The Pancake Maker
By Michael Rosen
I’m a three-egg beater
pancake eater,
the pancake maker –
Super Pancaker.
I get my kicks
doing the mix:
eggs and milk
butter and flour,
let it stand
for half an hour.
I’m a three-egg beater
pancake eater,
the pancake maker –
Super Pancaker.
I can flip pancakes in the air.
Oh! It’s landed in my hair.
No matter, now it’s done.
Anyone here, want that one?
No? I’ll eat it, fair’s fairy
Eurghh! My pancake’s hairy!
I’m a three-egg beater
pancake eater,
the pancake maker –
Super Pancaker.
Every child has a passion, an imagination and a
dream waiting to be discovered. Our responsibility is to encourage, support and
give them the freedom to explore.
Children's Day is a wonderful occasion to celebrate
childhood, innocence, curiosity and the limitless imagination of young minds.
Celebrated in India on 14 November, it also reminds us of Pandit Jawaharlal
Nehru's affection for children and his belief that they are the future of our
nation.
This Children's Day, let us look at children from a
slightly different perspective. Beyond their academic achievements, marks,
grades and classroom performances, let us recognise their individual interests,
likes, dislikes, talents and choices.
A Pancake Maker – A Little Poem with a Big Message!
Michael Rosen's delightful poem The Pancake
Maker is an interesting read for children. The narrator introduces himself
as a pancake enthusiast, describing how he mixes eggs, milk, butter and flour
to make pancakes. He enjoys the process, flips a pancake into the air and, in a
hilarious moment, finds it landing in his hair!
The amusing expressions, repetitive lines and
playful language make the poem enjoyable. Children can easily relate to the
excitement of making something with their own hands, experimenting and having
fun, even when things do not turn out as expected.
But there is another interesting thought hidden in
this simple poem.
The narrator enjoys making pancakes. He takes pride
in what he does and calls himself a 'Super Pancaker'. It may sound funny, but
isn't this what we want every child to experience? The happiness of discovering
something they genuinely enjoy doing!
One child may love cooking, another may enjoy
painting, singing, dancing, gardening, reading, writing stories, playing a
musical instrument or exploring the world of science. Some children may be
fascinated by machines, while others may find happiness in caring for animals.
Every interest deserves attention and
encouragement.
Are We Listening to What Children Really Want?
As parents, teachers and elders, we often have our own ideas about what children should study, which activities they should pursue and what careers they should choose. Academic excellence is important, but it should not become the only measure of a child's abilities or future.
A child who is not particularly interested in
mathematics may have an extraordinary imagination. A child who enjoys spending
time in the kitchen may develop an interest in culinary arts. A child who loves
observing birds, plants and insects may eventually become a naturalist,
environmentalist or wildlife researcher.
We must learn to recognise these interests instead
of dismissing them as mere hobbies or distractions.
How Can We Encourage Children's Interests and
Choices?
1. Listen without judging: Give children the
freedom to express what they like and dislike. Their opinions and preferences
matter.
2. Provide opportunities: Let them
experiment with cooking, drawing, music, sports, reading, gardening, crafts and
other activities. Exposure helps them discover their interests.
3. Encourage curiosity: Welcome their
questions, however simple or unusual they may seem. A curious child is an
enthusiastic learner.
4. Allow mistakes: Just as the pancake in
the poem lands in the narrator's hair, not everything will go according to
plan. Mistakes are part of learning. Let children try again.
5. Avoid comparisons: Every child has a
different pace, ability and temperament. Comparing siblings, classmates or
neighbourhood children can affect their confidence.
6. Respect their choices: As children grow
older, involve them in decisions about their education, extracurricular
activities and future careers. Guide them with information and experience, but
do not impose your unfulfilled dreams on them.
7. Celebrate small achievements: Appreciate
their efforts, creativity and willingness to learn rather than focusing only on
the final outcome.
From Childhood Interests to Future Careers
Not every hobby has to become a profession, and not every childhood interest will remain the same forever. Children change, explore and discover new possibilities as they grow. However, their interests can provide valuable clues about their natural abilities and inclinations.
A child who loves making pancakes might grow up to
become a chef, food entrepreneur, food scientist or cookbook author. Or perhaps
making pancakes will simply remain a happy childhood memory!
The important thing is not the career itself, but the confidence to explore possibilities and make informed choices. Let us also remember that success does not have a single definition. A fulfilling career is one that allows individuals to use their abilities, find satisfaction in their work and contribute meaningfully to society.
A Children's Day Resolution
This Children's Day, let us make a small resolution
as parents, teachers and elders.
Let us spend time understanding children rather
than constantly instructing them. Let us encourage their questions instead of
expecting unquestioning obedience. Let us appreciate their individuality
instead of trying to make everyone fit into the same mould.
The world needs doctors, engineers, teachers,
scientists and administrators. It also needs artists, musicians, writers,
chefs, farmers, sportspersons, environmentalists and countless other
professionals.
Every profession has its importance, and every child deserves the opportunity to discover where their interests and abilities lie. A happy childhood is not about preparing children only for examinations or future careers. It is about giving them the confidence, knowledge, freedom and support to become responsible, independent and happy individuals.
Let children dream, discover, experiment and
choose. Let us be their supporters, not decision-makers of their entire future.
After all, every child has the potential to become
a 'Super Pancaker' in their own chosen field!
Happy Children's Day! 14 November
May every child have the freedom to dream, the
courage to explore and the encouragement to follow their heart.
A question for parents, teachers and readers:
Do we really listen to what children want to
become, or do we decide their future for them? Have you encouraged a child's
unusual interest or talent? Share your thoughts and experiences in the
comments.
Let us celebrate children not merely for what they
achieve, but also for who they are and who they aspire to become.
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