KIDS IN THE KITCHEN
Boost healthy habits by making meal times a family affair!
Cooking is a great way for kids to lay the foundation for healthy eating habits. It is also an excellent way for younger children to practise basic maths and science concepts, and develop language skills while building their self-confidence. Callum Hann, Masterchef star and director of Sprout Cooking School, explains why getting kids confident in the kitchen is essential.
Wellbeing
There’s a strong link between children who learn to cook at a young age, and their overall health and enjoyment of food later in life. Kids who spend time in the kitchen are more likely to try new foods and have a balanced and varied diet. This decreases the risk of obesity, heart disease and type two diabetes, to name a few advantages!
Adventurous eaters
If kids learn to enjoy the whole process – from selecting the meal, through to shopping, prepping and cooking – they are far more likely to try foods they otherwise might not. If kids see you lead by example by cooking and eating balanced, nutritious meals, the chances are that they will, too.
Have fun
If you make cooking a fun, social, interactive activity rather than a chore, your child is far more likely to feel the same way. As hard as it can be, try not to be in a rush when you’re cooking with your children. Rather, take your time, smell and taste the ingredients, and let the children (with supervision) be as involved as possible in all stages of the cooking process.