Whether they are helping you cook or simply watching, kids in the kitchen must be familiar with basic safety rules in order to prevent burns, cuts and other injuries. Be sure there are no loose cords, dish cloths or pot handles hanging off the stove, exposed knives or open doors or drawers in the kitchen that could present a threat to children's safety. Familiarize kids with kitchen appliances and tools, and make sure they are aware of basic safety rules, such as staying far away from anything that is sharp or hot.
Tour
For children who may be unfamiliar with kitchen appliances and utensils, start with a tour. Explain the function of each appliance and warn against touching electrical outlets and cords or anything that is sharp or hot. Remind children that a grown-up must be present whenever they are in the kitchen, and that grown-ups are the only ones who can transfer food to and from the oven or stove. Demonstrate how to use various appliances, such as a microwave oven or an electric mixer, and explain why they are used. Be sure to warn children of any safety concerns associated with the use of these appliances, such as the possibility of burns when removing deceptively hot food from a microwave oven.
Hygiene
For the sake of safety and cleanliness, help children tie back long hair and roll up long sleeves. Children should wash their hands before and after cooking and whenever they switch from handling one food to another, especially when handling meat and other animal products. For instance, after shaping meatballs, wash hands before preparing salad greens or other vegetables. Also wash hands after sneezing or touching other parts of the body.
Equipment
When cooking with children, start with a clean, uncluttered work space for each child that is away from stoves and other hot appliances. Have children stand comfortably at the level of their work. If necessary, have the child stand on a stable stool to bring them up to normal working height at a table or counter. Use cooking utensils and bowls made of plastic and other materials that will not break. Keep children away from knives, scissors, blades, peelers and other sharp objects. Children can use plastic knives for cutting, slicing and spreading but always supervise these tasks since even plastic knives have serrated edges that can cut skin.
Age-Appropriate Tasks
Take into account the age of the child before assigning a cooking task. According to the National Network for Child Care, 2-year-olds can scrub fruits and vegetables and tear up lettuce, salad greens and bread to use for stuffing. Three-year-olds can help mix batter and knead bread dough. Four- and 5-year-olds can measure dry and liquid ingredients, mash soft fruits and vegetables and beat eggs. Supervise young children at all times in the kitchen.
Techniques
Start with a clean kitchen and instruct kids to clean up as they go along to prevent work areas from becoming dirty, wet or cluttered. Read through the entire recipe, out loud, before you start cooking with children. This will help everyone stay organized and help ensure cooking success. Be sure children know how to use appliances and utensils safely. For instance, show children how to cut away from their fingers when slicing, even when using a plastic knife.
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