Kids In The Kitchen

Five Reasons to Get Your Kids Cooking

1 pinch of open-mindedness. Many experts say that kids are more apt to try new foods if they have a hand in preparing them. Even the most finicky eaters will feel good about the foods they make and will want to try each and every one of their masterpieces.

2 dashes of good nutrition. Cooking at an early age establishes healthy eating habits, especially when your child cooks with nutritious ingredients. It's important to have these healthy items on hand: fresh fruits and vegetables, herbs and whole grains.

3 cups of memories. Inviting your kids in the kitchen to help cook promotes working together, gets the dinner on the table faster, and, most importantly, creates family memories. Remember the time Mom accidentally used sugar instead of salt in her tomato sauce?

4 tablespoons of knowledge. Kids get a lesson in all of their subjects when cooking.
Math: Following a recipe helps kids become familiar with different units of measure.
Language: Cooking helps kids learn new words and their meanings, such as dice, fold and cut in.
Science: Experimenting with different ingredients and discovering flavors that complement each other allow kids to practice their scientific skills.
History/Geography: Each family recipe has a history and origin. Sharing those traditional family recipes with your children will give each dish special meaning.

5 teaspoons of self-esteem. While you're cooking, give your child a task. Whether it's lightly stirring a few ingredients or helping decorate holiday cookies, your child will gain a little independence, which will increase his or her self-esteem.