Kids and Kitchen Safety

Kids love to help and they are much less likely to reject foods they helped make. When you get them in the kitchen, they feel good about doing something "grown-up" and contributing to the family meal.

Children of all ages can help in the kitchen. Start out by giving your child small jobs to do. As your child grows, he will be able to help with different tasks. Start all activities in the kitchen by washing your hands with your child. Here are age-appropriate activities for your child to get started helping in the kitchen.

Kitchen Safety

It is important to stay safe in the kitchen. Here are basic safety rules to follow in the kitchen:

1. A grown-up must be in the kitchen during all activities, including cooking and cleaning up.

2. Everyone must wash hands with soap and water before touching food. 

3. If your child has long hair, it should be tied back. Roll shirt sleeves up so they do not get wet or dirty. 

4. Start with a clean kitchen. Wipe down countertops and put away things that you will not need.

5. Knives and sharp kitchen tools should be kept out of reach of children and away from their working space. 

6. Do not allow your child near a hot stove or oven. Keep pot handles pointed towards the center when they are placed on the stove.

7. Read the recipe out loud to your child and work slowly, doing one job at a time.