Martin Luther King, Jr. DayToday marks the celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, which honors one of the greatest civil rights heroes in American history. Although your little one may not know much about the life of this historical icon, he or she can still participate in the spirit of service that Dr. King's memory evokes. Invite your little one to honor Dr. King by donating to your local food pantry (check out the Food Bank Locator to find one near you). Not only can you and your budding chef participate in this great day of service, but you can also discuss the nutritional content that makes certain foods most valuable to food pantries.

1) Proteins: Canned tuna, meats, and even peanut butter serve as great sources of protein for those in need.

2) Rice and Pasta: These staple foods not only fill the stomach but provide complex carbohydrates. Whole grains are best if you can.

3) Canned vegetables: Canned vegetables can provide the same nutritional content as fresh vegetables while remaining viable for longer.

4) Canned fruits and fruit juice: Great sources of vitamin C and other important nutritional content  for kids and grown-ups alike.

5) Shelf-stable milk: An important source of calcium, vitamin D and protein for kids and grown-ups alike.

CK Crew Spotlight - KateWe love Kate! From upstate to downtown, Kate is a favorite among CK Kids and Crew for her enthusiasm, humor, organization and culinary process. Always a teacher extraordinaire, Kate keeps us on our toes and laughing throughout the day. And we couldn't do her justice without mentioning that before anyone can ask, Kate is bound to offer. As a newly married domestic diva, Kate easily plays the role of mother hen among the CK Crew being sure that we're all healthy and happy. When she's not heating up the kitchen or jet-setting off to the latest exotic locale with her beau, Kate loves to spend time with her dog Penelope and go to the gym!

Chef of the Month - FionaThis little firecracker can really heat up a kitchen! Along with her older brother, Kristof, Fiona has become a staple at Cupcake Kids events. With a great memory for everything she's learned and a taste for culinary perfection, Fiona brings enthusiasm to every cooking adventure. Whether it's holiday cookies, Harry Potter brews or some other yummy treat, Fiona's got great cooking chops. When she's not in the kitchen, Fiona loves swimming, playing with babies, the color pink, and pretty dresses with lots of flowers.

Name: Fiona
Age: 4 years
Neighborhood: Chelsea, NYC
Favorite Food: Vongole (clams with white wine, oil & parsley)
Favorite Kitchen Utensil: Wooden scoop

January Giveaway - The Kid's CookbookWhen it comes to cooking with your kids, you can never have enough tricks for making it easier, special, and more fun. Our January giveaway is the William-Sonoma book The Kid's Cookbook which is chock-full of fun tips for making delicious recipes more exciting for your budding chef! Our favorite part is the special section on "Here's How" about food basics relating to fruit, vegetables, eggs, cheese, pasta and more!

Join our email updates list to be eligible to win. The winner will be notified via email the first week of February. Joining will also make you eligible for future giveaways!