It’s a fine balance when it comes to kids between using real tools and making sure things are the right size and developmental level.
I’m a strong proponent of giving kids real tools, because I don’t want them to feel like they are being talked down to, nor do I want them to learn improper techniques because they’re compensating for some child-friendly feature.
On the other hand, we do want to keep our kids safe and make sure they feel comfortable and competent in the kitchen, so the tools need to fit their hands.
With both of those in mind, over the years we’ve chosen some authentic but kid-friendly cooking tools that we definitely recommend you stock (or similar) in your home.
There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing a child’s face when they make a dish all by themselves, and nothing more frustrating than when they feel stuck in the process because they are unable to use a tool. My goal is that these tools will allow your kitchen to run smoothly for both kids and adults without extra clutter.
You can watch the video to see the tools in action and hear my honest thoughts about each one, read the skim notes for a summary, and hit the links to purchase (or of course find them at small local shops, best option in my opinion!).
If you’re looking for some more options, here are all the tools used in our classes.
Can’t see the video? Watch our favorite kitchen tools for kids here on YouTube!
No time for the video? Here are the notes!
Our Favorite Cooking Tools for Kids
- 0:30: One of my favorite cooking tools for preschoolers is crinkle cutters! We like the ones where the handle is on top of the blade so they’re pushing straight down.
- 1:23: We use a Y-shaped peeler. I think they’re just easier for little hands to get the hang of and they’re my personal favorite for peeling fruits and vegetables as well.
Do you forget everything immediately? (My hand is raised …)
That’s why we created the one-page summaries of each podcast episode, in a simple Google Doc so there’s nothing to download.
Print them off and make yourself an actual handbook or just view online and search for what you want!
- 2:34:We prefer to use stainless steel measuring cups and spoons. I love these measuring cups because they have colorful handles to help with identification, and I love the spoons because they’re long and narrow so they fit into spice jars! The exact set I have is no longer available, but here is a set of colorful measuring cups, narrow measuring spoons, and a combined set that has tons of measurement options.
- 4:35: Our tiny tongs that fit perfectly in little hands are actually from our local dollar store, but here is a similar option online. Using tongs is excellent for preschoolers developing fine motor skills.
Our Favorite Knives for Kids
- 6:17: Get all the details on our favorite knives in this post. Here’s the knife set with the jar that I showed. Victorinox knives are my kids’ favorites and I love my 6″ Wusthof.
- 8:24: I’m not a fan of using safety knives like plastic lettuce knives for little kids to cut everything, but they do have a place! A lettuce knife is great for kids to use to cut lettuce!
- 9:21: If you’re using knives then you’ll need a cutting board as well! My favorite material is bamboo or wood (don’t put these in the dishwasher!), but small plastic ones with grippy edges are great for kids who are learning. Our KCRF cutting board I’m holding in the video is no longer available. 🙁
- 10:54: One word to look out for is “antibacterial” on cutting boards! I don’t want any antibacterial chemicals on my cutting boards so here are some options that check all my boxes.
Kids Love Having Their Own Cooking Tools!
- 11:36: It’s fun for kids to have their own tools! My kids love these colorful silicone whisks they got in their stockings one year.
- 12:27: If you’re interested in trying out spiralizing, this mini spiralizer is fun for kids. It works best with something soft like zucchini.
- 13:24: We have a silicone muffin mold and some individual little muffin cups that we like to use in school lunches to separate items.
- 14:35: If you use cast iron you need a metal spatula. Other than my Wusthof knife, this is my most used tool in the kitchen!
I believe in super practical Christmas gifts and this list is full of even more great ideas for your little chef! Hope this helps you get those kids in the kitchen and motivated to help!
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