New research has uncovered a significant gap between aspiration and reality in UK family kitchens, with half of all parents wishing they could cook with their children more frequently.
The Barriers to Family Cooking
A comprehensive poll of 1,000 parents with children aged 6-16 revealed that seven in 10 parents don't involve their children in cooking regularly. The study, commissioned by Ben's Original, identified several key obstacles preventing families from sharing this valuable activity.
Nearly half (47%) of respondents reported simply not having enough time to cook with their children, while 21% admitted they find the experience too stressful. A significant quarter of parents cited mess as their primary reason for reluctance, and 39% stated they would happily cook with their children more often if there were simply more hours in the day.
The research also highlighted a demand for more accessible recipes, with 26% of parents wishing there were easier, more child-friendly dishes to prepare together.
Building Confidence in the Kitchen
Parenting author Sarah Ockwell-Smith, who has partnered with the rice brand, emphasised the profound benefits of cooking as a family activity. "Cooking together could be the secret ingredient to happier family mealtimes", she explained, noting that it brings families closer while boosting wellbeing.
Ockwell-Smith stressed that kitchen activities provide more than just practical skills. "When children feel trusted in the kitchen, they gain confidence and their self-esteem skyrockets", she said. The expert reassured parents that elaborate preparations aren't necessary, suggesting simple meals like fajitas and rice as perfect starting points.
The research provided fascinating insights into children's culinary development, finding that the average child first shows interest in cooking at age seven and learns to boil an egg by eight.
Community Initiatives and Celebrity Support
To demonstrate how accessible cooking with children can be, singer and television personality Rachel Stevens recently participated in a 'Pudsey Cooking Challenge' with young helpers. The event formed part of Ben's Original's partnership with BBC Children in Need, which includes a substantial £200,000 pledge to support children and young people across the UK.
Stevens, a mother of two, shared her enthusiasm for family cooking: "I absolutely love cooking with my children - it's one of the best ways to spend quality time together". She acknowledged that sessions can become messy or chaotic but emphasised that seeing children excited about trying new foods makes every moment worthwhile.
The research identified the most popular dishes parents want to cook with their children, with pizza leading at 41%, followed by pasta bakes (27%), rice dishes (22%), and curries (18%). Importantly, 78% of families who cook together reported being more likely to sit down and eat together, strengthening family bonds.
As part of their charitable initiative, Ben's Original has released limited edition 'Pudsey Packs' across seven of its microwave rice pouches, with proceeds supporting BBC Children in Need's vital work.
