Hay River (Apr 18/05) - For humans, almost no skills come naturally and we have to learn just about everything.

And while things like reading, writing and arithmetic are important, a good case can be made that nothing is more important than making a healthy sandwich.

Alexa Thomson proudly displays the sandwich she made April 13 at Growing Together's Kinder Krunchies program.

That's where Growing Together of Hay River comes in.

On April 13, 'Kinder Krunchies' was introduced. It's a program in which four and five year olds learned the basics of making a snack (Cheez Whiz on crackers) and lunch (a sandwich).

"Some had never used a knife," said Orlanda Carlson, a worker at Growing Together, which offers various programs for children and their parents.

The knives were not sharp. The six children had to work to cut the sandwiches.

Most parents prepare snacks and lunches for their children, Carlson said. "Some parents don't provide the opportunities to learn the skills."

Jessica Latour, another worker at Growing Together, said today's society is perhaps being overly protective of children when it comes to preparing food. "It's important to learn these skills."

The children were also taught the importance of cleanliness when preparing food.

The children all enjoyed making the snacks and sandwiches, and they learned something.

"It was fun," said Miles Boyer.

Brooke Reintjes said she learned it was important to wash your hands when making a snack or sandwich.

Madison Loutit agreed. "Because your hands get dirty."

The kids also made a celery car, using four slices of carrots on toothpicks as wheels.

"We are always looking for new ideas and programs, and something fun," said Latour.

She noted there is interest in Kinder Krunchies both from children and their parents.

She described the April 13 Kinder Krunchies as a run through to see if it sparked the children's interest and to see if they could focus for so long - an hour and 15 minutes. "They did exceptionally well."

The program will be offered again in May.