December 8, 2008

Kids cooking in the kitchen = less picky eaters?

I recently read of a study done by the Teachers College at Columbia University where researchers studied the affects of a child's eating habits when allowed to help cook. Cooking classes were offered to teach children how to cook. "The researchers found that children who had cooked their own foods were more likely to eat those foods in the cafeteria, and even ask for seconds, than children who had not had the cooking class." This included radishes, folks.

I've noticed when I allow my kids to help me prepare desserts, not only do they love the quality time spent together but they're more inclined to try the new treat we've made. [Light-bulb frantically blinking.]

What if I do what was once unthinkable and allow them to help me prepare dinner, scary knives and hot stoves included (but highly supervised and guarded)?

My second child is quite the picky eater. Children #1 and #3 will eat anything I put in front of them, so dinner for child #2 has been a frustrating task for me.

I guess it's time to play a new version of the dinner game??