Just for Fun
Teaching "composting for kids" in the classroom and at home can be not only educational and fun, it can also provide some valuable information about good nutrition. In The Red Wriggler Teaching Manual on page "Science -15," there is an important lesson on the pH factor. Among other things, it raises awareness of the alkaline- and acid-forming properties of familiar foods.
Sweets are typically acid-forming, and too much acid in the diet is not good for worms or people. However, following is a recipe for a very colorful dessert with which a study of the red wriggler could be launched or ceremonially concluded. There probably will not be any leftovers. However, if there are, feed them in only modest amounts to the red wriggler.
Dirt Cups
- 1 package (16 ounces) chocolate sandwich cookies
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 package (4-serving size) JELL-O Chocolate Flavor Instant Pudding
Pie Filling
- 1 tub (8 ounces) Cool Whip Whipped Topping, thawed
- 8-10 (7-ounce) paper or plastic cups
Decorations: Gummy Worms
- CRUSH cookies in zipper-style plastic bag with rolling pin or in food processor.
- POUR milk into large bowl. Add pudding mix. Beat with wire whisk 1 or 2 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes. Stir in whipped topping and _ of the crushed cookies
- PLACE about 2 tablespoon crushed cookies into each cup. Fill cups about _ full with pudding mixture. Top with remaining crushed cookies.
- REFRIGERATE 1 hour or until ready to serve. Decorate with gummy worms.