Kids in the kitchen: Getting started safely

Why the kitchen is both fun and serious business

The kitchen is a bit like a science lab — full of fun experiments and delicious results. But just like in any lab, there are rules! Safety always comes first.

1. Hygiene: Rule No. 1 before touching any food!

Tips for young chefs:

• Handwashing (the 20-second rule): Always wash your hands before cooking, after touching raw meat or eggs, and after sneezing, coughing, or wiping your nose.

• What to wear: Long hair should be tied back. Clean clothes or an apron help prevent the spread of bacteria.

• Clean surfaces and utensils: Always work on clean countertops and cutting boards. Use separate boards for raw meat and for fruits/vegetables.

2. Safe handling of tools: Becoming a cutting pro

Tips for young chefs:

• Knives and blades: Use only knives approved by an adult — preferably kid-safe or serrated plastic knives for fruits and vegetables.

• Carrying rule: Always carry a knife with the blade pointing down and hold it by the handle. Never walk around with a knife in your hand.

• “Claw technique”: Curl your fingers inward like a claw to keep them safe when chopping.

• Electric appliances: Blenders, choppers, toasters — use them only with dry hands and when properly assembled. Never reach into a running blender or chopper.

3. Heat and fire: Using the stove and oven safely

Tips for young chefs:

• Oven: Never use it alone. Always wear oven mitts and hold baking trays with both hands. Stand to the side when opening the oven to avoid hot steam.

• Stovetop: Cook on the back burners whenever possible. Turn pan handles inward to prevent knocking them over.

• Spills and splashes: Never pour water on hot oil — it can cause flames! Be extra careful when stirring hot liquids.

4. Dividing tasks: What kids can do on their own

Safe tasks for kids (with supervision nearby):

• Washing fruits and vegetables

• Mixing cold ingredients (like salad or pancake batter)

• Measuring dry ingredients (flour, sugar, etc.)

• Kneading dough

• Setting the table

Tasks that always need adult help:

• Using the oven (putting in or taking out hot trays)

• Deep-frying or working with hot oil

• Using sharp kitchen knives

The golden rule: Listening

Cooking is teamwork! When an adult gives safety instructions, that’s the most important rule to follow. With these basics, you’ll become a confident and safe kitchen helper — ready to cook, learn, and have fun. 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳

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