Taste Buds Box

Three One-week sessions
Options available for rising kindergarteners through rising 6th graders

Jr. Chef Week 

June 24-28
9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. 
Rising Kindergarteners through rising 2nd graders 

July 8-12 Full- Waitlist Available
9 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
Rising 3rd through rising 6th graders 

$500 per session

What to bring: snack, water bottle, sunscreen (labeled with name), comfortable clothing

Accommodations can be made for allergies and dietary restrictions. Please be sure to indicate this upon registration to provide ample time to adjust.

At Taste Buds' Jr. Chef Camp, kids embark on a flavorful journey of culinary exploration, where they not only develop a lifelong love for food but also gain valuable kitchen skills that can last a lifetime. Our program is thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide range of age groups, ensuring that every child's unique needs and skillsets are nurtured and challenged appropriately. 

Throughout the camp, kids will delve into the exciting world of food and cooking, starting with a fundamental understanding of how our taste buds work. They will discover the science behind flavors, textures, and the magic of combining ingredients. This understanding will not only make them better chefs but also more discerning eaters. 

Safety in the kitchen is a top priority, and all campers, regardless of age, will learn about the importance of food and kitchen safety. They will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to create in a clean and secure cooking environment, instilling a sense of responsibility and confidence in the kitchen. 

As they progress through the camp, kids will hone their knife skills, learning the proper techniques for slicing, dicing, and chopping with precision and safety. This foundational skill is crucial for any budding chef. 

Our campers will get hands-on experience in various cooking methods, from the basics to more advanced techniques. They will explore the art of sweating, sautéing, caramelizing, baking, broiling, and toasting. These culinary techniques will empower them to craft a wide range of delicious dishes and unlock the secrets to creating complex flavors. 

In addition to honing their culinary skills, young chefs will learn the art of food presentation. They will discover how to plate their creations with style, making them not only taste amazing but look appealing as well. 

For our 7th-12th grade campers, we offer a more in-depth focus on culinary entrepreneurship. This advanced curriculum equips them with the knowledge and tools needed to transform their passion for food into a business venture. From understanding the economics of the food industry to creating business plans and marketing strategies, our high school campers will be well-prepared for a future in the culinary world. 

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Cooking Around the World 

July 29-August 2
9- a.m.- 12:30 p.m. 
Rising 3rd through rising 6th graders 

$500 per session

What to bring: snack, water bottle, sunscreen (labeled with name), comfortable clothing

Accommodations can be made for allergies and dietary restrictions. Please be sure to indicate this upon registration to provide ample time to adjust.

Taste Buds' Around the World Culinary Camp is a culinary adventure like no other, designed to ignite kids' curiosity about global cuisines and cultures. Our camp goes beyond cooking; it's a passport to a world of flavors, traditions, and culinary techniques. While prior attendance at our Jr. Chef Week is not mandatory, it's encouraged, as it can give students an extra boost of confidence in the kitchen. 

Each day of this captivating week-long journey, campers will embark on a gastronomic world tour, exploring the diverse foods and flavors from countries around the globe. We'll delve into the rich history and cultural significance of cuisines from places like Morocco, South Africa, Japan, Greece, El Salvador, Mexico, India, and many more. This immersive experience is not just about cooking; it's about understanding the stories and traditions behind the dishes, enhancing kids' appreciation for the world's diverse culinary tapestry. 

In addition to discovering new flavors and traditions, campers will also receive hands-on instruction in various culinary techniques. They'll master the art of preparing dishes inspired by each country, allowing them to experience the joy of cooking while expanding their culinary repertoire. 

For our 7th-12th graders, we've added a special component to make their experience even more enriching. In addition to learning about international cuisines and culinary skills, this age group will have the opportunity to explore the world of food entrepreneurship. They'll engage in discussions about the global food industry, learn about food trends, and even have the chance to create and pitch their culinary business ideas, giving them a taste of the exciting possibilities in the world of food and hospitality. 

As the week unfolds, campers will keep a "culinary passport" that documents their journey. It will detail where they've "traveled" to, what they've learned about each country's cuisine, and the dishes they've mastered. By the end of the week, they'll not only take home new cooking skills but also a tangible record of their culinary adventures from around the world. 

Taste Buds' Around the World Culinary Camp promises to be a unique, engaging, and culturally enriching experience. It's an opportunity for children to develop their culinary skills, broaden their horizons, and cultivate an appreciation for the rich tapestry of global flavors. Join us for a week of exploration and delicious discoveries! 

At Taste Buds Box, we're not your average cooking program. We're cooking up a storm with a dash of passion, a sprinkle of experience, and a whole lot of heart. What sets us apart, you ask? Well, it's because we're proudly owned by a dynamic mother-daughter duo who are veterans in their respective fields! 

 

Owners Bios: 

Chef Shavown Cox:

With over 30 years of experience in nurturing and caring for kids, Chef Shavown brings a unique perspective to the world of culinary arts. From her early days as a counselor at a residential treatment center to her role as a child-life specialist in the pediatric intensive care unit, Shavown's journey has been nothing short of remarkable. It was her time in the pediatric unit that ignited her passion for preventive healthcare through food education. 

Today, she's a professional chef specializing in health-supportive culinary arts, graduating with the highest honors from the Institute of Culinary Education in Pasadena, California. Shavown is not just a chef; she's a loving wife, mother to three incredible children, and a doting grandmother to five amazing kids. 

Brittany Young, M.Ed.:

Brittany Young, an educator with over 15 years of experience, is the other half of this dynamic duo. She's been the guiding force behind various educational organizations, students, families, and teachers. With an impressive track record working with institutions for incarcerated youth, public school districts, and independent school organizations, Brittany is no stranger to inspiring change.  

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Howard University and a master's degree from George Washington University. In addition to co-owning and operating Taste Buds, she also homeschools her three school-aged children and is the director of the Youngheirz Genius Community.  

Together, Shavown and Brittany are the heart and soul behind Taste Buds Box, where they're not just teaching you to cook but inspiring a culinary journey filled with love, knowledge, and creativity. Join us as we explore the world through food!