Chefs in Training: Getting children involved in the kitchen

There are different ways to engage children in the kitchen, depending on their age and skill level. All children can help with menu planning and grocery shopping. Younger children can assist with a variety of simple tasks, from setting the table to mixing ingredients. Older children can prepare simple snacks and dishes themselves. No matter what age your children are, working with them in the kitchen can motivate them to try new and healthier foods.

tips for involving younger children


Invite your child to:
• Pick out at least one new fruit or vegetable to try, when shopping.
• Wash fruits and vegetables (try the Dunkin’ Veggies and Dips).
• Rinse canned beans (try the Peanut Butter Hummus).
• Measure dried pasta, beans, vegetables, etc. (try the Buttons and Bows Pasta).
• Add premeasured ingredients to recipes (try the Make Your Own Snack Mix).
• Stir ingredients (try the Fruit Skewers With Yogurt Dip).
• Mash potatoes with a masher (try the Shepherd’s Pie).
• Stuff ingredients into a pita pocket (try the Empañapita).
• Assemble food (try the Bruschetta or Quinoa-Stuffed Tomatoes).
• Crumble cheese (try the Bowtie Pasta With Chicken, Broccoli, and Feta).