How to Encourage Teens to Cook

If you have a teenager, you know that feeding them can be a lot of work. From finicky eaters to late-night snackers, teens can be a difficult bunch to keep satisfied. One way to simplify the task is to invite them into the kitchen and encourage them to cook for themselves and the rest of the family. This will not only lighten your kitchen workload, but it can strengthen your relationship and equip your teen with important life skills.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Take a deep breath. There may be messes, noise and confusion. If you want your teen to cook, it is best to relax and just let the chaos flow through the kitchen.
2. Allow your teens to help plan the menu. You might end up trying some unusual dishes, but they are more likely to help cook the meals that they have planned.
3. Bring them shopping. Let your teens accompany you to the grocery store to choose the ingredients for their menus. This will also give them an opportunity to learn about budgeting and smart shopping.
4. Invite their friends into the kitchen. Teens, especially girls, are often more inclined to participate in things when their friends are involved. Bringing their friends into the fold will make it more fun for them.
5. Make a cookbook. Encourage your teen to write and illustrate cookbooks full of their new favorite recipes. Take a few pictures of them cooking with their friends to tuck into the pages.