We talk a lot about cooking here in Guidepost Parent.

Maybe because families spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Maybe because everyone likes to eat!

Or maybe because children can learn a lot of practical skills while cooking.

In “The Real Reason to Teach Your Kids to Cook“, mom Stacy Basko speaks from experience when describing what she learned while cooking as a child.

“My confidence soared. Cooking made me proud, like I could take care of myself and others, at least for one meal.”

Confidence and independence are skills that children learn in the kitchen but that can be applied to other areas of life like academic studies, organized sports, and hobbies.

Ms. Basko is passing on the lessons she learned in the kitchen to her two children. “These days, most of the learning happens in my own kitchen.” she says. “With backup from my husband…I’m teaching my 10-year-old twins how to make dinner.”

While learning to whisk or sauté, your child could also be learning cooperation, time management or concentration.

Consider this the next time your child would like to help with dinner! In fact, let them pick a recipe and lead the way.

Dinner suggestion: Black Bean Enchilada Casserole

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