MT. ZION, Ill. — Cooking with children can be a little messy, but the experiences are worth it. When caregivers cook with children, math and reading skills strengthen, life skills are learned, and great memories are made. University of Illinois Extension in Macon County is partnering with the Mt. Zion District Library to offer families an opportunity to cook together at an in-person cooking class.
Back to School Family Cooking will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on August 15 at the Mt. Zion District Library, 115 W. Main St. in Mt. Zion.
Groups of families will prepare side dishes for slow cooker chicken tacos and then listen to a presentation on the importance of family meals while enjoying what they have prepared.
“Kids that are involved in cooking tend to eat more of their meals,” says Nutrition and Wellness Educator Caitlin Mellendorf. “This class is a fun, hands-on way to help kids develop their cooking skills and introduce them to new ingredients.”
The event is free and open to youth ages seven and up accompanied by an adult caregiver or parent. Please wear closed-toe shoes for safety precautions.
To register for Back to School Family Cooking, please call the library at 217-864-3622 or stop in to register by August 11. For more information or questions, please contact Caitlin Mellendorf at 217-877-6042.
University of Illinois provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact Caitlin at 217-877-6042. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time for meeting your access need.
SOURCE: Caitlin Mellendorf, Nutrition and Wellness Educator, University of Illinois Extension
WRITER: Maria Lightner, Marketing and Communications, University of Illinois Extension
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