Benefits of Cooking with your Child

When I'm working on picky eating in the therapy setting, I always make sure I incorporate some elements of cooking and meal prep.

It can be a fun and rewarding experience for both of you. Even young children can help with simple tasks in the kitchen, such as stirring, measuring, and washing fruits and vegetables. Giving your child age-appropriate tasks will help them feel involved and important. Cooking is a learning process, and everyone makes mistakes (trust me, I know from experience).

There are many benefits to cooking with your child, including:

• Increased confidence: Cooking can help children feel more confident in their abilities. When they are able to successfully complete a recipe, they feel a sense of accomplishment. This can boost their self-esteem and self-confidence.
• Improved fine motor skills: Cooking requires children to use their fine motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination and dexterity. Tasks such as stirring, measuring, and chopping can help children develop these skills.
• Learning about food: It can help children learn about different foods and how they are prepared. This can lead to a greater appreciation for healthy eating and a more adventurous palate.
• Developing math and literacy skills: It can help children develop math and literacy skills. Measuring ingredients, following recipes, and reading food labels can all help children learn about these important subjects.
• Building relationships: It can be a great way to bond with your child. It is a fun and informal activity that allows you to spend time together and talk about your day.
• Teaching life skills: Cooking can teach children important life skills, such as following directions, taking turns, and cleaning up after themselves. These skills can help them be successful in school and in life.
• Encouraging creativity: Cooking can be a creative outlet for children. They can experiment with different flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. This can help them develop their creativity and imagination.

Cooking with your child is a great way to spend time together, teach them important life skills, and help them develop a lifelong love of food.