Cooking with Children

Filed in archive Fun for the kids on April 21, 2006

One of my fondest childhood memories is helping in the kitchen every Sunday. My older brother and I spent our Sunday afternoons helping our mom prepare lunch. After our afternoon nap, we also helped her bake a cake for our afternoon snacks.

It was the perfect time to bond with our mom. It also made me and my brother felt proud that we could help in the kitchen and do adult stuff. Looking back, I can now imagine how my brother and I must have delayed the process. But enjoy the activity, we all did.

Now that I am a mother myself, I plan to take advantage of the tasks that anyway needs to be done, and turn it into a bonding activity with my kids where they can learn and have fun, at the same time. At present, my 2 year old son has already started helping. His cooking résumé boasts of experience in pancake batter stirring, cherry tomato washing and countertop cleaner.

Soon, when my 2 sons are older, I think I would have to widen my cooking repertoire. Especially since the older they get, the more they can help. I can't wait.

Should you need help (like I do), here are a few practical resources which could help parents and kids have more than fun... you never know, these tips might help you groom the next Wolfgang Puck!

Cooking with Kids for Dummies is your ultimate how-to help. The book not only functions as a cookbook but it also has information on the cooking basics, illustration on how to use a knife (perfect for the young 'un), nutrition guide and a practical shopping guide for parents with kids.

PBS Parents' guidelines can help you make cooking safe and fun, and entice your children into trying something new.

Better Homes & Gardens' Kitchen Safety can help kids become safe and responsible cooks.

What are you waiting for? Get some of those mini aprons and start working with your newest Sous-Chef NOW!