author interview Archives - A Sweet Spot Home

Yesterday, I shared some sneak peeks of a new book for kids, Candy Making for Kids, by Courtney Dial Whitmore with photography by Zac Williams. Today, I’m sharing some pics with you of a darling photo shoot Courtney did with three precious little candy makers! I also was able to tie this busy lady down to answer a few questions about her new book!

What inspired you to write a candy making book for kids??

The publisher actually approached me with the book topic and I was hooked – what’s better than candy except candy made easy for kids of all ages. None of the recipes use a candy thermometer which makes it really perfect for kids! To create the recipe, I was really inspired by treats I loved making as a child. Toffee is one of my favorite foods so it definitely made the book (easy-style of course). I also love candies around the holidays so there is a whole chapter devoted to holiday-themed candies!

Kids are such fun to work with, did you have any funny/interesting experiences with little ones while writing this book?

So, I don’t have kids of my own (yet) but I definitely have a lot of little ones in my life. My ring bearer (he turns 3 on Friday) is like my own little one and helped me so much with this book. What I learned from the kids is that “fru-fru” recipes are totally not necessary because when it comes down to it – sprinkles on anything reigns supreme!

Was this book designed with a particular age group in mind, or will it be good for all kids?

I think there are recipes in the book for kids of all ages. Some use a saucepan and microwave so that’s for older kids and some truly involve decorating and using your hands (candy play-dough!) but my answer to that would be ages 3-99

What would be your number one tip for grown ups who are interested in getting their kids into the kitchen?

MAKE IT FUN! If you mess up and focus too much on making it perfect, then it becomes a chore. Do the basics of the recipe and then when it comes to the decorating (which most of these recipes allow for), let them at it! There shouldn’t be any rules at that stage – it’s like art!