LOYAL. LOCAL. COMPLETE.
If you’ve ever tried to wrangle a toddler or young child in the kitchen, you know it’s no easy task. Imagine turning that culinary chaos into an entertaining, educational experience, where the mess is just as fun as the final product. Chrisman local Lindsey Franz created a children’s cookbook, titled Bitsy Bakers, to do just that.
Franz’s book began in her college typography course as an assignment focused on type, layout and design. Franz was tasked with creating a book that not only looked good, but was functional and readable. Inspired by her love for design and kids activities, she combined the elements into a children’s cookbook that is both practical and playful. The book is designed with the hopes of teaching kids how to cook, while engaging them with fun activities.
“I wanted something that would be kid-friendly, family-friendly and really encourage children to get involved in the kitchen,” Franz said. “Each recipe has its own character, and there’s a little puzzle or game attached to each one, things like word searches or mazes, that kids can do while they wait for something to bake. It’s all about creating a whole experience.”
Bitsy Bakers features easy-to-follow recipes that young chefs can make with the help of their parents. Although primarily geared toward kids, Franz’s typography work ensures the book is visually appealing and readable for all ages.
“I made sure it was simple enough for a 10-year-old to follow, but engaging enough for anyone who loves to bake,” she said.
What makes Bitsy Bakers particularly special is that it isn’t just a cookbook. It’s also an activity book, offering a creative approach to baking. Whether it’s solving a maze or learning to count while frosting cupcakes, Franz has infused the book with a sense of playfulness that is infectious; so infectious she’s already seen a high demand for the product.
“I posted it online and got an overwhelming response. People started asking how they could get a copy, and before I knew it, I’d placed an order for 100 books,” she said.
Bitsy Bakers is not only a fun way to spend time in the kitchen, but it also offers kids a chance to develop skills, build confidence and make memories with their families. Locally, anyone can check out a copy at the Chrisman Public Library, where the remaining cookbooks are flying off the shelves.
“We have cookbooks for kids, but something like Bitsy Bakers, which combines cooking with games and activities, is really unique. We definitely want to support that,” a Chrisman Public Library employee said. “If a child can read the directions, they can cook. We have cookbooks for kids, from Peanuts to other classic cookbooks, and they all encourage children to get involved. It’s a great way to build confidence and spark creativity.”
Whether Franz is working on her next big project or continuing to inspire kids in the kitchen, one thing is for sure: Bitsy Bakers is proof that good things come in small, deliciously designed packages. Maybe your next family baking day will be a “bitsy” one, filled with fun, learning and a whole lot of memories.
Individuals interested in purchasing their own copy of Bitsy Bakers can reach out to Lindsey Franz at 217-264-6342 or stop by Chrisman Public Library.