‘Kids in Kitchen’ workshop serves up summer fun

BOLIVAR, Tenn. — The UT Extension Office in Hardeman County hosts a three-day workshop for kids to learn their way around the kitchen.

Now in its fourth year, organizers say this is the largest “Kids in the Kitchen” class they’ve ever had. And they say their students have been eager to learn.

Students tied on their decorated aprons Wednesday and got started with the basics of cooking.

“All of my favorite things are on my apron like zombies, skulls and video games,” said Wyatt Poole, a student in the workshop.

“Always wash your hands when you’re cooking so you don’t get germs,” Shelby Lax said.

They learn everything from kitchen hygiene to measuring as well as reading and actually making recipes.

“We got to see what a cup looks like and what two-thirds of a cup looks like,” said Lewis Lake, another student.

“The main goal is for them to walk away feeling more comfortable in the kitchen, feeling like they gained a new skill, feeling proud of themselves for learning new skills and just help them be well rounded,” said Katie Dees, the family and consumer science agent for Hardeman County.

Wednesday’s menu included homemade pizzas where they made the sauce from scratch and got to personally assemble their lunch.

“We poured some sauce in and then we put some garlic and some other seasonings and then we mixed it,” Anna Watkins said.

“We got to spread the dough out and put the sauce on. I had a lot of fun putting the cheese and pepperoni on,” Poole said.

Each day the class lasts four hours and every day has a different theme.

“Tomorrow, we’re going to do breakfast, a whole breakfast day and make all kinds of breakfast food items. Friday we’re doing a baking theme,” Dees said.

To find out if your county has a class available this summer, contact your local UT Extension Office.