The happiest meals are made at home—and that doesn't always mean by an adult.
These days, more and more young cooks are helping out in the kitchen.
Having the right equipment can help young chefs get off on the right foot and make them more confident in the kitchen.
With the help of young testers, we found some kid-size kitchen essentials. Here's the equipment we recommend.
• Perfectly sized for smaller hands • Has a sharp blade that doesn't bounce off food • Has a comfortable, grippy handle that made kids feel safe and in control
Victorinox Swiss Army Fibrox Pro 6" Chef's Knife
The Best Chef's Knife for Older Kids
why
• Has a small, round finger hole encourages kids to hold it safely and securely • Comes with a plastic finger guard • Knife's rounded tip protects kids from accidental nicks
Opinel Le Petit Chef Cutlery Set (2 Pieces)
The Best Chef's Knife for Younger Kids
why
• Comfortable handles and shorter length help kids control the pin • Slightly heavier weight makes rolling a breeze • Steel ball bearings make for smooth rolling
Mrs. Anderson's Baking Beechwood Rolling Pin
The Best Rolling Pin for Kids
why
• Has a sharp blade that peels produce with ease • Handle is easy and comfortable to hold
Kuhn Rikon Original Swiss Peeler
The Best Peeler for Older Kids
why
• Performs well on potatoes and carrots • Its small wooden handle is perfect for small hands • Additional finger ring helps kids get a better grip
Opinel Le Petit Chef Peeler
The Best Peeler for Younger Kids
why
• Mitts are comfortable and maneuverable • Mitts stay cool for more than 30 seconds holding a 350-degree baking sheet • Also safe for moderately hot tasks such as putting cookie sheets into the oven
Curious Chef Child Chef Mitt Set
The Best Oven Mitts for Kids
why
Looking for more kid-friendly kitchen equipment?
See our guide for the best (and safest) cooking items for kids, from prep tools to cookware.