Why should you cook with your kids?
To build their language skills
Build confidence
Start healthy eating habits from a young age. These habits will be taken into adulthood
Opportunity to create and express themselves
They could find a love for cooking that creates self-identity
When can I start cooking with my kids?
As young as 3 years old! Here are some jobs that each age group can help within the kitchen:
3-5 years old:
Stirring cake or biscuit batter
Tearing lettuce or herbs
Adding ingredients
Putting toppings on a pizza
Using cookie cutters
Beating eggs
Mashing potatoes
5-7 years old:
Allow your child to use a small knife, while watching. Show them knife safety skills like claw grip to keep their fingers out of the way
Grating foods like carrot and cheese (warn them to keep their fingers away!)
Rubbing in flour with fingertips when making pastry or scones
8-11 years old
Planning the family meals for the week
Following a simple recipe
Using the stovetop and oven
Tips for cooking with kids:
Encourage your kids to taste ingredients while cooking. This will help them be more open to trying new foods or eating their veggies!
Praise your child’s efforts. This will encourage them to keep on cooking with you and boost their confidence
Make sure all hazards are away when cooking with young children. Pot handles are turned inwards, hot food or liquid is out of reach, nothing is on the floor. Make a space for them to cook at a kitchen table or bench.
Small cuts with a knife are normal when cooking. Keep Band-Aids nearby, reflect on why the cut happened, and continue using a knife safely