Getting Started Before you start, always check with an adult to make sure it’s a good time to use the kitchen. If you have long hair, pull it back to keep it out of your way. Always wash hands with soap and dry them before touching any food. Read the recipe all the way through before starting. Ask questions of an adult, if there is anything you don’t understand. Before you start, gather all the ingredients and kitchen tools (mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, cutting board, scraper) you need for the recipe. Measure all the ingredients carefully and double check before you dump them in. Read the recipe again at the end to be sure you haven’t left anything out. Finishing Up Clean up as you go. Put away ingredients, and place used tools in the sink. Wipe up spills when they happen. Don’t leave cleaning up to the end. Wash tools with warm soapy water. Leave them to drain, or dry them with a clean towel. Put everything away in its proper place. Wipe down counters and leave the kitchen neat and clean. 10 Ways to Play it Safe in the Kitchen Be sure an adult is in the kitchen before you use a sharp knife, the oven or microwave. Always dry your hands after washing so your fingers won’t be slippery. Wipe up spills right away to avoid slipping. Use a cutting board when slicing or chopping ingredients with a knife Always use potholders when handling hot dishes to avoid burns. Lift lids away from you and keep your face away from steam. Place large pans on big burners and small pans on small burners. Don’t allow handles to stick out over the edge of the stove or another burner. Ask an adult to lift heavy items and help you pour off hot water from heavy pots—as when cooking pasta, for example. Place hot dishes, pots and pans on surfaces that won’t be harmed by heat. Read the use-and-care manual before using foil or metal of any kind in the microwave. Use only microwave-safe containers for heating in the microwave.