Education Through Care: Fostering Tolerance Through the Topic of Food

This paper presents an original pedagogical practice focused on inclusive education and value formation through the universal and emotionally engaging theme of food. The innovative approach redefines food not as a reward or punishment, but as a basic human right, integrating moral education into everyday learning contexts. The practice introduces new teaching methods that involve both children and parents in collaborative activities aimed at fostering tolerance, mutual respect, and a strong sense of community. The key contribution of this work lies in its ability to transform a common, practical topic – the food – into a vehicle for moral development and inclusion. Implemented in a kindergarten setting, the approach emphasizes individualized attention to children’s needs, including food allergies and chronic conditions, demonstrating sensitivity and adaptation in inclusive learning environments. Educators take on multifaceted roles – not only as instructors, but also as mentors and emotional supporters. Data were collected through direct observation and reflective analysis of children’s responses and interac- tions during thematic educational activities. The outcomes suggest that integrating familiar, real-life topics with ethical content can strengthen inclusive practices and deepen children’s social-emotional development. The study argues for the recognition of education as a national priority, and for schools and kindergartens to be- come spaces where individuality is respected and all participants – children, parents, and teachers – are equal- ly included, supported, and valued.