Getting children involved with cooking supports their development in many ways. But changes in culture, family structure, and food costs have led to changes in cooking at home. With fewer chances to learn and practice cooking, there are concerns that cooking skills will be lost in younger generations. Older adults have an increasing presence in the lives of children. In Kentucky, approximately 58,000 children live with their grandparents. The increased presence of older adults makes them a valuable resource for teaching cooking skills to younger generations.  

In recognizing the opportunity for children and older adults to mutually benefit from shared cooking experiences, Dr. Courtney Luecking, Extension Specialist for Nutrition and Health worked with Cathy Fellows, 4-H Youth Development Agent in Boone County, on her capstone project for her master’s program to create Inspiring Children to Become Grand Cooks. This standalone program developed for Kentucky Extension Homemaker Association Leader Lessons is a direct way to reach an engaged group of volunteers across the state, many of whom are older adults. The program highlights the important role older adults play in helping children learn how to cook, whether they are a seasoned chef or just getting started. Activities include discussion about memorable cooking experiences with a special older adult, opportunities to refresh on age-appropriate kitchen tasks for children of all ages, creating a plan for working with children in the kitchen, and the option for a hands-on, food-related activity.  

In spring 2024, the program was piloted by five Family & Consumer Sciences agents who provided valuable feedback about messaging and activities. The revised lesson debuted at the 2024 Kentucky Extension Homemaker Association State Meeting in Bowling Green. The lively session included food and fellowship with 33 female, older adults. Participants left with a recipe for mostly fun and a little mess with special young ones. Of the 27 people who completed surveys after the session, all reported the ability to list at least two benefits of older adults and children cooking together. Also, all attendees reported the ability to explain developmentally appropriate ways to involve children in the kitchen, and all can create a plan for working with children in the kitchen. As a result of this program, 96% said they intend to share their cooking skills with one or more children at least once, and 93% will plan ongoing opportunities to cook with children.??? 

The program is available for statewide use in July 2024. It can be implemented with older adults or used to facilitate a shared cooking experience between older and younger generations. This lesson can open the door for Family & Consumer Sciences agents to offer other programs that bring multiple generations together through cooking, providing benefits for all who participate.