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It’s been said that “the way to the heart is through the stomach,” and that just might be true when it comes to kids. My kids seem to be way more excited and interested in just about anything if it involves snacks!
So I’m planning to make a few special recipes this Holy Week to help my kids understand the special events going on this week. Some are tied to the events of specific days, while others could work for any day this week. But they’re all tasty, and they’ll all help kids connect the dots to understand the Easter story!
Any day: Pretzels
Did you know that pretzels are a traditional Lenten food?
When early Christians would pray, they would cross their arms and touch each shoulder with the opposite hand. They also fasted very strictly during Lent, making their bread with only water, flour, and salt. A monk shaped this in the form of praying arms for children, and the pretzel was born!
Here’s a simple pretzel recipe and prayer poem to go with it!
Holy Thursday: Unleavened bread
This Holy Thursday, I’m planning to talk to my kids about the meaning of the Jewish Passover and what happened at the Last Supper. We’ll read about Holy Thursday in their children’s Bible, and we might watch Prince of Egypt to bring to life the story of Passover.
Another way to explain Passover and the Last Supper is to make and eat some unleavened bread, like in the story. I found this recipe that Maria von Trapp used to use (yes, that Maria von Trapp!) and it looks simple and yummy.
Good Friday: Hot cross buns
The traditional Good Friday recipe invites some good conversation about its meaning and symbolism. (Adults who are fasting may prefer to save this snack for Saturday, but the children can eat it today.) I use the Tasha Tudor recipe, and I’ve also heard good reviews of the Pioneer Woman version.
Easter Treats
On Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, or any day of Easter week, these treats are a fun and memorable way to bring to life the story of the first Easter:
Chocolate crown of thorns
My kids love pretzels and chocolate, so this recipe is one I plan to make this year. It also seems super easy, although probably pretty messy, but that adds to the fun.
Resurrection rolls
I love the idea of these sweet rolls that carry a hidden message. Lacy from Catholic Icing explains,
These are rolls made with marshmallows in the middle. When the marshmallow melts away, and “empty tomb” is left in the middle of the roll, which is a fun way to bring religion into Easter for kids.
She shares a recipe for resurrection rolls using colored marshmallow Peeps, creating a pretty rainbow effect that’s very appropriate for Easter.
Resurrection cookies
These resurrection cookies are a similar concept to the resurrection rolls. Every step and every ingredient have a symbolic meaning.
Hope you and your family enjoy these recipes and find them a helpful way to honor Holy Week!
And today we celebrate...