What can we do with this pumpkin?

Chatter from Elliott’s home about decorating pumpkins led to a discussion about whether or not pumpkins were just for decorating.  We explained how in the past we have cooked and eaten a pumpkin.  The children were intrigued so we decided to try it again. 

What can we do with this pumpkin?

Sofia – We could roll it. We could paint it.
Charlotte – Put a face on it.
Avery – We can do a scary face and light it up.
Parker – It’s a giant one.
Elliott – We decided we could eat the pumpkin.

Can we eat it just the way it is?

Julia – Cut it.

What’s inside it?

Parker – seeds

What should we do with the seeds?

Parker – Take them out. Cook them.
Sofia – I don’t like them.
Tait – We have pumpkins in our garden on our road,                    Concord Road.

We read the book Pumpkin Circle – The Story of a Garden by George Levenson and we were thrilled to discover a pumpkin growing in the LNS garden.

During these early weeks of so much newness the children are each becoming comfortable in his or her unique way. With all the new faces, new routines, new surroundings, it’s wonderful to see so many of them coming together over the comforting and familiar language of cooking and food. Our work with pumpkins continues after Case’s suggestion of making pumpkin cookies was met with a resounding YES!