Prepare preschool chefs-in-training with a dry run of the basics of working in the kitchen well before you embark on the first cooking activity with your class.Take a group of preschoolers into the kitchen to show them the various elements of the food preparation area. Teach them safety rules about hot surfaces and sharp objects. Explain the importance of cleanliness. Establish rules for proper and safe behavior in the kitchen.
Take care of all of the pre-cooking preparations before the children enter the kitchen on the day you plan the cooking activity. Chop vegetables and fruits or mix up dough and separate it into child size portions. Place assorted toppings for pizzas or cupcake decorations in individual bowls. Double check that all the utensils, pans and dishes you will need are ready for use.
Supervise thorough hand washing before you and the children enter the kitchen for the cooking activity.
Line up or seat your preschoolers in an area of the kitchen that is roomy enough that they have elbow room to work to assemble their food. Explain in simple terms what they will make and tell them the steps to put the food together. Demonstrate the process.
Give the children the go ahead to begin their cooking activity. Remind them of the order of the steps you taught them to make the food. Assist those who are having trouble. Keep an open mind about the finished product--chances are it will not look like the one you made to demonstrate.