Kids in the Kitchen invite schools to visit for field trips

In Midlothian, one mother of young children is trying to make a difference. A 20-year career in the food industry propelled Laurie Van Cleve to follow her passion and belief that cooking is a valuable life skill and one that could be learned at a young age. In addition, as a consultant for The Pampered Chef, she has shown hundreds of moms, dads, children, as well as singles, the rewards of cooking in their own homes. A special invitation by the After School Enrichment Program at her children’s school encouraged her to create Kids in the Kitchen, LLC.

Leasing a large space in The Village at Waterford, Van Cleve designed two colorful kitchens, both of which are ADA compliant and serve those with special needs. Simple, healthy recipes teach math, chemistry, reading, teamwork, and patience, while fine tuning motor skills. Kids in the Kitchen offers cooking classes for ages 3 and up; birthday parties; after-school programs; winter, spring and summer camps, as well as hosting holiday gatherings, book clubs, Scouts and Mothers of Pre-Schoolers (MOPs). The spacious facility can accommodate all special event themes for children and adults. Schools are invited to schedule field trips to Kids in the Kitchen for a unique educational experience. Summer camp was a huge success, as parents realized the importance of their children learning the basics of food budgeting, shopping, preparation, and cooking. Of course, the final stage, eating, is the most popular!

Since starting Kids in the Kitchen, Van Cleve has recognized the need for an organization whose mission statement is to educate children and teens about healthy eating and food preparation, no matter what their economic background. Her Children’s Cooking and Healthy Eating Foundation (cCHEF) has a goal of reducing childhood obesity and teaching the life-skills children need to lead healthy productive lives. cCHEF is presently seeking 501 c3 status and invites concerned individuals to join in the effort.

For more information, go to www.kidsinthekitchenva.com