Aussie Childcare Network Forum

Your Assignment Module Number and Heading: CHCFC508A Foster children’s aesthetic and creative development
Your Assignment Type: Standard Question
Currently Working in Childcare? Yes
Your knowledge: Beginner

Your Question?
Should you use food in art experiences? Why or why not? If so, how will you do this in a respectful way?

What is your answer so far or What have you done so far as an attempt to solve this question?
I haven't seen food used for art experiences during my time at my current centre, apart from in play dough, I have however seen flour used as a sensory experience and pasta for threading. I don't really have an issue with it (within reason, don't waste it), and all my book says is "does this show disrespect for those who are hungry?".

Description and Message:
I'm not sure what my trainer is looking for. Any help is appreciated, thank you.

Hi SJW,
Educators at our centre use rice for sensory experiences, however we use rice that is past the useby date. I still feel guilty using it though. The children don't know that it is past the useby date.
Good luck with this one, I will be interested in what other educators say.
Jules

You may have to note on your assignment that for some cultures using food for things other than eating is not appropriate. also for families who may come from countries where food is not as readily available as it is in Aust may not feel comfortable with using food so you would need to be sensitive to this.
Another factor of course is allergies. If you have a child with an allergy to a certain grain etc you would not use this.
Hope this helps

Wow a very interesting article LA. Sure made me think about my own practices re food. Thanks for bringing it to my attention.

I'm not going to use food anymore for art activities. I'm also going to print the article for the other educators at our centre to read.