“Mom, can we use these bananas to make Peanut Butter Oat Bites so I have something to eat before school?” asked my high school age daughter recently.
We have cooked together in the kitchen since my kids were little. I was excited that she saw the bananas on the counter that needed attention and was thinking ahead to have a breakfast food she enjoyed ready to eat. As we cooked the Peanut Butter Oat Bites my daughter asked for tips on using specific equipment, placement of the sheet pan in the oven and how to tell when the bites were done.
For the last decade, I have been parallel cooking alongside my teenage children. One of my goals has been to help them grow independence in the kitchen. We often hear the term parallel play when talking about how young children play side by side, but not directly interacting. Parallel cooking with a teen provides the opportunity for teenagers to build confidence and independence in food preparation, working alongside a more experienced cook who can interact and encourage as they prepare a dish.
I find cooking with my children to be a productive way to spend quality time together. It is rewarding to see them grow in confidence and skill, from working side by side to safely dice (and eat!) a red pepper for a taco meal to preparing the taco meal independently. Try the recipe for taco seasoning the next time tacos are on the menu.
As supportive adults, we often focus on getting meals on the table, but the kitchen can also be a place for learning and connection. Parallel cooking gives teens the chance to practice valuable life skills in a supportive environment while creating opportunities for meaningful conversation and time together. One day, the goal is for them to confidently prepare meals on their own, but along the way, the memories and confidence built side by side in the kitchen may be just as important as the recipes themselves.
This article was written by Karla Doty.
Karla Doty is a nutrition educator who is passionate about helping individuals and families make healthy lifestyle choices. She has spent years cooking alongside her children and encouraging their independence in the kitchen. She enjoys gardening, trying new recipes, and sharing practical nutrition tips.
