Handstand Kids: Italian Cookbook for Kids

A cookbook for kids is always a great idea. Handstand Kids just released an Italian Cookbook for kids that comes with a cute kid-sized chef's hat. The cookbook is described on the Handstandkids.com website as, "Handstand Kids books are the perfect recipe for kids to learn how to cook, while discovering the people, places, and language of a new country. The first Handstand Kids book journeys to Italy to make delicious and nutritious Italian recipes." My friend and her two kids, aged 6 1/2 and 4, tested it out. They liked the recipes and made a few that came out delicious. But, the Italian terms in the recipe directions were a little too complicated for them. They had to keep looking them up to remember what they meant - when you are trying to cook something, time matters! I would have kept putting the terms with the english translation right next to it, just to help fix that. This cookbook is probably better for kids age 10 and up. As a educator and former Food Network staffer (1994-1999), I loved that the cookbook was written for kids. Cooking is a wonderful way to teach literacy, math and science. It promotes helpfulness and listening skills, as well as being a great way to bond with your kids. Or encourage that budding chef! The next book from this company will be a Mexican Cookbook, which will be released in Spring 2008. Sounds yummy to me!