NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day

This day is a great opportunity to bond with your children while they learn valuable life skills.

SEP13

Monday, September 13Every year on September 13

days to go

Roots: Founded in 2011 by the Young Chefs Academy
Vibe: A fun, creative approach to learning in the kitchen
Also on Sep 13: Bald Is Beautiful Day · Celiac Disease Awareness Day · Hug Your Hound Day
Hashtag: #NationalKidsTakeOverTheKitchenDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Let them lead

Hand kids the menu and help them cook dinner tonight.

WITH FRIENDS

Cook-off with kids

Gather families and let the kids run a mini cooking contest.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share recipes

Have students or coworkers share kid-approved recipes.

Plan ahead

National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is observed on September 13 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sun, Sep 13this year

2027Mon, Sep 13

2028Wed, Sep 13

2029Thu, Sep 13

2030Fri, Sep 13

2031Sat, Sep 13

2032Mon, Sep 13

2033Tue, Sep 13

2034Wed, Sep 13

2035Thu, Sep 13

2036Sat, Sep 13

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Fast facts

Studies show kids involved in cooking are more likely to try new foods

Cooking together brings families closer together

The story

National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is celebrated every year on September 13, inviting children to step into the kitchen and take charge of meal preparations. This day not only provides a platform for kids to showcase their culinary talents but also serves as an opportunity for families to bond. By engaging children in cooking, parents can teach them essential life skills and foster a lifelong appreciation for healthy eating.

Read the full story

Cooking is more than just preparing meals; it's an art form that encourages creativity and collaboration. On this day, parents are encouraged to step back and let their children explore the kitchen independently or with minimal guidance. Whether it’s baking cookies or whipping up a simple pasta dish, the experience allows kids to experiment with flavors and techniques. This hands-on approach nurtures confidence and decision-making skills.

One of the most rewarding aspects of National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is witnessing the joy of children as they create something delicious. When kids see their family enjoying the meals they’ve prepared, it boosts their self-esteem and encourages them to take pride in their efforts. Parents can support this creativity by providing a variety of ingredients and letting kids choose how to combine them, this is where the magic of cooking happens. The kitchen becomes a canvas for young chefs to express themselves.

As September 13 approaches, families can prepare by gathering favorite recipes or exploring new ones together. Local community centers and libraries often host special cooking events to celebrate this day, making it a wonderful opportunity for children to interact with their peers while honing their kitchen skills. Ultimately, National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is about more than just cooking; it’s about creating lasting memories and instilling a sense of accomplishment in young chefs.

Did you know?

Cooking as a Life Skill

Learning to cook at a young age helps children develop independence and self-reliance.

Family Bonding

Cooking together enhances family communication and strengthens relationships.

Culinary Competitions

Many communities host cooking competitions for kids, celebrating their culinary creations.

Cultural Exchange

Cooking allows kids to explore different cultures through food, promoting diversity and acceptance.

Educational Benefits

Cooking engages multiple senses, making it an effective learning tool for children.

Healthy Eating Habits

Involvement in cooking has been linked to healthier eating habits in children.

Creative Expression

The kitchen provides a space for children to express their creativity and experiment with flavors.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesNational Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day is widely celebrated across the country, reflecting American family values.
GBUnited KingdomSimilar initiatives encourage kids to learn cooking skills, promoting creativity and family interaction.
CACanadaIn Canada, families also engage children in cooking, emphasizing healthy eating from a young age.
AUAustraliaAustralians celebrate kids in the kitchen, with cooking classes often aimed at youth empowerment.
INIndiaIn India, cooking is often a family affair, with children learning traditional recipes from parents and grandparents.
DEGermanyIn Germany, initiatives to teach children cooking skills are gaining popularity, emphasizing nutrition and sustainability.