From the sound of carrots being chopped on a cutting board, to the sizzle of chicken on the grill, it is easy to notice the sights and smells of healthy cooking filling the air at the Arthur Library thanks to a unique set of classes being offered for kids and teens. 

Anita Dukeman is making it her mission to teach kids how to cook. In recent years this teacher has seen kids knowledge of cooking decline as families spend more and more time eating meals outside the home. It is the reason she has begun offering a kids “Summer Boot Camp” to teach fundamental skills. 

“If they learn just a few skills to make a few recipes, then they are that much ahead. It does take a little bit of time but I tried to speed that up with learning and mastering a skill and just getting them away from the fast food.” says Dukeman. 

Dukeman teaches skills such as proper knife techniques and food safety, all of which she says leads students to become more confident cooks. 

While this summers classes have wrapped up, Anita holds classes periodically throughout the year. Her next class for kids will be held September 16th. For more information, you can visit her Facebook page Anita’s Table Talk.