How to Safely Use Kitchen Tools

Learn the basics of kitchen safety and how to handle common cooking tools with confidence and care. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Set up your station. Clear your counter space so you have plenty of room to move. Place your cutting board on a flat, stable surface. If the board slides, ask a grown-up to place a damp paper towel underneath it to keep it steady.
2. Master the 'claw' grip. When holding food to cut it, curl your fingers inward like a claw. This keeps your fingertips tucked safely away from the tool. Always keep your thumb tucked behind your fingers.
3. Practice with soft items. Start by practicing your grip with a soft item like a banana or a piece of playdough. Use your butter knife to make slow, controlled motions downward. Keep your eyes on the tool and the food at all times.
4. Clean up as you go. When you are done, place your tools in the sink or the dishwasher as directed by a grown-up. Wipe down your cutting board with warm, soapy water and dry it completely.