Tips for Handling Kids at a Cooking Show

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores various experiences and strategies shared by participants regarding handling children at cooking shows. Participants discuss the challenges and dynamics that arise when children are present during these events.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses frustration with children distracting from the cooking show experience, noting concerns about offending parents when addressing children's behavior.
  • Another participant shares their approach of encouraging hosts to discourage bringing young children, emphasizing guest enjoyment and safety during the show.
  • Several users mention including children in the cooking process as a way to keep them engaged and reduce distractions, with one participant noting a positive outcome from treating a child like an adult.
  • One participant describes a successful experience where they involved children in the setup, leading to excitement and engagement from both the kids and their parents.
  • Another participant suggests creative activities for children, such as decorating cookies or engaging in art projects, to keep them occupied during the show.
  • Some participants recount challenges faced when numerous young children were present, highlighting difficulties in maintaining focus and managing noise levels.
  • One participant humorously suggests extreme measures for managing children, while also noting the importance of safety and supervision during cooking demonstrations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best approach to managing children at cooking shows, with some participants advocating for inclusion and engagement, while others emphasize the need for limits and safety precautions. No clear consensus emerges on a single effective strategy.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences from various cooking shows, reflecting on the challenges and successes of managing children in different settings and circumstances.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling children during cooking demonstrations may find the shared experiences and strategies helpful in navigating similar situations.

I love the thank you note idea and bringing coloring pages with :-)
 
I agree, I put the kids to work. If I have a 3 yo reaching up to the counter, I hand them a bamboo spoon and a plastic measuring cup to play with. If they are a little older 5-10 yo range, I get them involved, and agree, I feel like it helps their mom's sales, of course that isn't why I do it, just a perk. I had one a couple of weeks ago and the hostess' 3 kids were there. I think her hubby was supposed to take them, but then bailed on her at the last minute.
Elicit their help if you can. Give them a twixit clip or something small as a thank you. They're so excited to get to keep something, and if they are happy, mom is happy, and everything goes much smoother. If someone uses the excuse of not helping b/c of their baby, I go grab that baby and get my baby fix, and let mom get involved. I am a homeschooling mom of 3, so I am used to kids being around all of the time and just having to make the best of it.
You could make yourself crazy focusing on it only being for adults, but it wouldn't do any good. Mom's first priority is her family, not your PC party. Thank her for coming, make her feel special and call her for her order or to book if she has to leave b/c her LO is crying b/c it is past their bedtime.
 
My daughter is 13, I pay her $50 a month to help me with my business. That includes stamping catalogs, making host packets, attending fairs with me AND..... coming to shows to entertain kids while I am working. host love it and she is making contacts for babysitting jobs. The $50 is deductible off your taxes as long as it is under $600 so you have to officially give $49 one month and for my daughter I love watching her at fairs as she talks about the products to adults. It is a good skill for her and gives us time to be together and I am not just handing her money, she is earning it. (she doesn't spend it as easily as when I just give it to her.)
 
Originally Posted by PamperedchefDaly
The new Tie-its do a great job of restraining small children to the kitchen chair.

(Just kidding )


Thanks for the laugh. I needed it today!
 
Be proactive. Bring coloring books or a coloring picture of a chef and hold a coloring contest - tell them the best one you pick gets to have dessert first.
 
I love the coloring contest idea.. going to be using that one!
 
scottcooks said:
Be proactive. Bring coloring books or a coloring picture of a chef and hold a coloring contest - tell them the best one you pick gets to have dessert first.

Great idea!
 
lkhartmann said:
My daughter is 13, I pay her $50 a month to help me with my business. That includes stamping catalogs, making host packets, attending fairs with me AND..... coming to shows to entertain kids while I am working. host love it and she is making contacts for babysitting jobs. The $50 is deductible off your taxes as long as it is under $600 so you have to officially give $49 one month and for my daughter I love watching her at fairs as she talks about the products to adults. It is a good skill for her and gives us time to be together and I am not just handing her money, she is earning it. (she doesn't spend it as easily as when I just give it to her.)

I love this idea. I'm going to see if my soon to be 15 year old daughter would be interested. I really like the idea of having someone coming with me and helping out.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective strategies for keeping kids engaged during a cooking show?

To keep kids engaged, incorporate interactive elements such as hands-on activities where they can help with simple tasks like mixing ingredients or decorating dishes. Use fun and colorful visuals, and share interesting facts about the ingredients or cooking techniques. Additionally, consider incorporating games or challenges related to the cooking process to maintain their interest.

How can I ensure the safety of children during a cooking show?

Safety is paramount when children are involved. Always supervise them closely, especially around sharp objects and hot surfaces. Use kid-friendly tools and equipment, and clearly explain safety rules before starting. Designate a safe area for children to participate while keeping hazardous items out of reach.

What types of recipes are best suited for cooking shows with kids?

Choose simple, no-cook, or low-cook recipes that allow for easy participation. Recipes like fruit skewers, mini pizzas, or no-bake desserts are great options. These recipes are not only fun but also allow kids to express their creativity without the complexities of advanced cooking techniques.

How can I involve kids in the cooking process without overwhelming them?

Break down the cooking process into manageable steps and assign age-appropriate tasks. For younger children, focus on simple tasks like pouring or stirring, while older kids can handle more complex activities like measuring or chopping with supervision. Keep instructions clear and concise to avoid confusion and frustration.

What should I do if a child becomes restless or distracted during the show?

If a child becomes restless, have a few backup activities ready, such as coloring sheets related to cooking or a quick cooking-related game. You can also take short breaks to allow them to stretch or move around. Engaging them with questions or inviting them to share their thoughts can help refocus their attention on the cooking show.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

  • texasteacher
  • Products and Tips
Replies
2
Views
2K
gailz2
Replies
5
Views
3K
Jasmine
  • lilscrapmama
  • Products and Tips
Replies
10
Views
2K
Chef Diane
Replies
16
Views
3K
beepampered
  • KayteTUrner
  • Pampered Chef Shows
Replies
6
Views
2K
KayteTUrner
  • OhmyDLM
  • Recruiting and Team Leaders
Replies
2
Views
1K
Admin Greg
  • jenniferlynne
  • Products and Tips
Replies
13
Views
4K
gilliandanielle
  • laylaleigh
  • Products and Tips
Replies
7
Views
2K
rlombas
  • mommylove_07
  • Products and Tips
Replies
15
Views
2K
chefann
Replies
2
Views
1K
NooraK
Back
Top