Baker's dozen facts for kids
A baker's dozen is a special way of counting that means 13 items instead of the usual 12. It's like getting an extra treat! This term is also sometimes called a "long dozen."
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What is a Baker's Dozen?
A baker's dozen means 13 of something. Usually, a "dozen" means 12. So, a baker's dozen is one more than a regular dozen. This phrase is often used when talking about baked goods, like bread rolls or cookies.
Why is it 13?
The idea of a baker's dozen comes from a long time ago. In the Middle Ages, there were strict laws about selling bread. Bakers had to sell loaves of a certain weight. If their bread was too light, they could face serious punishments. These punishments could include fines or even being whipped!
Laws and Loaves
Bakers faced a challenge. It was hard to make every loaf of bread exactly the same weight. Bread could shrink a little when it cooled. To be safe and avoid trouble, bakers started adding an extra loaf to each dozen. This way, they were sure that their customers received at least the correct weight, or even a little more. This extra loaf protected the baker from being accused of cheating their customers. It was a way to be fair and stay out of trouble with the law.
A Tradition of Trust
This practice became a tradition. Giving 13 items for the price of 12 built trust between bakers and their customers. It showed that the baker was honest and generous. Even though the strict laws are mostly gone today, the term "baker's dozen" still reminds us of this old custom. It's a fun way to say you're getting a little extra!
Images for kids
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The "baker's dozen" may have started as a way for bakers to avoid trouble for selling underweight goods.
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