Getting your children involved in the kitchen is one of the best ways to teach them about good nutrition and to give them life skills which they will use forever. Cooking is also a fantastic activity for family bonding as you can share the creative experience as well as the enjoyment of eating the food afterwards. It is also great for self esteem; imagine the pride your child will have in their achievements if they cook something the whole family can enjoy!



So, put down that magazine with the fascinating Beauty Tips article and get ready to do some cooking this teatime when the kids come home from school! If you have more than one child then choose a recipe which involves several tasks so you can share them out. If it is just you and one child then something more complicated may well be possible as you can help them closely every step of the way. Perhaps their favourite meal is the best place to start.


As you prepare the food talk about the different ingredients and how they change from raw components into a finished dish through cooking. Chat about a balanced diet and why a range of nutrients is important for health and growth. If at all possible you could get them to try a new taste too – broadening their experience and palette is always a good idea. If you are struggling to get them interested then try to link healthy eating to a topic they do like: for example a fashion conscious teenage girl may want to know that their skin will improve with a better diet so that when they follow the latest Make up tips they will look at their best.

And finally, make a big deal out of sitting to the table altogether and eating the food which you have all prepared. Remember, the family who eats together, stays together.