COOKING WITH CHILDREN

COOKING WITH CHILDREN

Tips For Cooking With Kids In Afterschool Programs

• Find out which children in your group have food allergies or special diets (use the Food Tasting Permission Slip).
• Remind children not to handle sharp objects or cooking appliances without the help of an adult. Cook with foods that can be cut with safe plastic knives.
• Allow time for children to wash their hands with soap and warm water before handling food (even if they will be wearing gloves).
• Review the importance of covering your mouth when you sneeze or cough and that you must then wash your hands.
• Model healthy eating habits and safe cooking practices in front of children.
• Wear clean aprons. They protect the food from your clothing as much as they protect your clothing from spills.
• Don't cross contaminate foods by sharing cutting boards with both raw and cooked foods.
• Refrigerate perishable foods immediately; if food is left out more than two hours throw it away.
• Minimize bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods by using protective gloves and utensils.
• Always read the entire recipe through with children before starting.