A cup of tea as an afternoon energizing and relaxing break has been enjoyed world wide since Emperor Shen Nong of China included it in his garden five thousand years ago. The bioactive compounds in a cup of green, black, white, or oolong tea impact every cell in the body to help improve the body’s health. The antioxidants, flavonoids, amino acid, and caffeine in organic tea creates a state of calm alertness. My grandmother would serve a cup of tea during an emergency to settle everyone down. Evidence indicates that the antioxidants in tea reduce the progress of cancer, liver disease, heart disease, and mental function. Tea is a great replacement beverage for sugary sodas and offers an opportunity for family conversation.
Preparing for an afternoon family tea time is a good way to introduce toddlers to cooking basics. Teachers have found that a weekly or monthly tea party increases attention spans and good attitudes during reading time. Kids of all ages love to create an afternoon tea party with friends at home or school. Get out a special teapot and cups and pour hot water into the them for a minute and then discard it. Adding organic loose leaf tea to a warmed teapot allows the tea leaves to unfurl and gives the best flavor, 2 – 5 tsp (less for green and more for black) brewed for 2 – 8 minutes (depending on the tea). Prepare a healthy fruit dish or bake some organic oatmeal cookies to make it an occasion. A relaxing cup of tea is a soothing way to improve health, lighten moods, increase metabolism, and boost energy.
Cooking Magic for Kids 