How To Build Your Kids’ Confidence by Cooking

Ask Their Opinions

Let them weigh in on the details. Offer choices. “What type of pizza would you like to make -- pepperoni or hamburger?” “Would you like to bake one cake or cupcakes?” They feel valued when you turn to them for their input. And when they give their opinions, validate them. Tell them why their idea is a great one! Even if they come up with an outlandish idea, you can still compliment their creativity.

Involve Them in Every Step of Preparing Meals

My membership, "Teach Your Kids to Cook," is perfect for school age children. The older they are, the less adult supervision they need. The step-by-step videos (starring my two sons showcasing their own cooking skills) will guide you through making an entire meal from start to finish - even if your child has never cooked before!

To learn more about the membership, click here.

If your little ones are not ready to actually cook, there are still plenty of jobs to make them feel like they are playing an important role in preparing the family meal. Let them write the shopping list. Or push buttons on the oven. Teach them to set the timer. Let them dump seasonings into the pan. Let them turn on the water to fill the pot. Even toddlers can play with wooden spoons and mixing bowls to feel included.

Choose Your Words Carefully

When we are learning new things, positive feedback is always more pleasant to receive. Instead of saying, “You did that wrong.” Try, “Cupcakes are extra fluffy when you stop stirring the batter as soon as you see everything is mixed together.”

Know Your Limits

Too many cooks in the kitchen can be more stressful than joyful. If you find yourself not enjoying the process because siblings are arguing with each other about whose turn it is to stir, try cooking with one child at a time. 

Choose Your Time Wisely

All parents of littles know about the witching hour. That end of the day slump when they are tired and hungry and overall less cooperative. That is not the ideal time to get the kids in the kitchen. Maybe Saturday brunch gives you the opportunity to cook at a more leisurely pace. If you have early risers, let them make their own breakfast before you get started making a meal together.