Kids in the Kitchen

Seeking to empower kids and teens to become more actively involved in the planning, preparation and cooking of family meals, the YCA or Young Chefs Academy declared September 13 to be National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day.

For those not familiar with YCA, it is a cooking school franchise company with locations both in the US and abroad. Their mission is to teach children the joy and value of cooking and the opportunity to develop a life-long love for the culinary arts. And yes, I got the opening remarks straight off their website.

While I am not making light of the importance of developing these skills in our children, it saddens me to know we are sending our children off to “kid-friendly” kitchens to develop a skill that was once taught at home. Whenever possible, I think everyday should include children in the kitchen. It’s a great way to bond as a family. I miss not having little ones under foot. I miss no longer being the child in my Dad’s kitchen. Those are memories that will last forever.

Sure, PB and J Sandwiches might not be the greatest thing you make with your children, but what you make isn’t nearly as important as time spent together. Have fun with it, whatever “it” may be. I picked PB and J Cut-outs because today is also National Peanut Day. It made sense to me . . .

PB and J Sandwich Cut-Outs
6 slices White Bread
1/3 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
2 tablespoons Strawberry Fruit Spread
2 tablespoons Concord Grape Fruit Spread
2 tablespoons Blackberry Fruit Spread

Using a serrated knife, trim the crusts from the bread slices.

Using a small cookie cutter or canape cutter, cut out a shape such as a star in the center of 3 slices of bread. Set aside.

Spread peanut butter evenly on the remaining 3 slices of bread. Spoon fruit spread on top of the peanut butter in the center, then carefully spread into a circle.

Place the cut-out bread on top. Serve and enjoy.

This recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled. Remember, when cooking for children other than your own, make sure there are not food allergies, especially to breads and nuts.

Author: Rosemarie's Kitchen

I'm a wife, mother, grandmother and avid home cook.I believe in eating healthy whenever possible, while still managing to indulge in life's pleasures. View all posts by Rosemarie's Kitchen