However, with its hot stove, whirring appliances and sharp knives, the kitchen can be a dangerous place for children. Share these simple guidelines and precautions with your kids to help ensure that time spent in the kitchen is safe and productive.
Before cooking
• Get permission to use the kitchen. Depending on the age of the budding chef and the recipe, adult supervision may be required throughout the process.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before handling food. Also wash hands regularly during cooking, to prevent cross-contamination. (ie - germs from raw meats transferring to your fresh cut veggies)
• Tie back long hair to prevent it from falling into food or catching fire.
• Wear an apron to protect clothing.
• Always read the recipe with an adult before starting anything. Look for any spots during the cooking process where assistance or supervision is required, such as pouring boiling water, using a knife or using the oven.
• To keep yourself organized and efficient, gather all ingredients and equipment needed before starting to cook. You don't want to be missing critical ingredients halfway through a recipe.
During cooking
• Don't run in the kitchen.
• Hold knives by their handles only, even when carrying them.
• Use dry pot holders to move or touch hot pots or pans. Wet or damp pot holders transfer heat and can burn hands.
• Point pan handles away from edge of stove to prevent them catching and tipping or spilling.
• Never leave any cooking unattended.
• Always use a timer. It is easy to get distracted and forget about those cookies in the oven until it's too late. A timer is a welcome reminder and prevents burnt cookie bottoms.
• Prevent fires: never leave tea towels on the stove top.
Page 1 of 2 – On page 2, learn about special equipment just for kids who love to be in the kitchen.
