Yuki’s Story: “food is about connection”

Have you met Yuki? She’s one of The North Grove’s kind, caring, and creative Early Childhood Educators. Originally from Japan, Yuki brings a love of learning, a deep appreciation for nature and animals, and—most of all—a passion for sharing (and enjoying!) good food. 

Her dedication to building meaningful relationships and supporting families and children in having positive, enriching experiences is a true asset to The North Grove’s Child Development team! 

In honour of Asian Heritage Month, Yuki will be sharing some of her favourite foods across three of The North Grove’s programs. From Child Development to Young Cooks to Food Demo - participants of all ages will experience the rich flavours and traditions of Japanese cuisine! 

For Yuki, food is about far more than nutrition—it’s about connection. Sharing meals has always held special meaning for her, a value that aligns with The North Grove’s mission. 

“Enjoying food together, sharing that experience,” Yuki says, “is one of the best conversation starters.” 

Her willingness to share her culture began with a gentle nudge from her Child Development colleagues, Maryann and Maria, who encouraged her to open up about her heritage—especially through food. Yuki says their support gave her the confidence to start sharing more. 

To her surprise, the curiosity about Japanese culture extended well beyond her coworkers. She’s been moved by the community’s warm and generous response. 

“There are so many beautiful people here. I am so happy to be a part of The North Grove community.” 

Japanese Cuisine 

Japanese foods are often rich with meaning. One of Yuki’s favourite traditions is the Osechi—a special New Year’s bento box filled with symbolic dishes. For example, prawns (ebi) represent long life, while herring roe (kazunoko) symbolizes fertility and the hope to continue the family lineage.  

Rice, a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, is eaten up to three (sometimes even four!) times a day in many households. Sushi holds a particularly special place in Yuki’s heart. 

“I love sushi, of course! Anything with rice is very, very important for us.” 

May 5 is Children’s Day in Japan. Yuki hung koi fish in the Child Development space. Their ability to swim upstream, and even up waterfalls is a symbol of perseverance and resilience. The koi windsocks traditionally hung for Children’s Day are intended to wish children health, happiness, and success.  

For many participants, trying or making Japanese food is a first-time experience—and a valuable learning opportunity. Yuki hopes it sparks curiosity about Asian cultures, and helps people notice both the differences and similarities among Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and other food traditions. 

Special Japanese food programs at The North Grove

May 14 – Sushi-making with Young Cooks 

Young Cooks is a four-week hands-on program for youth ages 8-12 to learn basic cooking skills and prepare and share meals together. In this special session, Yuki will guide participants through making their own sushi rolls! 

“Once they create it, roll it up, unfold the bamboo mat and reveal the roll – that sense of accomplishment they feel – that ‘I did it!’ moment is so special.” 

May 15 – Onigiri with 1,2,3 Cook with Me  

In this family cooking session, participants will make onigiri together using pre-prepared fillings of their choice. Even very young children (ages 2-3) can enjoy forming their own rice ball and feel a sense of accomplishment from the experience! 

Yuki created a felt onigiri activity to help familiarize children with the traditional fillings for onigiri and expose them to some simple Japanese text. 

May 21 – Yaki Soba Noodles with Food Demo 

This noodle stir-fry is a popular street food during summer festivals in Japan, as well as a simple lunch meal to prepare at home. 

“I wanted to try something different for this Food Demo,” says Yuki. 

“This is a dish that my husband, who is Canadian, loves. So, I thought the program participants might enjoy it too!” 

Sharing her culture through food is still a new journey for Yuki. She credits her colleagues and The North Grove’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging initiatives for helping her recognize the beauty of her intersecting identities.

“Asian Heritage Month is something I learned about since joining The North Grove. I think it’s just part of The North Grove culture – to truly embrace everyone as they are.” 

Happy Asian Heritage Month from all of us at The North Grove!