L ife can be tough for grade-schoolers: At this age, they're developing their own likes, opinions, and desires, but can't always act on them because they're "too young." Fostering their growing independence can be
L ife can be tough for grade-schoolers: At this age, they're developing their own likes, opinions, and desires, but can't always act on them because they're "too young." Fostering their growing independence can be tricky for parents, too: How do you empower your child within safe, reasonable limits?
One great way to do it: Put kids to work in the kitchen. "Cooking is about self-efficacy," says Stefania Patinella, director of food and nutrition for the Children's Aid Society of New York City, whose programs include Go!Chefs healthy cooking classes for kids. "When kids cook, they think, I can do this! And that self-esteem can be more important than the actual skills they gain at this stage."
Besides building confidence, cooking can give your grade-schooler the power of choice. Hmm, she might think. I can eat what I want if I can make it myself. Get your grade-schooler in on family meal planning, and you may be surprised at how well she rises to the task. Giving her a stake in important family decisions lets her know that her opinions matter. When she participates in the cooking and planning process, she gains practical life skills and gets to feel "heard," too. What's not to love?
So how do you make sure the process is a success? Give your young ones the skills they need to follow through, from the safe and proper way to sauté to how to choose the most healthful cut of meat. But the most important thing you can do for your child at this stage is to be his trusted advisor,while letting him make decisions. Here you'll find a handy rundown of kitchen skills you and your young one can work on together, plus a handful of recipes that help you put them into practice. Happy cooking!