Cooking, and appreciation of good food, is something we acquire; as put by the infamous Julia Child “No one is born a great cook, one learns by doing”.

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Getting our kids into the kitchen is truly a gift we can give them, and ourselves. I hope that the benefits listed here will motivate you to start having fun in the kitchen with your little treasures, and bigger gems – it’s never too late to start!

1. It gets our kids away from electronics, at least for a while

2. They learn about various fruits and vegetables – colours, types, textures, origins

3. It’s a wonderful way of bonding and communicating

4. Kids learn about measuring methods and tools

5. They learn to cut and chop skillfully and carefully

6. Kids get to touch and feel different textures of foods

7. They become familiar with many different smells

8. We learn about herbs and spices – their flavours, colours and medicinal benefits

9. Kids appreciate the balance of tastes – sweet, bitter, sour, salty

10. They learn about ingredients and recipes from different cultures

11. We can get creative and experiment together

12. Kids are more likely to be enthusiastic about trying new foods – textures, tastes and flavours

13. Cooking with kids is a great way to subtly help picky eaters

14. Cooking together encourages eating together at the table

15. Kids learn appreciation for the cost of food and meals

16. They also appreciate the time and effort involved in meal preparation and other household chores

17. Kids learn to read and follow instructions

18. Math skills are improved as we weigh and measure

19. We learn to work together with our kids, and to negotiate through challenges

20. The art of patience is tested, and hopefully learned

21. Cooking has lessons of chemistry – e.g. the states and changes of matter; liquids-gas-solids

22. Lessons about our environment – the need to look after our land and reduce global food waste

23. We learn about how foods are processed from their natural state

24. Organization and planning skills are acquired

25. Coordination is also key, so that all parts of a meal come together at the right time

26. Kids learn how to set the table

27. Table manners become more important with a better focus on enjoying meals

28. Skills for life are acquired

29. Kids learn about foods that come from various animals and plants

30. We can teach about the different types of diet and ways of eating - vegan, vegetarian, low-carb

31. We appreciate cultural differences in food choices

32. Kids learn about safety in the kitchen

33. As a parent, you might get to put your feet up for a little while

34. Kids learn to problem solve by making substitutions and compromising

35. They learn that cleaning up doesn’t just happen!

36. We can teach about the macro and micro-nutrients and why we need healthy food

37. With younger kids, cooking helps their fine motor skills

38. Kids learn how to take on and accept responsibility

39. We can explore and pass on family recipes and traditions

40. Kids appreciate the need to contribute to daily family chores

41. They are more likely to shop, put groceries away, clear up after a meal

42. Kids will eat less junk food as they wait for family dinner

43. Cooking builds self-confidence and esteem

44. They learn about various devices and appliances, and how to use them safely

45. We can learn how to read and comprehend nutrition labels

46. We appreciate and understand food allergies and intolerances

47. We can teach about food portions and healthy components of a nutritious meal

48. Kids learn that leftovers can be enjoyed in so many different ways – the versatility of food!

49. Kids might be encouraged to grow herbs and some produce; the power of nurturing

50. Most importantly it’s fun!

They say cooking is love made visible and edible; show your kids by spending moments with them creating nurturing dishes that you can enjoy as a family. After all, they say “a family that eats together stays together.”

As always, I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Visit Health and Vitality page to find out more about Liza's work.

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