My son is interested in learning how to cook, how can I get him involved in the kitchen?


Not only is cooking a fun way to spend time together, it is a great opportunity to get children interested (and even excited) about eating healthy foods. As children follow recipes and measure ingredients, they also learn important math and reading skills. Start by choosing something fun and easy to make that includes some simple steps that your son can help out with (like gathering and measuring ingredients or mixing). Use a stool so your son can easily reach and see what he is doing. When cooking together, it is best to do it at a time when you are not rushed or tired as it will likely take a little longer and be a little messier! It is also a good idea to go over kitchen safety with your son before starting any recipe together. If you need a little inspiration, check out Raddish (raddishkids.com), a new monthly subscription service that provides parents with recipe guides, shopping lists, and step-by-step instructions on how to get kids involved in the kitchen.

Jennie Ito, Ph.D.

Child Development Expert

Jennie Ito is a mother of two and a child development consultant who specializes in children’s play and toys. Before becoming a consultant for LeapFrog, she was an intern at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC, and later worked as a content expert for the Association of Children’s Museum’s “Playing for Keeps” Play Initiative. Jennie earned her doctorate degree in developmental psychology at Queen’s University in Ontario, Canada.