Knife Skills with Edible School Yard

There’s something about dipping temperatures that have me excited to get back into the kitchen to cook! I think it’s a combination of the radiant heat from my oven and the promise of comforting and satisfying treats. Plus, the lure of outdoor adventures are somewhat dampened, so I might as well find solace in trying out new recipes and staying busy indoors.

The Edible School Yard Project has a ton of great lessons published on their website that are perfect for distance learning or in person cooking and gardening education. I love their lessons on teaching knife skills to kids. Knives are sharp, of course, but teaching someone to use them sooner rather than later is setting them up for a lifetime of kitchen mastery! Your mileage may vary, but the Edible School Yard Project introductory lesson on knife skills is aimed at grades 6-12. As long as you’re available to closely supervise, I would say even a late-elementary age child could benefit from this knife safety intro.

Imagine the possibilities of an extra sous chef in the kitchen to help with all the slicing and dicing! Plus, studies show that kids who are involved in the growing and preparation of foods are more likely to try them. Expanded palates, for the win!

The lesson that I’m sharing here is actually mostly hands-off. There’s a short video to watch that goes over how to hold the knife and what you’re cutting. The lessons include worksheets that can either act as discussion guides or as independent activities for kids to fill out. Once you’re comfortable with the basics of knife safety, Edible School Yard Project has more lessons that dive into specific knife cuts. From slicing and mincing to julienne and chiffonade, your might even learn something!

Check out more lessons and resources from Edible School Yard Project at https://edibleschoolyard.org/resource-search