Teens and Cooking Responsibilities: An Older Generation's Perspective
As a seasoned mother, I have observed that teen children, like those who are 16, often have a variety of household responsibilities including cooking. But recently, a situation arose in one of my friend's households that sparked a discussion. While the mom was responsible for the laundry and cooking, she began to feel that her children were expecting her to continue with these tasks on their behalf, which led to feelings of resentment.
The Current Household Situation
My friend, a mother of two teenagers, explained that from a young age, her kids took turns being 'Cook’s Assistants,' with her and her husband taking turns as the 'Head Cook.' By the time they were 13, the children had improved their cooking skills to the extent that each household member only needed to cook one night in four. My friend's daughter, though not enthusiastic about cooking, supplements her husband's cooking, making him the primary cook.
My friend and her husband, not particularly fond of cooking, lean towards cooking together or trading off. This division of responsibility has led to a system where each person has a role to play, and they take turns to ensure the household runs smoothly. As an older generation, we often emphasize the importance of early exposure to various responsibilities, including cooking, as it prepares young people for their future lives.
Why Should Teens Take a Turn in Cooking?
At 16 years old, with high school on the horizon, this age is a natural time to start shouldering more responsibility within the household. Teaching teens to cook is not only beneficial for their future but also fosters a sense of duty and maturity. Learning to cook at a young age can result in a well-rounded individual who is capable of managing various aspects of life upon reaching adulthood. It also promotes a sense of teamwork and shared responsibility.
Encouraging Teen Participation
It is important to encourage teens to take an active role in cooking. Instead of relying solely on a parent to handle all the cooking, teens should be given the opportunity to assist. Cooking involves a range of skills, from following a recipe to managing kitchen tools and safety. By providing teens with the necessary resources and guidance, such as cookbooks from thrift stores, access to online tutorials on platforms like Pinterest and YouTube, and experimenting with different recipes, we can help them develop these valuable skills.
Conclusion
Here, my opinion might differ from others. Raised in a different era, I deeply value the role of mothers in the household, especially in the kitchen. I believe that if a mom is able to, she should continue doing the cooking, providing her family with home-cooked meals and a sense of comfort. However, if circumstances make it difficult for a mom to cook, it is the responsibility of the other household members, particularly teenagers, to step up and share the burden. Cooking is not only a practical skill but also a fun and rewarding activity that can teach valuable life lessons.