Students at Edison Success Academy recently rolled up their sleeves to create a healthier version of a breakfast classic: banana oatmeal pancakes. As part of a hands-on culinary and wellness lesson, students explored how to prepare the dish from scratch while learning how to make thoughtful ingredient substitutions to boost nutrition and increase protein content.
With guidance, students incorporated ingredients such as oats, mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds to enhance the pancakes’ fiber and protein, while minimizing added sugars. In addition to cooking, students engaged in conversations around the benefits of whole grains, natural sweeteners, and plant-based protein sources.
A special thank you to Rutgers Cooperative Extension for taking the time to meet with our students and share valuable skills and knowledge. This engaging experience is just one example of how ESA students are building healthy habits through real-world, practical learning—one pancake at a time!