Have some fun …

… with the kids and get them hooked on cooking!

Whether you're a parent or grandparent you can't avoid the fact that it's that time again – aargh – the school holidays. It may be that as a parent you are taking time off, shortening your working days or are fortunate enough to have parents to call upon to help with care.

If you are responsible for child care then I take it that under normal circumstances – budget permitting, you may send the children to a holiday club or something similar. If not this route then may be a day out here and there.

Whatever the circumstances, how about getting the kids hooked on cooking. I'm not talking Michelin Stars here but we all have to start somewhere and, if you get them interested now, think how much money they'll save when they go off to University – or wherever life may take them – if they can cook for themselves.

Picture yourself perched on a kitchen stool supervising (with your coffee or tea) - not only are the kids learning, they are preparing their own lunch and yours too - which they'll take great pride in serving – believe me when I tell you this!

Depending on the ages of the children then obviously the amount of supervision required varies.

This summer – even if it's only a couple of days a week – why not let the kids make their own lunch and supper too, each with a dessert and on different days to avoid boredom - who knows – it just might catch on.

So be prepared to let them get down and messy.

Sit back and watch the fun and think of the money you'll save too!