Under the guidance of alert adults, young children can develop new understandings, learn valuable skills, and acquire positive attitudes toward life and learning by taking part in activities in the kitchen. This book provides ideas that parents and parent surrogates can use to provide experiences in the kitchen that will contribute to children's intellectual growth. The activities discussed are varied and offer a range of opportunities for child involvement. Several categories of activities are included. Exploring activities are those that allow children to freely examine materials. Cooking experiences allow children to handle food and assist in the preparation of foods. Chores activities offer experiences which lead to the formation of good work habits and responsible behaviors. Play activities encourage children to express themselves freely and creatively. A section on talking and storytelling provides suggestions for promoting open communication, language development, use of symbolism, and growth in imagination. (21 references) (BB)