KIDS COOK UP A STORM

Kids these days are becoming more adventurous. They don't only want to eat - they want to learn to cook too!

How useful it is to be able to cook. Cooking is a life skill. By learning how to cook, kids actually learn so many other important things as well. Do you know what else you will be able to learn if you learn to cook or bake?

• Nutrition - Cooking can teach you how to eat healthy foods and why it is important to have a balanced diet.

• Spelling - Reading recipes and labels can help you to spell and read better. It also helps you learn new words.

• Math - You can learn about volume and weight when measuring ingredients.

• Science and chemistry - Cooking and baking can teach you what happens to food when it is mixed together and cooked. Why does bread rise? Why does cream puff up when you whisk it?

• Responsibility - By learning to cook, you can learn how to become more independent and confident. You will feel more grown-up when you learn to do certain things yourself.

• Culture - You can learn about the different foods that people eat in other countries.

Cooking classes are a great way to spend the school holidays. Ask Mum and Dad if you could attend a cooking class or two during your holidays. Or better yet - you can even learn to cook in your own home kitchen! Hang around the kitchen and pitch in when Mum or Dad cooks.

Look for fun and simple recipes and try them out with Mum's help. Who knows, by the end of your holidays, you might be able to cook an entire meal all by yourself!

Remember to always stay safe though. Cooking involves heat and sharp utensils. Always ask an adult to watch you in the kitchen.

Have you ever cooked something by yourself? If not, what is the first dish you would like to learn to make?