Ever since I was a little girl, I loved every moment where I could be side by side with my grandmother, Betty Scardine, or watch my mom prepare the family dinner. Growing up and being the oldest of seven children, I gravitated to creating the culinary experience for my family. My father was the master BBQ king and made some amazing spaghetti sauce.
Upon having my own children, the joy of watching them create part of the family meal or a snack is so heart-warming.
Raising two children and being career-focused was always a fine balance. I was always looking for ways to include my kids in my cooking and baking routines. Holiday-themed foods are always a favorite of mine.
Teaching your children how to cook is one of the best gifts you can give them.
As we get older and cooking becomes second nature, it’s easy to forget all of the skills that it takes to cook. For kids to cook in the kitchen, they must have excellent hand-eye coordination and be constantly attentive to reading and writing, understand math fundamentals, be creative, include science and nature.
I was assisting my grandson, Ty, prepare a cheese pizza last week. It was such a joy to see his little hands go to town and work with the ingredients that were provided. He took pizza dough, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese to create his own lunch. His attitude was so upbeat and heartfelt. He made one of his favorite meals.
Getting children involved in preparing their own meals is also a wonderful opportunity to instill the importance of eating nutritious meals. Just like I experienced, older kids may need to help out with family food shopping, meal preparation and cleanup. Becoming skilled in the kitchen is more than fun. It is quite necessary for survival!
Here are some tips that might help you and the kiddos:
Keep your eyes peeled for recipes that are kid-friendly and would be fun to make together.
Prepare no-bake recipes that are a little easier such as “ants on a log,” turkey wraps and yogurt parfaits as you begin the experience.
Teach handwashing after touching raw foods and changing jobs. Remember to wash for 20 seconds.
Remember with hot cooking equipment to keep their hands to their sides so they do not harm themselves.
My daughter, Stephanie, is creating a “Kids in the Kitchen” experience for children this summer. Classes will be offered and posted on the goodsfromthegarden.com website after March 15.
Not only is it fun to be working in the kitchen together, I am hopeful that they’re learning some math, cooking skills and some real life skills along the way! QCBN
By Debbie Maranville
Contact Goods from the Garden. We are located at the Prescott Gateway Mall. 3250 Gateway Blvd. #516 Prescott, AZ 86303 928-237-3214 goodsfromgarden@gmail.com or check out our Facebook page.