Here’s a free download of the cookbook I’ve used for years to teach hundreds of kids baking skills. It’s a great way to keep those young minds and busy hands occupied. As a former homeschooler, I see this time off from the classroom as an opportunity for hands-on learning.
The summer is also the perfect time for introducing them to new flavors. Let them pick a new fruit from the produce section. Get them involved in preparing food. Even young hands can use kid-friendly knives to cut up fruit and some veggies. My grandkids love to walk around my garden and smell the herbs, pick tomatoes, and enjoy fresh snap peas right off the vine.
Exploring new cuisines also allows you to travel the world without leaving home. At a kids’ baking class I’m doing this summer, we’re exploring different countries by making authentic dishes. I have those recipes and country profiles tucked into the end of my free download.
Older kids can do meal planning, which is great practice for when they’ll live on their own. It also helps them practice practical math, like how to double or reduce a recipe, measuring equivalents, and handling fractions.
Yes, the kids will make a mess. Yes, they will probably burn or overbake something. But celebrating progress over perfection, encouraging them when they try new foods, and giving kudos when they cook for the family all go a long way to build confidence and self-esteem.
Happy Baking!