Kids are frequently quite eager to assist, particularly in the kitchen (usually when a taste-tester is required).
But as we all know, children might be in danger in the kitchen. The following advice should be kept in mind when Sunny Anderson or Bobby Flay join you in the kitchen. Oh, and these suggestions are suitable for children, so you may print them off and discuss them with your little one before cooking the following meal.
BUY KITCHEN BEGINNERS SETS FOR KIDS ->
7 Child Safety Tips For The Kitchen
#1 – Don’t cook with dirty hands
All tiny (and large) hands must be cleansed for at least 20 seconds before preparing meals. This should be a kitchen’s golden rule. This stops you from spreading germs to others and getting sick. You’re on the right track if you sing “Happy Birthday” twice while doing the dishes.
#2 – Dress appropriately before cooking
Has your youngster grown any long hair? It’s time to pull it back into a ponytail so that it doesn’t fall into the food when you’re preparing it. To avoid mishaps when using forks and knives in the kitchen, make sure kids roll up their sleeves and put on closed-toed shoes. Additionally, this avoids any burns from hot foods. To help them keep their clothing clean, if you are able, tie an apron on them.
#3 – Separate raw foods and cooked foods
Keep your raw foods and cooked meals apart, especially when it comes to raw meats. You must keep the chicken in a different container from the vegetables while making chicken and vegetables. When handling cooked and raw meals, you must also take care to utilize different cutting boards and equipment. This lessens the chance of illness spreading and cross-contamination.
#4 – Always wash your hands after handling raw foods
Use the 20-second guideline when washing your hands to help prevent food-borne illnesses.
#5 – No taste-testing without an adults say so
One of the finest aspects of cooking is tasting the results, but it’s crucial for your youngster to get permission beforehand. They can become ill by eating foods like cookie dough and cake mix since they contain uncooked eggs. Make sure they use a different utensil for stirring and plating if they use one for tasting.
#6 – No touching the stove
Informing your youngster that the stove is “hands-off” will prevent them from getting burned. This is crucial for younger kids since, while bigger kids might be capable of handling some stovetop things, they’ll still require your permission and supervision. By keeping them from adjusting the stove’s settings, you not only reduce the chance that they may get burned but also prevent any unintentional fires from starting.
#7 – No touching knives or other sharp objects
Tell young children to “hands off” around knives and other sharp objects. Between the ages of 2 and 4, children are less likely to be developed enough to hold a knife properly and are more likely to have an accident. If you have an older child that is competent with knives, instruct them to:
- Firmly grasp the handle.
- Keep the knife far from your body.
- Holding a knife, proceed with caution (walk only, do not run).
See how to keep little kids out of unwanted drawers and cupboards with our list of babyproof drawers products.
BUY KITCHEN BEGINNERS SETS FOR KIDS ->
Notes for Adults to Remember
- Keep a watchful eye on your children since, when an adult isn’t looking, they can easily damage themselves with utensils, hot food, and appliances. You can direct them and correct them if necessary by watching how they prepare food, move goods, and set the table.
- Keep the kitchen orderly and clean. After a hard day, it may be tempting to leave the sink full of dishes, but keep in mind that a clean, organized kitchen helps prevent accidents and illnesses. Spills should be cleaned up right away, and cleaning as you go is an excellent technique.
- The oven should also be turned off before leaving the kitchen. Remind yourself to turn off and disconnect any appliances before leaving the kitchen. Smaller equipment like hand mixers, food processors, and others should be unplugged and stored.
BUY KITCHEN BEGINNERS SETS FOR KIDS ->
Who Can Do What In The Kitchen, At What Age?
Here is a small list of activities organized by age group that children can do safely. Always use your best judgment if you don’t think your youngster is capable or old enough for any of these responsibilities.
Preschoolers (2 – 5 yrs.)
- Pick herbs, fruits, vegetables
- Wash off herbs, fruits, and vegetables under cold water
- Add spices to food
- Pour wet ingredients into a mixing bowl
- Stir ingredients in a mixing bowl
School-Aged Children (6 – 9 yrs.)
- Dice up fruits and vegetables (use your best judgement on utensil type)
- Measure out ingredients and add to mixing bowl
- Mix with an electric mixer
- Sift flour and roll out dough
- Plate food and set the table