Kitchens are home to our knives, stoves, kettles and other appliances that can be unsafe for children. However, there are many steps within a recipe where kids can help, that don’t require them to use these items.

Here are some cooking activities younger kids can get involved in:

• Washing fruit and vegetables: Let them prepare the food by rinsing it under cold water before cooking.
• Stirring, pouring and mashing: Simple tasks like mixing ingredients, mashing softer foods like potatoes or pouring ingredients into a bowl.
• Seasoning: Cooking with kids might take a bit longer than usual so if you’re in a rush but still want them to feel like they’ve helped, get them to add seasoning to the meal at the end. It may seem small but to them will mean a lot.
• Setting the table: They can help by laying out the plates, cutlery, and napkins ahead of dinner.
  
  
  

  If your child is a bit older and more confident in the kitchen, consider asking them to help with:
  
  
  

• Chopping vegetables: Under guidance and with a child safe knife, they can cut vegetables such as onions, peppers or tomatoes.
• Measuring ingredients: They can help by measuring both dry and liquid ingredients using measuring cups and spoons.
• Preparing simple meals: Let them read and follow easy recipes to prepare dishes from start to finish all by themselves.
• Using all kitchen appliances: Teach them how to use appliances like the oven and stove safely.
• Meal planning: Include them in planning weekly meals and creating grocery lists.