Teaching teenagers the basics of meal prep and cooking is a valuable life skill that can set them up for a healthy and independent future. To make the learning process engaging and practical, consider incorporating the following strategies:

• Start with the Basics: Begin by teaching teenagers fundamental cooking techniques such as chopping, sautéing, boiling, and baking. These skills form the foundation for a wide variety of recipes.
• Focus on Nutritional Balance: Emphasize the importance of incorporating a variety of food groups into each meal. Teach them about the nutritional benefits of different ingredients and how to create balanced, wholesome meals.
• Introduce Meal Planning: Show teenagers how to plan a week's worth of meals, taking into account factors such as budget, time constraints, and nutritional needs. Encourage them to consider diverse cuisines and flavors to keep meals exciting.
• Hands-On Practice: Provide hands-on cooking sessions where teenagers can apply the skills they've learned. This could involve preparing simple recipes like pasta dishes, stir-fries, or salads.
• Encourage Creativity: Foster a sense of creativity by allowing teenagers to experiment with flavors and ingredients. This can help them develop confidence in the kitchen and make cooking an enjoyable experience.
• Teach Kitchen Safety: Stress the importance of kitchen safety practices, including proper knife handling, stove usage, and food storage. Understanding these principles will help teenagers feel more comfortable and competent in the kitchen.

References: eatright.org - Get Kids in the Kitchenhealthychildren.org - Cooking With Your Children