So what is Practicalities?
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Practicalities was originally started as a way for teens to learn to cook and families to eat together. According to the Partnership for a Drug-Free New Jersey / America, the family dinner is anti-drug. Children need to be part of a group that is encouraging and understanding.
Check out the philosophy behind the programs.
Currently, the “To The Table” program is designed to work with teens after school in an existing after-school program or in a designated commercial kitchen within the community (or in homes if the group is small enough). Eight to ten participants is the ideal number. As parents pick them up, families can eat together. All meals are four-course meals. Teens learn to follow a recipe, practice safe and sanitary procedures, work with others, set a table, eat with etiquette, and clean up appropriately – true skills for employment and for life!
A second program – “Hello, Kitchen!” is meeting the needs of those who are unfamiliar with working in a kitchen. A representative from Practicalities will meet with individuals in their own kitchens to help them navigate using their own utensils, tools, and appliances. A full meal will be prepared. Participants will be able to follow a recipe, practice safe and sanitary procedures and clean up appropriately. Personal nutrition will be discussed. For an additional charge, a visit and guided tour of the supermarket can be included.
A third program is “What Suits Me Best?” – a customized program to teach sewing basics. This can be done individually or in a group – either in a designated community area or in homes. A sewing machine would be needed for each participant.
Other programs customized for individual needs will be considered.
How about a party in your own home where everyone participates in making a meal?
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"Ruth provided our students with engaging and interactive workshops that not only taught our youth how to prepare food safely, but it also taught them about careers in the food industry. Ruth has vast experience and knowledge which made her classes interesting and so enjoyable! This is a valuable life skill that will help our students to live independently and perhaps pursue careers in the future! We plan to continue working with Ruth in the future!"
— Maria S., Executive Director, Middle Earth
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"Hunterdon Youth Services, dba Binnacle House, has had the opportunity to work with Ruth on several occasions. She has worked seamlessly with our group of youth and has been able to modify her curriculum to meet the varied interest and developmental levels of the youth we serve. We have found her to be flexible and accommodating in meeting our needs. Her instruction on nutrition, cleanliness, and basic cooking techniques have all been instrumental in advancing the skills of our youth."
— Lawrence Brooks, Executive Director of the Binnacle House in Flemington
