You have probably been wondering when your kids can start helping you out in the kitchen. Before you start letting them help you out in the kitchen, it’s appropriate to know what’s okay for them to do as well as what isn’t. The following tips will help you learn how to teach your kids different tasks appropriately. You can also check this beginner’s cooking guide by StoneFryingPans.

• Correct timing

You should remember that you shouldn’t teach your kids different kitchen skills during the late hours of the night. Wait for a convenient time like the weekend, when you don’t have to rush. You’ll be more relaxed and patient with them, which is very important. They also need to be more focused to learn tasks like how to make coffee and run the dishwasher.

• Eye on the prize

When introducing your kids to cooking, you shouldn’t expect the type of food you get in restaurants. What you’re doing is boosting their self-esteem and encouraging their transition into independence. Don’t be hard on them; let them learn slowly. You have done a great job if you are excited to have spent time in the kitchen and helped you out at the end of the day.

• Food safety

This is the most important thing you can teach them when they learn how to cook. The fundamental aspects of food safety include: their hands should be kept clean while preparing food, they shouldn’t lick their fingers, raw and cooked food should be kept separate, and when cooking, the right temperature should be used. Caution them on cross-contamination. Cooked food shouldn’t be put on platters that had raw food. The other rule is they should clean utensils after using them.

• Using the dishwasher

The first step should be explaining to them how it works when it’s empty. Afterward, add dirty utensils and show them where everything goes depending on how you arrange yours. Teach them to always put plates and cups in the dishwasher instead of having the sink full of dirty dishes. Have their items on a low shelf to make it easier for them to unload the dishwasher.

• Using a microwave

This is the easiest appliance you can teach them to use and most useful. You should teach them four basic things when they’re learning how to use most microwave models: melting, defrosting, cooking, and cleaning.

• Watch your terminology

Kids aren’t as advanced as you’re in terms of words. If you use tough words like sauté, sear, or fold, they’ll be confused until you explain well. Therefore when you use such terminology, make sure you define them and understand what you mean. You can also use more straightforward language if you find that works better for them.

• Use of hot pads

It’s easy to burn yourself in the kitchen, even as an adult. So have your children always wear hot pads when dealing with hot mixtures. They should be worn when food is removed from the oven or microwave and when holding all-metal pans on the stovetop. They shouldn’t lick hot food or even handle it, and if they get hurt, they should tell you or any other adult around. Ensure you always keep a first aid kit in your kitchen.

• Shoes and Safe Clothing

It’s advisable to wear shoes in the kitchen, both for you and your child. You’ll be protecting your feet from accidents, and they offer traction. Safe clothing is also essential. Teach them not to wear clothes with long and flowy sleeves. Also, avoid wearing anything flammable such as synthetic fabric or loose clothing.