Firstly, students gain valuable skills that they will need to have when they leave home and cook for themselves. Teaching children how to cook is a way of combating lethargy in the kitchen, giving kids tools to make food that is nutritious and soul satisfying. In our classes kids learn how to prepare food from scratch, experiencing many ways to cook or prepare recipes. Many students have expressed surprise on finding that they actually like vegetables that they were convinced they hated when they arrived. During class we frequently discuss the need to keep an open mind about trying things and it is inspiring how many kids rise to the occasion.

Secondly, cooking builds confidence and self esteem. I am really surprised at how timid some of the students seem on the first day of class. They have no idea what to expect but their eyes tell me they think it might not be good. By the end of the class they are so absorbed in the work of their group and the smell of what they are preparing, that they have lost their inhibitions.

Finally, this is what I love about cooking: when we reach the end of the class, and students realize that they have produced something that tastes really good, you can see their pride.

This is what makes cooking with children so rewarding!

Sincerest regards,
Teacher Karen C. D. Ferreira