The Creative Problem Solvers series is part of The Tales from the Porch: Expanding Perspectives Project, created and designed by Aitina Fareed-Cooke in order to expand perspectives and build empathy through hands-on digital storytelling and literary arts engagements. This series looks to empower 3rd–5th graders to use the creative arts to tackle real-world problems while developing essential skills for school and life.

Registration is open for two opportunities this fall, with the option to attend one or both sessions. The program is proudly funded and supported by Buffalo’s Poet Laureate Aitina Fareed-Cooke, Get Fokus’d Productions, Youth Time Foundation DAF, and Arts Services Inc.

The Creative Problem Solvers Series: From Mise en Place to Masterpiece: Women Chefs Who Made History

A hands-on, interactive celebration of women chefs and culinary innovation. Students explore famous female cooks, improvise recipes, and bake together while discovering the stories behind the flavors.

What we will do:

• A hands-on, four-station journey celebrating women in cooking through interactive play and teamwork.

• Students decode culinary vocabulary, learn from renowned women chefs, design and bake a dessert with a hidden element.

• Students reflect on collaboration and growth.

• The session culminates in take-home desserts and a closing discussion that ties history to practical kitchen skills.

Tools we will use:

• Mise en place setup (prep bowls, measuring cups, spoons)

• Baking equipment (mixing bowls, mixers, baking sheets, oven-safe pans)

• Recipe templates with slots for ingredients

• Visual prompts and name cards for chefs

• Writing/drawing materials for dessert design and storytelling

Why it helps:

• Builds culinary vocabulary and practical kitchen skills (mise en place, creaming method, etc.)

• Highlights diverse contributions of women in cooking and fosters respect and inspiration

• Encourages creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving through hands-on project work

Special ‘fokus’: Foundation for life

• Emphasis on women chefs who shaped culinary history

• Inclusive, collaborative group work

• Clear, structured objectives with hands-on demonstrations

• Allergy note: peanut-free environment

Take-home support:

• Each student leaves with a finished dessert and a tasting guide from the chef

• Reflection notes on teamwork, challenges, and lessons learned

• Short summary of the featured chefs and key contributions

• Tips for at-home cooking and future recipe design

This series is funded and supported by: Aitina Fareed-Cooke/The Creative Arts Strategist, Get Fokus’d Productions, Youth Time Foundation DAF, & Arts Services Inc.