MAYBookREV2

manufacturing plant and watch as your child looks over the whole process with wide eyes filled with amazement. Or take him to where he can pick his own berries or fruit right off the trees. Learning about the sources of different foods is the preliminary aspect to becoming a great chef. Check out these You-Pick Farms: Adams Farm 486 HWY 54 W. in Fayetteville • Whitley Farms 917 Bob Smith Rd. in Sharpsburg • Gregg Farms 5634 Concord Rd. in Concord • Fitzgerald Fruit Farms 3355 Imlac Rd in Woodbury Or plan a trip to www.chamberlainschocolate.com Of course, if you have the space, you can help little Lucy start her very own veggie garden. Choose easy and fast growing plants like beans, peas, or tomatoes. The technique of growing their own food is one of those foundational lessons which will stay with them forever. And you don’t need a ton of room, or even an outside plot. If all you have are a semi-sunny window and a yogurt container that is a start. The lesson is what matters, not the produce. recipes and kitchen tools. Visit your local children’s book store or local library and search for interesting, picture-filled cookbooks to inspire both yourself and your child. Kitchen Rules & Safety: Books also make great sources for information regarding food,

Communication is an important component of learning one’s way around the kitchen, most particularly when we are instructing children. From an early age children can learn the rules about kitchen safety, how to respect this unique area of their home. They must be made to realize that their behavior is important when certain elements or tools, such as the stove or sharp knives, are in use. Certainly, we should alter our habits to be mindful when our children assist us. We need to remember that they are learning and should not be entrusted with tasks or responsibilities beyond their skill level. Children require constant supervision, so always err on the side of safety. Enforcing a requirement of cleanliness in the kitchen is of utmost importance and instills healthy habits for your future culinary artist. Before beginning any projects, insure all parties wash their hands. Keeping young fingers out of noses and mouths can be a tricky task, but a gentle reminder and explanation is often enough. Dressing the Part: Remember to dress your little helper, as well as yourself, appropriately in aprons or other such kitchen attire. This not only gives you both a sense of ambition and purpose, but also keeps cooking messes off of your regular clothing. In addition, this sense of

Say you found it at just4families

11