The Ultimate Gift Guide for Your Junior Chef

The littlest ones in our family want to help us around the house. Children are always trying to assert their independence, and I can think of no better place to allow them to do that than in the kitchen. I found this to be the case when my husband received orders to South Korea. It was an isolated tour; meaning we (the twins, my mother- whom I was a full-time caregiver to- and I) had to remain behind in El Paso. The twins had just turned six, but they wanted to help. They would unload the dishwasher, set up the coffeemaker for my morning cup of joe, and even make basic dishes- like salads. They taught me that even the smallest hands can contribute greatly. In light of that, I’m giving you the Ultimate Gift Guide for the Junior Chefs in your life!

Kitchen Knife and Foldable Cutting Board Set

Kids should become familiar with knives as early as you deem safe. They should not only learn to handle and respect knives, they should also learn their proper use and care. This knife set will give your children an intro into knife skills. Let them cut lettuce or other similar items, and give them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment.

Cut Resistant Gloves

When handling knives there’s always the inherent risk of cutting oneself. When it comes to kids, the risk is even greater. These cut resistant gloves are made just for smaller hands and come in two different colors. Sizes range from small (ages 4-8), medium (8-12), and large (12+).

17-Piece Measure & Prep Kit

Give your little chef all they need with the measure and prep set. I love that little ones can have their own set of measuring cups and spoons, and you know how much I love prep bowls!

Kitchen Helper Stool

Nothing is better than having your children right by your side watching and learning in the kitchen. Because our best recipes are handed down through the generations in this very intimate way, it’s important to make them comfy and safe. Set junior in this foldable, counter-high kitchen stool and put them to work stirring, kneading, or peeling. They’ll love being your big helper and you’ll build memories that will last a lifetime.

Adjustable Kid Bib Aprons

Messes happen- especially in the kitchen. This apron and arm guard set will cut down on the frustration and burns and, at the same time, amp up their creativity. This multi-use apron is not only great for cooking, it’s perfect for arts and crafts time too!

Baking Class: 50 Fun Recipes Kids Will Love to Bake!

Kids who can read will find that having their own cookbook opens up a whole new world. With 50 recipes, this book is an intro to baking taught in way kids will enjoy.

Silicone Egg Rings

The hardest thing I’ve ever taught my children to do in the kitchen is crack an egg. It’s a messy affair, but once they’ve mastered it, they can begin cooking their own eggs. The silicone egg rings are perfect for breakfast sandwiches, eggs benedict, or on their own. Their handy-dandy handles make them safer than the standard metal rings.

Beginner’s Cake Baking Set Tools for Teenagers

At a certain point in every child’s life, they want to begin feeling, and being treated, like an adult. The twins reached that point this year. They were tired of me only letting them make salads and wash dishes. So, I decided to buy them this cake baking set after they said they wanted to make my next birthday cake. Whichever one shows the most proficiency (or love for it) will be able to take everything with them when they fly the nest…

…aaaaand now I’m depressed. Gimme a minute.

Organic Cotton Lunch Bag

Okay, I’m good.
This lunch bag literally made me LOL. This totally screams “TEENAGER”!! Now they can carry their lunch to-and-fro in style and sass.

Indoor Herb Garden Starter Kit

Teach your kiddos the importance of sourcing your ingredients locally. Getting their hands dirty while growing herbs to use in their kitchen is a treat. Because food just tastes better when you know where it came from and how it was grown. As a result, the sense of pride that comes from growing and harvesting their own herbs to make in their cooking can’t be matched.

And if the Ultimate Gift Guide isn’t enough, there’s more!

Taste & See Cooks

Nothing makes a person feel special like having a book made out to them. This 500 page cookbook is a great gift for the young chef in your life. It also makes a fantastic gift for your college student. I’ll sign it just for your chef.
Include it, a few cooking utensils, and one or two of the gifts listed here in a gift basket and you’ll be the best parent ever. Not that you aren’t already. You’ll be the best-est parent, I mean.

Tell me, do your kiddos like to cook with you?

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