Gift Ideas under $12 for Little Chefs

While both of my girls enjoy cooking in the kitchen, Lucie REALLY enjoys it these days. I call her my little sous-chef. She's even started watching kitchen shows on TV for fun. Who knows if this is a life-long interest or a passing fad. But, I'm trying to embrace it now and enjoy moments in the kitchen with her.

Perhaps you've got a child (or niece, or nephew, or friend) who likes to cook too and for whom you'll be getting a Christmas gift. Here are a few inexpensive gift ideas for little chefs:

Make a Reversible Apron! Choose fabrics that your little chef will enjoy. I shared this reversible apron tutorial earlier this week.

Make a Love Spice Shaker Jar! Let your little one add that special ingredient at the end. This gift is practically free. Just reuse an old spice jar and embellish it with whatever you have on hand. I used scrapbook paper and Modge Podge. Instructions are available on Life as MOM.

Buy a child-friendly cookbook. Here are a few suggestions that are under $12:

• Food, Faith, and Fun: A Faithgirlz! Cookbook: I bought this for Lucie (sshhhhh...don't tell!). She saw it at the school's book fair and really, really wanted it. I'm not sure if I'll give it to her for Christmas or for her birthday since that comes right after Christmas. But, I know that she'll love it! It includes recipes for many different holidays as well. The "cornucopia" recipe for Thanksgiving was amazingly adorable!
• Once Upon a Time in the Kitchen: The librarian at E's school showed this to me. It looks soooo great. It has excerpts from classic children's stories and recipes that you can make together that are an extension of the story. It would be a great way to combine a storytime at home and a cooking lesson!
• Cook It in a Cup: Quick Meals and Treats Kids Can Cook in Silicone Cups: This cookbook comes with a set of silicone baking cups to use to create the dishes in the cookbook. So fun!

What would you give to the little chef in your life?

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For other money-saving ideas, stop by Frugal Friday at Life as MOM.