It is well established that children begin the learning process by exploring the world using their senses. They touch, smell, taste, look at and listen to everything. Children really enjoy helping to prepare food because they can use all their senses. They also like to eat the foods they make; so choose nutritious snacks and meals to make together to aide physical development and instill good eating habits. As children grow older, begin to have them help out in the kitchen more often, explain about good habits, and share valuable time together. All you t need to do is to plan well and remember to consider the child's age before assigning any complicated tasks.

You can start this process at about two years of age. Toddlers are still developing large muscles and appropriate activities for the "kitchen helper" at this age could include having the child help scrubbing vegetables and fruits, wiping tables, and preparing salads by tearing apart lettuce and other salad greens.