Forgive us, Mark Bittman, for we have sinned. We have used a mix to bake banana bread. We know: blasphemy!

But before you get all righteous, hear us out.

The mix was from Kids Central Kitchen, a health-conscious company out of the Pacific Northwest that uses all-natural ingredients and whole grains. It required the use of very real and very ripe bananas that were otherwise going to rot on our kitchen counter.

In fact, you might like to know that all of Kids Central’s mixes (brownies, energy bars, pancakes, cookies) are free of trans fats, hydrogenated oils, refined sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial colors and flavors. So it’s as if you’re making treats from scratch — just with fewer measuring cups and spoons to wash.

And frankly, that’s a blessing.

Available online at kidscentralkitchen.com, $4-$5.

CHOMP
National Gumdrop Day
What: Games, crafts, and a scavenger hunt devoted to the chewy confection.
Why: A candy-themed story time makes their mouths water.
When: Tues., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: The Children’s Museum, 305 Harrison St. (206-441-1768). Adults and children, $7.50; under 1, free.

PLAY
Kids ’n’ Critters
What: Make-and-take art projects, tram tours, and other outdoorsy fun.
Why: Kid-size creatures make appearances along the trails.
When: Sat.-Mon., 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, 11610 Trek Dr. E., Eatonville (360-832-6117). Adults and children 13 and up, $17; up to four children 3-12, free.

EXPLORE
Family Fun Day
What: Learn about the Asian tradition of bestowing kiddos with red envelopes stuffed with cash.
Why: Start the year on a prosperous note.
When: Sat., 1-3 p.m.
Where: Wing Luke Museum, 719 S. King St. (206-623-5124). Admission is free.

Photo: Courtesy of Kids Central Kitchen