According to the American Heart Association, teaching youth how to prepare their own food will give them a skill they can use for a lifetime, they will be more likely to eat healthier as adults, and build self-confidence (Cooking With Your Children; Web MD; May 30, 2008.)  In an effort to address these issues locally,  Hancock County 4-H partnered with the Youth Service Center and offered an afterschool 4-H Culinary Arts Club. There were 11 middle school youth with 6 male members. Our middle school has more than 50% of students qualifying for free and reduced lunches. The club meetings taught different kitchen safety and cooking techniques along with nutrition lessons for the accompanying foods.

At the conclusion of the club meetings and lessons, a written survey was completed. The following information was revealed:

*all of the youth were able to read, interpret, and follow the recipes

*all of the youth demonstrated use of a variety of measuring tools, matching the proper measuring tools to the variety of ingredients

*100% understand the need for food safety practices such as sanitation and hand washing. They employed food safety practices throughout the program

*100% practiced proper knife use and safety

*90% gained self-confidence in the kitchen

*80% have cooked for their family since joining the 4-H Club.