and baking powder. To do this, you’ll need two small bowls, two tablespoons vinegar, one teaspoon baking soda and one teaspoon baking powder. First, place one tablespoon of vinegar in each bowl. Next, help your child carefully add the baking powder to one, and the baking soda to the other. Finally, explain to your child the differences: baking soda releases carbon dioxide which helps dough rise, while baking powder increases volume and lightens the texture of cakes and muffins.

NOTE: Depending on the size of the bowls, the mixture may overflow. For easy cleanup place the bowls on a cookie sheet before combining ingredients.

To show kids what a difference five minutes can make, set a timer for five minutes before the suggested backing time. When the timer goes off, carefully poke a toothpick in the middle of the cake to test doneness. Share the results with your child. Next, perform the same test five minutes later, when the cake is done. Finally, compare the two toothpicks to see exactly what a difference five minutes makes.

NOTE: The toothpick test should be performed by adults only.

Have kids create and color a Box Tops collection container to bring it to a nursing home, local business or parent’s office. The more people who clip, the more Box Tops you can collect for your school. Every Box Top makes a difference!