The newest generation of kids born between the early 1990s and now are known as Generation Z, or the “Net Generation”. This is no surprise; kids these days have been born into a world where the internet and other technologies have already existed for some time and they become savvy from the time they are toddlers. It's no wonder that video games are and continue to grow as the biggest entertainment medium.. Because of this, games are being used as teaching tools as well and cooking games have become major hits. Not only are kids playing these games but they are being encouraged to get into their actual kitchens as well and have inspired cooking with children.
Cooking Mama was the first big hit that appeared on the Nintendo DS, later spawning sequels that also crossed over onto the Wii. It has a series of mini games in creating dozens of recipes that usually only last several seconds. They player actually chops vegetables, slices meat, and otherwise is involved in the whole process. Though it's not nearly the same as actually doing these acts in the kitchen, it gave kids an idea of how cooking worked and what combinations of food could make which recipes.
Since then the idea has expanded into actual virtual recipe books, such as a DS game called What's Cooking? With Jamie Oliver. Adding celebrity chefs into the mix made the game appealing not only to kids and adults. This game actually has several recipes that are quick to prepare with shopping lists and instructions provided. Not only that, but players can actually simulate the process of cooking the meal before actually doing so in the kitchen. When it comes to cooking with children, gearing your child up for the experience is a great way to get them ready without them fearing any failure in preparing the dish. Games like these can make kids feel comfortable before they cook with you.
These games can be a great way to get kids from the television into the kitchen. Sites like PlayingKitchen.com can help in that transition, with easy recipes that kids can get the hang of quickly. And if the parents get involved in playing the games with them, then they can also have understanding of the kind of technology that keep their kids entertained. In the end, both parties bond over the things they love.
