Kids in the Kitchen

Sarah Price, Kayla Holloway, Taylor Criss, Christina Macinnes, Meredith Graham, Elizabeth Anderson, Deeana Drumm, Rachel Henderson and Carlie McDaniel show off the pies they made at the Sweet Celebrations baking class for kids on May 15. The next kids’ baking class is July 31. You can sign up at the store, 1400 W. Broadway Ave.

Giving kids quality time and quality food can go hand-in-hand, says Debra Frazer Dean of Sweet Celebrations.

The bakery owner has been offering cooking classes to kids and encourages moms to try it at home.

“The idea is to entice your kids to try something new, even if that means they will be eating something healthy. And if they helped with the shopping, planning and creating, chances are greater that they will eat it.”

Dean said cooking also challenges kids’ reading comprehension and organizational skills. “Being able to contribute makes a child feel good about themselves,” she says, but adds that spending time with kids in the kitchen takes more than the right food ingredients.

“Turn those TVs and games off. Be patient. Have a good sense of humor, crank up some good music and bond with your kid.”

Dean began teaching baking classes to kids in May. She intends to offer the class each month to children ages 7 and up. Her next class is Sunday, July 31, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The fee is $35, and parents can sign up at Sweet Celebrations, 1400 W. Broadway Ave. in Maryville (space is limited). Students will receive a pastry wheel and take home a puff pastry appetizer and dessert just in time for Sunday supper.