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A Recipe for Kid’s Safety in the Kitchen
Although occasions like holidays or family get-togethers present children with the opportunity to learn about cooking, it can be potentially dangerous without the proper kitchen safety precautions. It’s important to keep kids safe while they learn how to help out in the kitchen.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby and post emergency numbers by the phone in case of emergency.
- Close supervision is essential, never leave a child unattended in the kitchen.
- Never hold a child while cooking
- Put pans on the back burners and turn all panhandles toward the back of the stove.
- Use caution when heating food and liquids in the microwave. Keep a close eye on the food in the microwave.
- Never allow children to take foods out of the microwave.
- Place hot foods and liquids away from the edges of counters and tables.
- Unplug appliances when not in use and tie them up out of the reach of children.
Tasks that are Age-Appropriate for your child in the kitchen:
- It is important to consider each child’s developmental level and capabilities when assigned roles in the kitchen.
- Generally, children under the age of 10 do not understand the potential dangers in the kitchen. They should not be in charge of handling a stove, electrical appliances, hot dishes, or sharp utensils. Younger children should be placed in charge of things such as washing the fruits and vegetables, the tasks that do not require any of the above items.
Over Age 5 can:
- Stir ingredients together
- Rinse foods under water
- Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes in dough
Over age 9 can:
- Use a butter knife to spread peanut butter, or slice soft cheese
- Squeeze garlic from a garlic press
- Use electrical kitchen appliances such as a blender, food processor, electric mixer, microwave or toaster oven.
Ages 12 and up can:
- Chop or slice with a paring knife
- Use the stovetop to turn burners on and off
- Flip pancakes on hot griddle
- Place a tray of cookies in the oven
- Peel vegetables
- Use an electric can opener
- Shred cheese with a hand grater
Older children can take on more responsibility in the kitchen. Keep in mind, however, that you know your child best, and they may or may not be able to do what their age level is ready for.
Children over age 14 can:
- Operate the stovetop without adult supervision
- Drain cooked spaghetti into a colander
- Remove a tray of cookies from the oven
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