Involving children in food preparation increases interest in the nutritious meals prepared. At the same time, cooking and prep work can be used to teach basic skills, increase self-confidence, and reinforce classroom lessons. Preschool age children are capable of assisting in food preparation. The links below provide further information about how to engage young children in this process.
Tips and Guidelines for Cooking with Children
South Dakota Physical Activities and Healthy Snacks for Young Children
South Dakota Departments of Education, Health, and Social Services. This recipe guide includes tips for involving young children in food preparation. It lists appropriate activities by age group and includes recipes that young children may participate in.
Cooking with Preschool Children
Growing Minds. This document includes information about cooking with preschool children, including learning activity ideas, tips, recipe ideas, and age-appropriate activities.
Making Food Healthy and Safe For Children
The National Training Institute for Child Care Health Consultants. These guidelines include ideas for involving students in food preparation while also including parents in food-related activities.
Cooking with Preschoolers
KidsHealth from Nemours. This website includes information on the benefits of including preschoolers in food preparation, ideal tasks for preschoolers, and general tips.