I am the mother of two boys and I am hell bent on making gentlemen out of them.  I want them to be good partners one day, which means they need an education in the domestic arts, including cooking, and I'm starting them young.  At two and a half Wylie can now crack and beat eggs and he's learning how to use a knife.  He's been practicing with a peeler and pumpkin carving tools (ideas I borrowed from his preschool). I try to include them in the kitchen as much as possible so that they observe my techniques. Given the opportunity, they really love to cook and often surprise me with their ideas. I've also found that they become more adventurous with their eating when they help out. I try to be very mindful when they are in the kitchen. I always turn pan handles toward the stove, keep sharp knives out of reach, and encourage lots of hand washing (boys are icky), but I give them enough space to make a mess and have fun.