ChefBeckyD
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- 20,320
Cooking With Kids: How Do You Make it a Successful Class?
- Thread starter ChefBeckyD
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
This thread explores various experiences and strategies related to conducting cooking classes for children. Participants share their insights on class structure, age ranges, pricing, and product distribution.
Discussion Character
- Anecdotal
- Opinion-based
- Exploratory
Main Points Raised
- One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions having 14 kids aged 6 to 14 in their summer class, charging $30 per child for four classes.
- Another participant shares their experience of conducting classes for Girl Scouts, where only food is provided and no products are given to the kids.
- Several users discuss the potential for parents to book shows as a result of the cooking classes, with one participant noting they gained new customers through these classes.
- One participant describes their approach to product distribution, mentioning they order items in bulk and encourage pre-payment for classes.
- Another participant expresses a desire for concrete examples of successful classes rather than general discussions found in past threads.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Views differ on the specifics of class structure, product distribution, and the impact of cooking classes on booking shows. No clear consensus emerges on the best practices for conducting these classes.
Contextual Notes
Participants share personal experiences and insights based on their individual classes, with varying approaches to age groups, pricing, and product offerings.
Who May Find This Useful
Consultants interested in running cooking classes for children may find the shared experiences and strategies relevant to their own efforts.
DebbieSAChef
- 2,144
SearchIf you go to the top section tited Search a box will drop down and if you type in Kid Cooking Class. There will be several past threads that will pop up that will probably answer all your questions.
Like this one:
http://www.chefsuccess.com/f6/kids-cooking-class-38446/
Debbie
Like this one:
http://www.chefsuccess.com/f6/kids-cooking-class-38446/
Debbie
ChefBeckyD
Gold Member
- 20,320
Actually, they didn't. I looked through some of those threads - but there was too much to read, and I couldn't find these answers...and I am doing up my brochure right now, and trying to decide on some of these things....Want to send the brochure out tomorrow.I read several that talked about what they were going to do - but I would rather know what has really been done successfully.DebbieSAChef said:If you go to the top section tited Search a box will drop down and if you type in Kid Cooking Class. There will be several past threads that will pop up that will probably answer all your questions.Like this one:
http://www.chefsuccess.com/f6/kids-cooking-class-38446/Debbie
DebbieSAChef
- 2,144
OkOk well here is what is working for me. This is how my summer classes are set up. Right now in my June class I have 14 kids signed up.
1. What ages have you specified for the kids? 6+ I homeschool so the ages vary greatly. The youngest kid in my class is 6 the oldest is 14.
2. How many kids have you had at one time? I have 14 right now, my max is 15.
3. How much have you charged for the class? What kind of products have you given to the kids? $30 each month per kid for four classes (every Thursday for 90 min.) This month I gave the kids a mini spatula (outlet) and small spreader. July they will get two prep bowls each only. August they will get the small batter bowl because we are going to make doll cakes and soccer cakes (from cake mixes).
Just to give you an idea the last recipe we did was called Pepperoni n cheese crescents. The total for all the food divided by 14 kids was $1.75 per kid in cost to make two of the crescents each. They loved them. Last recipe was Ice cream tacos cost per kid was about $1.00 or so. I can't remember the price of the M&M's off the top of my head but my hubby has it on a receipt.
Hope this helps!
Debbie
1. What ages have you specified for the kids? 6+ I homeschool so the ages vary greatly. The youngest kid in my class is 6 the oldest is 14.
2. How many kids have you had at one time? I have 14 right now, my max is 15.
3. How much have you charged for the class? What kind of products have you given to the kids? $30 each month per kid for four classes (every Thursday for 90 min.) This month I gave the kids a mini spatula (outlet) and small spreader. July they will get two prep bowls each only. August they will get the small batter bowl because we are going to make doll cakes and soccer cakes (from cake mixes).
Just to give you an idea the last recipe we did was called Pepperoni n cheese crescents. The total for all the food divided by 14 kids was $1.75 per kid in cost to make two of the crescents each. They loved them. Last recipe was Ice cream tacos cost per kid was about $1.00 or so. I can't remember the price of the M&M's off the top of my head but my hubby has it on a receipt.
Hope this helps!
