5 Tips for Getting Kids in the Kitchen

Getting kids in the kitchen is a great idea. In the short term, many picky eaters are more open to trying foods that they help prepare.  In the long term, preparing food is an important life skill that you only learn by doing.

Here’s 5 tips for getting kids in the kitchen:

1.     Slow Down: If having your child be a healthy eater is a priority for you, you do need to give it time to happen. “Not enough time”/ “too rushed” is one of the most common barriers I hear to getting kids involved in the kitchen. Schedule it in your family’s calendar – it’s just as important as those piano lessons and soccer practices.

2.     Overcome Safety Fears: Yes there are safety concerns with the kitchen. I’m not going to minimize those. Many parents think that keeping kids out of the kitchen is the best way to protect them. However, the best protection is to teach your kids how to be safe in the kitchen. Teach them proper knife skills. Teach them how to be careful around the oven, stove, hot pots and hot liquids. Don’t let your anxiety get in the way of your kids’ learning. Even toddlers can learn how to safely use a paring (i.e. sharp) knife. Nervous about how to keep kids safe in the kitchen? This is a great resource with activities for different ages & skill levels:  http://www.bettertogetherbc.ca/learn/tips/new-years-resolution-get-your-kids-in-the-kitchen

3.     Explore Together: Use kids’ natural curiosity to your benefit. Learn what part of a plant the fruit or veggie comes from. What does the plant look like? Where in the world does the vegetable/fruit originate? Do you cook it or eat it raw? Explore the internet, your library, even the cookbooks collecting dust on your shelves, to find recipes.

4.     Practice Makes Perfect: While it’s impractical to have kids involved in preparing every meal, the more often you get kids in the kitchen, the better they are at behaving responsibly (and safely). I recommend it as a weekly family activity. Not only will your kids be learning cooking skills, but you’ll be spending quality family time together.

5.     Pack-Your-Own Lunch: Packed lunches are a natural way for kids to learn to make healthy food choices. Afterall, it’s their lunch, why not have them take responsibility for making it. Start with small choices and gradually let them take over full responsibility. Young kids (kindergarten and grade 1) can choose their fruits and veggies. By grade 5 (if not before), kids can be fully responsible for their lunches including making sandwiches and ensuring all the food groups are included. 

Kristen Yarker, MSc, RD helps you experience the pleasure (and energy) of healthy eating. After 6 years of only working with the toughest customers (i.e. picky kids), she is now serving adults who want amazing energy to live their busy lives without sacrificing the pleasure of delicious food. Discover how (and get recipes too) at www.KristenYarker.com

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