Benefits of encouraging our children in the kitchen

James Rippon James Rippon
A Scandi Kitchen & Dining Room with an Arty Edge, Cathy Phillips & Co Cathy Phillips & Co Kitchen
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The age old tradition of passing recipes down through generations seems to be a lost art in our increasingly busy and detached lives. A parent spending time in the kitchen with their children, teaching them vital life skills, is something practised seemingly far less than it once was. There are a large number of benefits when it comes to encouraging our children in the kitchen; from teaching them healthy eating habits to varied life skills, all while promoting creativity, boosting self esteem, and not to mention, being a great bonding activity. So, grab your young ones and embark on a culinary adventure that is both fun and beneficial for parents and kids alike.

Teaches them healthy eating habits

The issue of obesity among children is something of an epidemic, with studies claiming childhood obesity has tripled in the past 30 years. The eating habits of our children begin in the home, with parents playing a vital role in the habits children develop from an early age. There is no better way to coach children on healthy eating then by including them in the preparation process of your family's healthy meals, encouraging them to be aware of the ingredients you use, and the sources of the foods they eat. 

Encourages an adventurous palatte

Preschoolers are notoriously picky eaters, so to encourage a child to have a more adventurous palate, let them help you prepare something full of fruit and vegetables – something they may not normally become familiar with until later in life. They can also develop some basic knowledge on why we need certain foods everyday to grow up big and healthy.

Teaches life skills

Inviting our kids into the kitchen from an early age will not only teach them how to cook for themselves later in life, it also teaches them a myriad of other life skills. Proper food preparation is a lesson in food safety, following a recipe will help with their maths skills, baking encourages good time management skills, and recipes introduce new words into their vocabulary, just to name a few. Yes, it might take a little longer to get the job done, and it may be a little messier, but in the end, you are teaching children skills they can then use everyday for the rest of their lives.

Boosts confidence

Beyond the essential elements of developing life skills and healthy eating habits, encouraging children in the kitchen has a number of other positives, too. Young children love to show off their accomplishments, and by working with your young kids in the kitchen, you give them a sense of achievement, boosting their confidence in spades. Cooking is also another way for children to express creativity, getting their hands dirty and having great fun at the same time.

Is a great bonding activity

All these great benefits aside, the best part about cooking with your kids is that it is the perfect way to spend quality time together. Such busy lives do not always allow us to spend time bonding with our children, so combining the task of meal preparation with hanging out with your kids, seems the perfect reason to encourage children in the kitchen.

Hungry for more kitchen inspiration? Then take a look at our article on eco friendly kitchens here.

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