How to Become a Kitchen Helper

Learn how to safely and effectively help prepare meals in the kitchen with these simple, kid-friendly steps. HowTo: Family Edition: family how-tos that actually help.

1. Wash your hands thoroughly. Before touching any food, scrub your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds to keep everything clean.
2. Set up your workspace. Find a clear spot on the counter. If you are too short to reach comfortably, ask a grown-up to help you set up a sturdy step stool.
3. Start with simple tasks. Begin by helping with easy jobs like washing vegetables in a colander, tearing lettuce leaves for a salad, or measuring dry ingredients into a bowl.
4. Follow the recipe instructions. Listen closely to your grown-up's directions. If a recipe says to mix until smooth, try to focus on the rhythm of your stirring until the ingredients look just right.