Kid Culture features fun and educational books and toys for kids.

What child does not want to hang out in the kitchen while Mom and Dad prepare great food, sniff delicious smells and, of course, enjoy the tasty end results? There are many cookbooks written expressly for children so that they may try their own hand at mixing, stirring and baking. The kitchen is a first-rate place for children to not only learn basic culinary skills but also a place to practice math, reading and science skills.

“Eat it Up: Lip-Smacking Recipes for Kids” By Elisabeth de Mariaffe

This book offers a fun approach to cooking with 55 tempting recipes.

Animal illustrations from ChickaDEE Magazine are sprinkled throughout the book adding an amusing flavor. The author begins with safety tips, a glossary of cooking terms and photo guide of kitchen equipment and gadgets.

Another smart addition is an allergy alert for each recipe that indicates whether it has tree nuts, dairy, wheat, etc. The recipes are divided into sections including Breakfast Goodies, Snack Attack, Dinner Meals, Party Time, Deserts and Kitchen Gifts.

It should be noted that the author is Canadian so the ingredient measurements are listed both in metric and standard. You can make that into a “teaching math moment.”

“Paula Deen’s Cookbook for the Lunch-Box Set” By Paula Deen

Written by Food Network star and chef, Deen offers a tantalizing variety of recipes, family activities and even a section on food to make for fundraisers.

Her book also includes cooking tips, an excellent glossary and a well-written explanation of how to measure. Each recipe has a pictorial list of what is needed; both equipment and ingredients. Some of the chapters focus on special occasions such as for a pool party, a sleepover, a family picnic and even Mother’s and Father’s days. A welcome chapter proposes a family cooking night where all the family members are included in the shopping, preparing and the eating.

Some interesting standout recipes include Stuffed Chilies, Three-Cheese Macaroni and Frittata Muffins. A personal favorite was the recipe for Chocolate-Covered Pretzels.