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Is there anything better than the smell of baking bread? All I need to do is catch a whiff of it and I'm instantly reminded of my childhood and my mother baking bread or rolls. While I haven't mastered the art of baking bread, I enjoy taking my kids to the local bakery and specialty bread store.

An outing to the specialty bread store can mean many things. Take advantage of the warm cozy atmosphere, the delicious free samples, and the quaint little tables and chairs. Encourage your child to choose a new taste sensation each time. Scones, tea cakes, cinnamon rolls, raisin bread and more all translate into yummy fun and lots of conversation.

Because the seating in these types of bakeries is usually limited, it's a good idea to make this special outing exclusive to one or two children at a time. Perhaps it could be a special one-on-one activity, or as a reward for completed chores or a good score on a test. It's a healthier alternative to ice cream or a candy bar.

Check with the staff to see if its possible to take a quick tour of the area. There may be health regulations that won't allow non-employees in food preparation areas, but it doesn't hurt to ask.

Here are some tips to make your specialty bread store outings a great weekly or monthly tradition:

1. Have your child select a special table and try to sit there whenever you can.
2. Encourage your child to pick something new to try, but don't forget to indulge in old favorites. If you each order something different, you can take tastes of each other's selections.
3. Don't forget the toppings. Delicious spreads such as honey butter, cream cheese or jelly can turn the best piece of bread into a heavenly treat.
4. Sit close together and take advantage of the one-on-one time. Your child will look forward to having you all to himself.
5. Remind your child how healthy snacks can taste just as great as junk food snacks. Talk about the wholesome ingredients in the specialty breads and why they are good for the body.

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