Cooking Classes for Kids
Intro
It might seem like every parent’s dream to get their kids to help them cook in the kitchen. But what if there was a way you could actually get your kid to think about cooking as a genuine interest and not a chore?Well, there are actually ways that you can get your kids to learn healthy eating and develop some basic cooking skills. A well-designed, educational cooking class could be exactly what you are looking for, and we’re showing you how to choose the right culinary class for your budding chef in this article.
What is a Kid’s Cooking Class?
First of all, how is a kid’s cooking class different from an adult class? The truth is, there are a few aspects that will make a class more suitable for children. A kid’s cooking class will take special focus on the way that children learn culinary skills, and will also focus on more kid-friendly recipes.
This means that a kid’s cooking class will tend to go at a slower pace, and will typically start from an absolute beginner’s standpoint of the kitchen basics. The class will guide children through the basics of cooking and the culinary arts, and will hold their interest by showing them how to make a few of their favourites. It will also do so by holding kitchen safety as a top priority. Let’s face it, there are many tools and appliances in a typical kitchen that are unsafe for children and older kids, so kid’s cooking classes focus on using kid-proof tools.
Next up, we’re going to look at how you can choose the best cooking class for your young chef.
Guide for Choosing a Class
There are so many different cooking classes on offer, even within the niche market of kid’s cooking classes. When it comes down to it, the best cooking class is the one that is best for your little chef. You need to pick one that aligns with their learning style, and teaches them things that they are interested in learning!
In this section, we’re showing you how to choose from all the options on offer, and how to make a choice which helps your child develop an interest in cooking and baking for years to come!
Step 1: Talk to Your Kid
Step 1 is simple, talk with your child! Remember, this is their decision, too. Kids engage more in a process if they are involved in that process. So, talk to them, find out what they want to learn, find out what their favourite foods are, and find out which type of cooking skill or recipe they might be interested in learning. If your child is able to take some ownership over the decision, they will be more engaged in the whole process!
Of course, it’s likely the case that your child doesn’t know the first thing about cooking or baking. So, help to inform their decision by giving them the kitchen basics first. Explain to them the types of things they could potentially learn at a cooking school, so that they are able to make a well-informed decision.
Step 2: Finding a Class
Once you’ve settled on the criteria for a class, it’s time to choose. Most cooking classes will be pretty local to your area, so it’s tough to recommend a choice here. There is the option for an online cooking class, but you might find that your kid will have more fun in a cooking class environment where they can meet new friends. It really depends on you and your child’s preference!
Regardless, there are a few factors you should consider to decide on the best cooking class available:
Price
The first factor you want to consider is price. We aren’t going to sugar coat it, cooking classes can get pretty expensive! That’s why it’s important to settle on a price range before beginning your search. If you can settle on a price range that you are willing to pay, then you can effectively narrow your choices, and make your decision-making a little bit easier.
Length
The next major factor is the length of the course. Cooking courses can go from single courses to weeks or months. Decide what is best for your child. It might be a good idea to start with a shorter course rather than weekly classes, so you can help decide what they are most interested in. Then, they will have a better idea what they want to learn more about.
Reviews
Don’t forget to check customer reviews before picking a course. Reviews are a great way to get an unbiased perspective of the actual quality of the course. They can be an excellent way to see what real people thought of the experience, and are a great way to decide whether it’s the best course for your kid.
Online vs. In-Person
Of course, you need to decide whether you should go with an online or an in-person cooking course. The advantages of both are pretty self-evident. Online courses have the benefit of being completed from anywhere, and at your own convenience. However, an in-person class allows for a more hands-on experience, with more one-on-one help from the instructor, and your child has the opportunity to make new friends!
In-person courses tend to be quite a bit more expensive. But they also usually provide the tools and the ingredients. If you want to find out about a cooking course in your area, Google is your best bet. Do a quick search for “kids cooking courses” (or something similar), and check out Google reviews for your best options.
Type of Cuisine
Finally, you should pick a course based on the type of cuisine! Your kid probably already has a few favourites. Choose a course that will have them cooking the things they actually enjoy. This goes so far in keeping them engaged in the process.
Step 4: Encouragement and Motivation
Finally, once you have chosen a course and signed up your kid, your work isn’t done as a parent. Be sure to continue to provide them with encouragement and motivation! Ask about their course, and show them you are proud of them for what they are learning. Try their food, and give them positive feedback! Your words of encouragement mean an awful lot to them, and this will go so far in having them feel truly proud of their accomplishments.
About the Author
Alissa is a resilience coach, cartoonist, and advocate for ‘connection, not perfection’. She’s dedicated to helping others find a sense of safety and belonging inside themselves so they can heal, connect, and build authentic, joyful lives.