The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.113)

2019 • 08 30 pecial Feature Little chefs in action By Tan Kim Hion Photograph by Lou Siew Mee A t the charity fair in Mines 2, Seri Kembangan, the young ones from Da Ai KindergartenPandan Indah were enthusiastic and full of energy, commanding the attention of visitors by promoting their freshly- prepared vegetarian fare, which included pizza, toast and sandwiches. They reassured curious onlookers that the ingredients were wholly vegetarian – down to the chunks of “ham” and “chicken” in the sandwich fillings, which were actually made of mock meat. The pizza slices were garnished with generous helpings of toppings consisting of fruits and vegetables in assorted colours. The items on the menu were all made to order to ensure the customers’ peace of mind. TanYing Zhee, a teacher at the Kindergarten, was on hand to guide her young charges through their charity fair outing. The teachers were actively involved in the project, working closely with the students to craft the perfect recipes through trial and error. Despite countless failed attempts, the students were unfazed and persevered in refining the recipes until the desired outcome had been achieved. Prior to the charity fair, the students were tutored in the basics of hospitality and social etiquette. The students independently took charge of all aspects of their entrepreneurial venture, from introducing the menu to customers and taking orders, to collecting coupons and serving customers, with minimal assistance from parents and teachers. The students’ parents were equally supportive, offering to bake chocolate cookies and brew herbal tea for the charitable cause. One of the students, Lim Jia Xian, was inspired by a series of interactive lessons conducted in class that offered glimpses into the work of a chef. During the lessons, the students learnt fundamental culinary skills and other practical know-how, such as handling a knife and identifying various types of fruits and vegetables. The kindergarteners’ eagerness to learn and well-mannered disposition are a fitting testament to the advantages of Tzu Chi’s tradition of education rooted in humanistic values, shaping well-rounded individuals with perceptive minds and kind hearts.