FAQs

GETTING STARTED

What age groups are your classes designed for?

Kids Cooking Club welcomes young chefs of all skill levels. Our classes are geared toward elementary schoolers (ages 5-11). Younger kids will require more adult supervision and assistance (noted during the classes) and older kids will be able to work more independently. You know your child, and we encourage you to give them increased independence as they gain experience.


Do my children need any prior cooking experience?

Not at all! Our classes are designed to welcome complete beginners. We start with foundational kitchen skills—safe knife handling, measuring, mixing—and build from there. Experienced young cooks will also find plenty of creative challenges to keep them engaged.


What will my child learn in Kids Cooking Club?

Our curriculum goes way beyond recipes! Children develop:

Kitchen safety‍ ‍Knife skills‍ ‍Measuring & math
Nutrition basics‍ ‍Food science‍‍ ‍
Global cuisines‍ ‍Reading recipes‍ ‍Confidence & independence

Cooking covers nearly every subject—math, science, reading, cultural awareness, and problem-solving all show up naturally in the kitchen.


CLASSES & FORMAT

How are online classes structured?

“Chef” and “Inner Circle” members have access to weekly livestream classes led by Chef Mark, plus the library of recorded classes. “Explorer” members enjoy access to the library of recorded classes.

A ingredient shopping list, list of required cooking tools, and recipes are sent to families ahead of time so you can come prepared. During class, Chef Mark walks through each step and shares tips—your child cooks along in your own kitchen in real time.


How long is each session?

Classes are 45 minutes long. In recorded videos, students can pause or skip the video to accommodate the pace of their work.


Does an adult need to be present?

For ages 5-8, we require a parent or caregiver to participate as a "sous chef"—it's a wonderful bonding experience! For ages 8 and up, a supervising adult should be nearby (especially when ovens or stovetops are used), but doesn't need to be actively cooking alongside the child. We will always let you know where adult help is recommended.


SAFETY & ALLERGIES

Are the recipes kid-safe? How do you handle knives & heat?

Yes! All recipes and techniques are selected with age-appropriate safety in mind. Chef Mark walks through safety rules at the start of every session. We have a wonderful kid-sized knife that we recommend. Additionally, we recommend clear countertops and non-slip shoes and surfaces in the kitchen.


How do you handle food allergies and dietary preferences?

Food safety is our top priority. The incredible benefit of online classes done in your own kitchen is that your child can tailor each dish to their needs and preferences. Chef Mark makes recommendations on ingredient substitutions, and you can ask specific ingredient questions in the community. All classes are vegetarian, which removes the vast majority of food safety concerns.