Cooking for Life
Hands-on culinary program that teaches cooking techniques, nutrition, and kitchen safety through guided recipes and meal prep.
- For Students ages 14 and up
- 2.5 hours
- Weekly
Learning to Cook With Independence
Semester-long courses (8–10 weeks) blend structured instruction with hands-on application in a supportive kitchen environment. Students practice reading recipes, following step-by-step directions, and applying essential cooking methods while learning about balanced meals and nutrition. Lessons are designed to promote independence in planning, preparing, and plating meals.
Chef-Led Instruction and Buddy Supervision
A trained chef and a special educator co-lead the classes, ensuring that cooking techniques, knife skills, kitchen organization, and food safety are taught clearly and accessibly. Buddy volunteers provide one-on-one support, reinforcing skills, assisting with tasks, and encouraging Students throughout the cooking process.
Cooking for Life is currently only offered in Columbus, OH. Check with our Columbus chapter for specific class times and session details!
Course Pathway
Course placement is subject to instructor discretion.
Learn foundational kitchen skills including measuring, cutting, mixing, and following simple recipes.
Prerequisites: Basic reading skills and the ability to follow step-by-step directions independently and with support
Build on foundational skills by practicing a variety of cooking techniques including boiling, steaming, roasting, and sautéing through guided, hands-on recipes.
Prerequisites: Cooking Fundamentals
Optional practice to maintain and strengthen skills.
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Anna loves Cooking for Life so much! She is chopping and cooking vegetables all the time, and even asked for a chef’s coat for her birthday. She cannot wait for the next class!
Janise, Student Parent
