​​​​​✨ Life Skills Cooking Program ✨

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At Watermelon Sessions, we believe learning should be joyful, hands-on, and inclusive. Our Life Skills Cooking Program invites students ages 6+ into a small-group setting where cooking, play, and connection come together. With a predictable weekly rhythm, sensory supports, and flexible approaches, every participant—regardless of ability or learning style—gets to participate meaningfully. From pretend shopping and budgeting to cooking, tasting, and rating their own creations, students build confidence, independence, and practical life skills while having fun with friends. Parents love that it’s both engaging and purposeful: real-world skills wrapped in play, laughter, and community.

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Where:

3467 Commercial Street, Vancouver​

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When: 

• Saturdays at 10:00 AM

• 6 weeks, starting January 10, 2026

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Ages: 6+

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Group Size: Small-group format (6–8 kids), with 2 adults (1 lead, 1 support).

One-on-one support available if needed.

 

Accessibility: Open to students of all abilities and learning styles. We use AAC, visuals, sensory supports, and flexible approaches so everyone can participate.

 

🌟 Weekly Magic: What Each Session Looks Like

We follow a fun, predictable structure each week so kids feel safe, know what to expect, and stay engaged and excited to participate:

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1. Welcome & Regulation ​

We begin by showing each participant a visual schedule for the day and letting them enjoy some free play.

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2. Shopping Role-Play​

Students get a shopping list and some play money. ‍ One teacher becomes the “shopkeeper”.

Participants shop for ingredients at our pretend market and pay at the cashier, building budgeting and decision-making skills through play!

 

3. Cooking Time!

Each student gets a visual recipe card with clear, easy-to-follow steps.

We work together to create something yummy and different every week!

 

4. Clean-Up Time

 Participants learn responsibility by tidying up their cooking space.

 Visual clean-up prompts make it simple and supportive.

 

5. Free Play & Food Set-Up

While students play, the teacher sets up the food tasting area.

Each student gets a plate with their creation, a fun rating sheet, and a take-home bag (if they want to pack up leftovers).

 

6. Taste Test & Rate the Recipe

Students try what they made and rate it using fun visuals (stars, smiley faces, thumbs up). ️ We chat about what we liked, what we’d change, building expressive language and personal preferences.

 

7. Free Play Before Pick-Up ‍

If time permits, students are welcome to socialize in a play area again before the pick up time. 

 

🍉 Why Parents Love It:

Hands-on & meaningful: Kids are doing real things in a fun way.

Inclusive: We welcome all learning styles and sensory needs. ​

FUN: Sensory play + cooking + pretend shopping + friends = a blast every week!

Practical: They’ll build skills for life without even realizing they’re learning!

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