Diggers Young and Old Enjoy Anzac Biscuit Baking

It is a simple recipe that has stood the test of time.

Children at Little Diggers PreSchool, located in the grounds of RSL ANZAC Village Narrabeen, spent this morning making Anzac biscuits, proving these treats are as popular today as they were when they were sent to soldiers in World War I.

The youngsters mixed them under the watchful eye of their Grandfriends, Village residents visiting the kindergarten to read and talk with the children.

Today’s cooking activity was filmed by the Nine network and will be screened on The Today Show on Anzac Day, between 5.30am and 9am.

“Older people need young people in their lives,”

Presenter Tom Steinfort was impressed with the children’s answers as he chatted to them about Anzac Day. The children explained the important work soldiers do and how their hard work means they themselves can live safe lives. One child even explained the story of Simpson and his donkey.

The Grandfriends program has run since the kindergarten opened in 2013 when owners Linda Watton and Lindy Howarth were able to realise their dream of running a preschool within the grounds of an aged care facility. As experienced early childhood educators and Directors of the well-known local Owl and Pussycat Preschool, they believed there was much to gain from the younger and older generations living life in close proximity – and to enrich each other’s lives in the process. Preschoolers regularly visit residents in their care home settings in and around the Village. Today’s activity shows just how much the residents and children enjoy the interaction.

The Grandfriends expressed how important engaging with the children is to their lives; it puts a spring in their steps and joy in their hearts. Watching Marion, Stuart, Lindsay, Dorothy and Fred relating to the children, it is clear the friendships are valued by all.

“Older people need young people in their lives,” Marion said.

In between the chatting, the biscuit mixture was blended and rolled and formed into individual biscuits. After being carefully placed onto oven trays, the children carried them to the ovens and patiently waited while they cooked.

The results? Perfectly baked Anzac Biscuits which were enjoyed equally by the children, their Grandfriends and the childcare staff.

Story by Liz McDougall