Fix-It and Forget-It

We found this great little document, compiled by the Better Kid Care Program at Penn State University, full of tips for teaching your child to cook. You’ll find ways to generate interest in cooking at various ages, tips for working with your child in the kitchen, a couple of easy snacks you and your child can create together, and a list of books to spark interest and teach skills.

And speaking of books, we have a couple of our own to recommend, if you’re looking for ways to engage your child in the kitchen. Fix-It and Forget-It Kids’ Cookbook is full of easy slow-cooker recipes for the younger set. Because the recipes don’t involve either the stove or the oven, they’re great for younger children just starting to show interest in the kitchen.

The Mayo Clinic Kids’ Cookbook is chock-full of healthy snacks, breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and desserts to create with your child. With easy-to-understand directions and simple ingredient lists, older children will be able to whip up meals on their own. Both cookbooks include beautiful full-color photos of each recipe.