Kids who take cooking lessons learn a variety of skills.
Cooking activities can help kids better understand nutrition, the science of food, and mathematics (i.e., measuring), and inspire creativity. Illinois families looking for a local children's cooking program will find a variety of classes across the state. The classes offer expert instruction on kitchen basics such as safety and equipment use, as well as hands-on culinary arts experiences.
Cucina Della Rosa
The Cucina Della Rosa Cooking School in Barrington, Illinois, offers a variety of kids' cooking classes that help children learn the basics and get valuable hands-on kitchen experience. The Mommy and Me class, located at the Barrington Farmers' Market, is designed for preschoolers ages 4 through 6 years and a parent. Kids (and their accompanying adult) can make simple seasonal foods such as caramel apples or decorate cookies. Parents looking for a special culinary activity can take advantage of holiday classes such as the Father's or Mother's Day brunch. Children and parents can get some quality kitchen time in and enjoy a nutritious meal together. Older kids (ages 9 and older) can participate in one of many different classes or summer camps. These themed workshops provide expert instruction, hands-on cooking experience and an introduction to kitchen tools. Topics include holidays, Italian cooking, kitchen basics, and cooking and science.
Cucina Della Rosa
115 Hough St.
Barrington, IL 60010
847-650-9463
maryrosecooks.com
The Chopping Block
The Chopping Block, located in Chicago, provides basic culinary instruction for children ages 7 years and older through the summer cooking camp program. These 4-day afternoon workshops are perfect for the budding chef and culinary enthusiast. Camp themes vary annually, but can include World Cuisines (e.g., French, Italian, Chinese), All-American Cooking with an emphasis on local cuisine, or Breakfast to Bedtime (e.g., a day's worth of meals). High school students can enjoy special 5-day teen camps that include four days of instruction and a fifth day of a cooking competition. Registration can be completed online or by calling the school directly.
The Chopping Block
4747 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
773-472-6700
thechoppingblock.net
Mettler Cooking School
Kids ages 5 through 11 years can enjoy Mettler Cooking School's "Kids Cook" program. This class focuses on healthy cooking and nutrition, as well as making smart food choices when eating in restaurants. All students will receive instruction, hands-on experience and the opportunity to sample the final product. Kids younger than 5 years of age can enroll with a parent partner. Kids who are interested in a more in-depth culinary experience might want to try the "Kids Can Cook" camp. This week-long summer program features healthy cooking and exercise instruction. Mettler also offers "Fit and Fun" kids' birthday parties. These 2-hour parties include instruction on baking a birthday cake, games and exercises, paper chef's hats that the guests can decorate, paper ware/utensils, decorations and invitations. Birthday party reservations can be made for no less than six and no more than 12 children.
Mettler Cooking School
2906 Crossing Court
Champaign, IL 61822
217-356-6543
mettlercenter.com
Tags: Cooking School, Chopping Block, Cucina Della, Cucina Della Rosa, Della Rosa, Mettler Cooking, Mettler Cooking School