Traditional Damper

Traditional Damper

Ages 6–12 · 45–60 min (incl. baking) · Small group · Cooking & Food

Last updated 08 August 2026

Traditional Damper 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 develop a connection to community and culture, and to take part in preparing healthy food.

You'll need

  • 3 cups self-raising flour
  • Pinch of salt
  • 80g cubed butter
  • ¾ cup water
  • Oven access

How to do it

  1. Children rub the butter into the flour and salt until it looks like breadcrumbs.
  2. Add the water and bring together into a soft dough.
  3. Shape into a round loaf and bake until golden and hollow-sounding.
  4. Serve warm and talk about damper's place in Australian history.

Curriculum links

MTOP

  • 2.1 Children and young people develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and an understanding of the reciprocal rights and responsibilities necessary as active and informed citizens
  • 3.2 Children and young people become strong in their physical learning and wellbeing

NQS

  • 2.1.3 Healthy lifestyle - Healthy eating and physical activity are promoted and appropriate for each child.

Frequently asked questions

What NQF outcomes does Traditional Damper support?

Traditional Damper is mapped to MTOP 2.1, MTOP 3.2, NQS 2.1.3. Each framework link is quoted in full on this page.

What age group is Traditional Damper for?

This activity suits ages 6–12.

What do I need for Traditional Damper?

You will need 3 cups self-raising flour, Pinch of salt, 80g cubed butter, ¾ cup water and Oven access.

How long does Traditional Damper take?

Allow about 45–60 min (incl. baking).

Download this activity as a printable PDF

Branded, ready to print and use with your team.

Download PDF

Get all 80 activities as a free booklet

One printable PDF, delivered to your inbox.

Free. No credit card required.

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
Get in touch