Don't make a meal of it
Most local children do not know how to cook since parents consider the kitchen off-limits, according to a survey by the Plaza Hollywood mall.
Up to 90 per cent of the 318 students polled from Primary One to Secondary Three reported that they could cook neither rice nor instant noodles. More than 80 per cent said they wanted to cook, but 71 per cent of 334 parents would not allow it.
Most parents think that the kitchen is too dangerous, while others say they or the helper do not need help preparing meals.
Head of the Institute of Family Education Tik Chi-yuen says neglecting children's culinary interests could affect parent-child relationships. The survey found that the 5 per cent of children who frequently cook with their parents have a better relationship.
'Parents need not be over-protective,' says Tik. 'Cooking [is] a good bonding activity. It trains the child to be independent and gives them more confidence.'
