Kids in the Kitchen: How to Inspire Young Cooks

It’s always nice to get the whole family involved in the cooking process. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or a normal weekday dinner, cooking with your kids is a great way to bond. You can spend quality time together and eat a delicious dish at the end.

But it can be a challenge to get your children interested in cooking. Young children can sometimes be reluctant to learn about nutrition or cooking.

As a parent, there are lots that you can do to encourage your little ones to get more involved in the cooking of your family meals. Here are some tips to inspire the young cooks in your family.

Let Them Choose Your Meals

Kids are more likely to be engaged if they feel like they’re in control. Let your little ones choose what meal to cook for dinner.

You could give them a cookbook full of simple recipes and get them to choose a main dish and dessert to try out. If you have more than one child, let them take turns so that everyone gets a say in what to cook.

Watch Cooking Shows Together

To introduce your kids to the basics of cooking, watch some cooking shows with them. There are lots of entertaining shows to choose from, some of which are perfect for keeping your children engaged.

They can learn about nutrition, healthy eating and cooking techniques, and then use what they’ve learned when you’re cooking  dinners together in the kitchen.

Treat Them to Some Cooking Gifts

You don’t need to wait for holidays or birthdays to buy your kids some cooking gifts. Getting cute and quirky items for your kids to use during cooking will make it more exciting and engaging for them.

Some great gift ideas include:

• Personalized aprons
• Colorful kitchen utensils
• ‘Paint your own’ measuring cups
• Patterned rolling pins
• Cute cookie cutters
• Kids’ cookbooks
• Chef's hats

Most of these kitchen gifts are inexpensive and easy to get your hand on.  You might even be tempted to get matching aprons!