Prawn and Chorizo Stir Fry
Corr, who's having a bang on that?
By Joe Wicks
I love getting my children in the kitchen cooking with me. Along with learning to love movement and exercise, I think it’s one of the most important life skills we can give them.
Is it calm, stress-free and serene? Absolutely not! It's chaotic and messy…very messy! But the benefits it has on our children far outweigh any negatives. Plus, it's an investment that will pay off in so many ways.
When I first started getting my kids involved with cooking around the age of 3, we'd do simple things like letting them stir in peanut butter to their porridge or slice up a banana with a butter knife. We then progressed onto things like whisking eggs in a bowl and making scrambled eggs.
Now, my 5-year-old daughter can use a sharper knife to chop her own veg for a stir fry, knows when the chicken is properly cooked through, and can even whip up her own cheesy omelette for breakfast.
I’m still right there beside her, but she’s fully capable of cutting safely, gauging the heat of the pan and making a really delicious breakfast. Nothing makes me happier than seeing her learn a new recipe – and she is really starting to love it, too.
So why do I think it’s worth sticking your apron on and getting dirty in the kitchen?
It's incredible to see how fast my kids have learned and grown in confidence. Here are a few fun ways to get started with your own family.
When I’m feeling stressed in the kitchen I often remind myself of this question: “If I don’t teach my kids how to cook, who will?”. It really is one of the kindest and most loving things we can do for our children because a child who loves healthy food is setting themselves up for a healthy and happy future.
I hope you feel inspired to get in the kitchen with your little ones.
Much love,
Joe x