What kid wouldn't love to play outside and cook a snack at the same time? During summer programs, youth visiting the Marshall Public Library have been learning how to harness energy from natural resources and recently learned how to build a solar oven to cook food.

Illinois Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator Susan Sloop played the "How to Build a Solar Oven" video from SciShow Kids. The group then discussed the materials that would work best for an oven, such as aluminum foil, for keeping heat inside and reflecting the sun into the oven.

Next came a few design challenges, such as the best way to let the sunshine into the oven without letting the heat escape and the best color plate on which to set the food.

The youth crafted their ovens using pizza boxes donated by Lion's Den Pizzeria, aluminum foil, and plastic wrap. Then, they used a pencil to prop open the "window" to allow in the sun. They put the ingredients of s'mores onto a black plate and set it inside the oven.   

According to Sloop, it takes about 30 minutes for the sun to melt the chocolate and marshmallow of the s'mores.

If you want to learn "s'more" about 4-H and making your own solar oven, visit online at go.illinois.edu/clark4H.

ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.