Cooking with kids

The weather is getting cooler and it’s time for the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. What better occasion to encourage kids to get in the kitchen and do some cooking? The rewards are bountiful (never mind the mess!).

Here are some delightful stories that include recipes, as well as cookbooks that will inspire even the youngest budding chefs to get into the kitchen, have delicious, edible fun, and learn new skills!


A Sprinkle of Sadie by Lana Spasevski

Say hello to Sadie … a superstar baker with a big heart!

In these three sprinkle-filled stories (complete with recipes!) the unstoppable Sadie shows that any problem can be solved with generosity, kindness and, of course, a delicious baked treat. Includes delicious recipes for young readers.

Suitable for readers aged 6 and up.


Aven Green, Baking Machine by Dusti Bowling

Aven knows she’s an expert baker of cakes and cookies. Plus no one bakes quite like her. She cracks eggs with her feet and measures sugar and flour with her feet (plus measuring cups) since she was born without arms.

Now Aven has her eye on the prize: a beautiful blue ribbon for baking at the county fair.

Suitable for readers aged 6 and up.


It’s My Birthday by Helen Oxenbury

In this whimsical, cumulative birthday tale, a host of generous friends helps a small child assemble the ingredients for a delicious cake.

Full of fun and good cheer, Helen Oxenbury’s joyful picture book makes any day a celebration and features a recipe for a delicious cake.

Suitable as a read-aloud and baking book for ages 2 and up.


Annabel Karmel’s Fun, Fast and Easy by Annabel Karmel

This practical cookbook from leading children’s cookery author Annabel Karmel is filled with fun, tasty recipes that will help parents inspire young children with a love of cooking, food and healthy eating.

Recipes include child-friendly versions of food from around the world and cater to all dietary requirements, featuring swaps for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian and vegan versions.

Suitable for ages 7 and up.


Lunch at Pomegranate Street by Felicita Sala

In each apartment, someone is preparing a special dish to share with their neighbours. Mr Singh is making coconut dahl, while Maria mashes some avocados for her guacamole. Will everything be ready on time?

Written and magnificently illustrated by Felicita Sala, this glorious celebration of community is filled with recipes from all over the world and simple instructions perfect for young chefs.

Suitable for readers aged 6 and up or younger ages to cook together.


Basics to Brilliance Kids by Donna Hay

Featuring over 120 fantastic, fun-filled, simple, family-friendly recipes.

Basics to Brilliance Kids gives you and your kids endless ideas for birthday parties, picnics, school fairs and bake sales, family and celebration dinners, brilliant breakfasts, beach days, backyard movie nights and sleepovers.

Suitable to cook together for ages 5 and up.


Cover image for A Sprinkle of Sadie

A Sprinkle of Sadie

Lana Spasevski

In stock at 6 shops, ships in 3-4 daysIn stock at 6 shops