365 TV-free Activities: Day 1, Bas Relief Pancakes (#18)

Today we began our year-long project with Bas Relief Pancakes, suggestion #18 from 365 TV-Free Activities You Can Do With Your Child. These pancake are more of an example of inlay than bas relief. When I think of bas relief art, I think of a coin. These pancakes have a smooth surface.

First, you pour* your "shape". I won't say what Henry was trying to make this resemble, but let's all be relieved it didn't work out as he planned.

Then, defeat all invisible foes with high-flying helicopter kicks.

After the edges of your "shape" firm up a little, add a new ladle of pancake batter over the "design".

Then, chill on the floor while your brother hovers with a spatula.

Flip the whole thing when the bubbles have risen to the surface and popped, if you can wait that long. Here, Henry is mad a bas relief for inadequately conveying his vision.

Just call it an eight, champ.

My "star" and "flower"

look more like an amoeba with a cape, and a sand dollar.

George wants his dad's help with

Pancake Zero!

Thomas made a leaf, and you know what? Yes! I see it.

Wearing out the shift key today. My "whale".

R(?) is for(?) Rebekah(?)

*Our pancake batter recipe was pretty basic, from Mark Bittman's How to Cook Everything. 2 c. flour, 1 T. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. salt, 1 T. sugar, 2 eggs, 2 c. milk, 2 T. vegetable oil.