Festive Shortbread
Ages 6–12 · 45 min · Small group · Cooking & Food
Last updated 08 August 2026
Festive Shortbread is a free, NQF-aligned Cooking & Food activity for ages 6 to 12. It includes a learning intention, a materials list, step-by-step instructions and framework links.
Learning intention
This experience supports children to respect different family traditions and to measure and bake together.
You'll need
- Butter
- Sugar
- Flour
- Cookie cutters
- Decorations
How to do it
- Children cream the butter and sugar, then mix in the flour.
- Roll out the dough and cut shapes with cutters.
- Bake until pale gold.
- Decorate once cool and talk about family celebrations.
Curriculum links
MTOP
- 2.2 Children and young people respond to diversity with respect
- 3.2 Children and young people become strong in their physical learning and wellbeing
NQS
- 6.1.2 Parent views are respected - The expertise, culture, values and beliefs of families are respected, and families share in decision-making about their child’s learning and wellbeing.
Frequently asked questions
What NQF outcomes does Festive Shortbread support?
Festive Shortbread is mapped to MTOP 2.2, MTOP 3.2, NQS 6.1.2. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.
What age group is Festive Shortbread for?
This activity suits ages 6–12.
What do I need for Festive Shortbread?
You will need Butter, Sugar, Flour, Cookie cutters and Decorations.
How long does Festive Shortbread take?
Allow about 45 min.
Download this activity as a printable PDF
Branded, ready to print and use with your team.
Get all 80 activities as a free booklet
One printable PDF, delivered to your inbox.
This activity and hundreds more can be accessed in our paid One Child app, ready to drop into your weekly planner, link to children, and track NQF outcomes. One Child also drafts a learning story from an educator's observation notes, which the educator then refines. Set your centre up with a 14-day trial.
Start a centre trial