Teaching Kids Healthy Cooking in South Florida
MIAMI — A group of South Florida children recently discovered the joys of healthy cooking by chopping vegetables and preparing lemon pepper chicken, learning that nutritious meals can be affordable, familiar, and most importantly, tasty.
Ashley Carter, a dietitian and co-founder of EatWell Exchange, led the session. Her nonprofit aims to dismantle the financial and social barriers to accessing healthy food. For Carter, this mission is personal; she grew up in Miami’s Liberty City, where both of her parents suffered from diabetes. Tragically, her mother passed away from complications when Carter was in high school.
Inspired by her loss, Carter established EatWell Exchange to teach healthy eating habits while also incorporating cultural foods that families know and love. Since its inception in 2017, EatWell Exchange has reached over 80,000 individuals across South Florida, offering free cooking classes at schools, churches, and community events.
Hands-On Learning for Kids
During a recent cooking lesson, children learned to prepare lemon pepper chicken and vegetables, actively participating in the meal preparation. Participant Lyric Bailey shared her enthusiasm: “It’s healthy and I love it, and it’s good.” Research suggests that children who cook their own meals are 75% more likely to eat them.
This class was part of Local 10’s Food for Thought campaign during Hunger Action Month in September. Publix contributed by donating ingredients and sending volunteers to assist the children in the kitchen.
“Understanding the foods you eat and their nutritional values starts at a young age,” said Publix Media Relations Manager Lindsey Willis.
Beyond the Plate
Carter believes teaching children healthy cooking skills fosters long-lasting benefits for families. “They are learning skills that will protect their entire family for generations,” she noted.
Looking ahead, EatWell Exchange plans to establish a dedicated teaching kitchen, enhancing community learning about nutritional eating while respecting cultural preferences.
For more information, visit EatWell Exchange and Local 10’s Food for Thought campaign here.
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