Debbie
Last edited:
pampchefsarah
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- 2,188
Chef Bobby
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- 1,045
ChefBeckyD
Gold Member
- 20,320
DebbieSAChef
- 2,144
Yes!!
Oh yes of course! A few and loyal PC customers. I am their PC lady. So of course I got orders at Christmas time, from their mothers, from their friends, etc...
I think it's a great way to get new customers because not all the kids in my class are people I knew personally before the class. I left flyers at a kid's resale shop and I got a call from several mothers wanting to sign up in July and August. So it's a great way to get your name out there. The kids love the class, they love me and my kiddos, and they love the cool tools! Boys eyes light up when they use the food chopper and the EAD! :love:
Debbie
ChefBeckyD said:HEY! That was my next question!
Oh yes of course! A few and loyal PC customers. I am their PC lady. So of course I got orders at Christmas time, from their mothers, from their friends, etc...
I think it's a great way to get new customers because not all the kids in my class are people I knew personally before the class. I left flyers at a kid's resale shop and I got a call from several mothers wanting to sign up in July and August. So it's a great way to get your name out there. The kids love the class, they love me and my kiddos, and they love the cool tools! Boys eyes light up when they use the food chopper and the EAD! :love:
Debbie
ChefBeckyD
Gold Member
- 20,320
DebbieSAChef
- 2,144
Pre-pay
I have them pre-pay by a certain deadline to allow at least 10 days for the items to ship. Although I had some last minute tag alongs (cousins, friends, etc..) who joined the day of my first class since I was not officially full yet and that was ok. I always order a few extra just in case.
I make a show out of it. I usually have customer orders I can tag on and since the moms know me as the PC lady I can encourage them to give me some orders before the deadline. When they do they are entered in the Mystery Host raffle. The winner gets the benefits! It's my second time doing this and I usually submit at least a $300-$400 show. $40-$60 in FREE products is a good motivator for collecting orders! Especially to frugal homeschooling moms!
And it's a cooking show because I usually bring a PC dish to a mom's get together or a park day to advertise about my kid's class, the Mystery Host raffle and I show catalogs.
Debbie
ChefBeckyD said:
I have them pre-pay by a certain deadline to allow at least 10 days for the items to ship. Although I had some last minute tag alongs (cousins, friends, etc..) who joined the day of my first class since I was not officially full yet and that was ok. I always order a few extra just in case.
I make a show out of it. I usually have customer orders I can tag on and since the moms know me as the PC lady I can encourage them to give me some orders before the deadline. When they do they are entered in the Mystery Host raffle. The winner gets the benefits! It's my second time doing this and I usually submit at least a $300-$400 show. $40-$60 in FREE products is a good motivator for collecting orders! Especially to frugal homeschooling moms!
And it's a cooking show because I usually bring a PC dish to a mom's get together or a park day to advertise about my kid's class, the Mystery Host raffle and I show catalogs.
Debbie
Frequently Asked Questions
What age group is best for cooking classes with kids?
The best age group for cooking classes with kids typically ranges from 5 to 12 years old. Younger children may need more supervision and assistance, while older kids can handle more complex tasks. Tailoring the class to the specific age group ensures that the activities are engaging and age-appropriate.
How can I keep kids engaged during the cooking class?
To keep kids engaged, incorporate hands-on activities, interactive games, and fun challenges. Use colorful ingredients and allow them to participate in decision-making, such as choosing toppings or flavors. Short, varied tasks help maintain their interest and enthusiasm throughout the class.
What safety precautions should I take during cooking classes for kids?
Safety is paramount when cooking with kids. Ensure that all participants wash their hands before cooking, use child-safe utensils, and are supervised closely, especially around hot surfaces and sharp objects. Teach them about kitchen safety, including how to handle knives and hot items properly.
How do I choose recipes that are suitable for kids?
Select recipes that are simple, fun, and require minimal cooking time. Look for dishes that allow for customization, such as pizzas or tacos, where kids can choose their own toppings. Recipes that involve assembly rather than extensive cooking are also great options for keeping kids engaged.
What materials do I need for a successful cooking class with kids?
For a successful cooking class, you will need basic cooking utensils (like measuring cups, mixing bowls, and spatulas), ingredients for the recipes, aprons for the kids, and a safe cooking area. Additionally, having printed recipes and a checklist can help keep the class organized and ensure that everyone follows along smoothly.
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