Teaching kids to cook is a great way to help them build valuable life skills. By involving them in the process, they can learn about nutrition and teamwork and get practical lessons in science, math and creativity. Now that sounds like a recipe for success.
TIP #1
START WITH SMALL TASKS
Get kids involved by giving them small tasks they can help with - retrieve ingredients, measure ingredients, open cans, wash fruits and vegetables, etc.
TIP #2
TEACH THE BASICS
Take time as you’re cooking to go over the basics of kitchen etiquette, such as washing your hands before starting, cleaning up dishes as you go, wearing an apron to protect clothing, etc.
TIP #3
KID-FRIENDLY KITCHEN
Keep age-appropriate utensils and ingredients within reach of children while being sure that sharp knives and potentially dangerous appliances are safely out of reach.
TIP #4
EMPHASIZE SAFETY
Match your kids’ skill level with appropriate tasks and, if using knives or other equipment, demonstrate how to handle them properly.
TIP #5
PROVIDE INSPIRATION
Make cookbooks, food magazines and bookmarked food websites available to kids. Letting them choose a recipe will make them even more interested in preparing it.
TIP #6
USE VISUALS
Try to find and use recipes that have illustrations so kids can easily follow along.
TIP #7
READ THE RECIPE
Read through the recipe together before beginning so you both know what ingredients you need, what happens and in what order.
TIP #8
WORK TOGETHER
Enable them to work alongside you by setting them up on a slip-free stool so they can reach the counter.
TIP #9
HAVE FUN
Mistakes, spills and accidents are certain with kids in the kitchen. Just try not to take it too seriously. A sense of humor and a little patience can make this learning process fun for everyone.
TIP #10
BEGIN WITH THIS RECIPE
Our delicious and simple Southwest Tacos recipe is a great one to start with.
Younger children can help season the turkey cutlets and spoon the taco mixture into tortillas.
Middle-aged children can help shred lettuce/cheese and dish out toppings - tomatoes, sour cream, etc.
Older children can help cut the turkey into 1-inch pieces, as well as help add ingredients and cook the taco mixture in a large skillet.