Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Young chefs match wits in family-friendly cooking contest.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 6+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Rachael Ray's Kids Cook-Off
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
RACHAEL RAY'S KIDS COOK-OFF is a reality competition in which up-and-coming culinary masters face off in a series of cooking challenges moderated and judged by professional chef and TV personality Rachael Ray and her guest hosts. Eight kids ranging in age from 11 to 13 roll up their sleeves and get to work under Ray's watchful eye, preparing some of their signature dishes and creating new ones on the fly to complete timed tasks presented by the hosts. One competitor is eliminated each week, culminating in the crowning of a Kids Cook-Off Champion, who wins a cash prize and the rights to a Web series.
Is It Any Good?
Young foodies and culinary novices alike will like watching these pint-size kitchen masters at work, and the fact that they're so young really inspires a can-do attitude about cooking at any age. Even if your kids don't know their bruschetta from their brie, there are plenty of beginner skills and knowledge they can pick up from watching. Of course, the show's value isn't limited to a young audience, either. Unless you're an accomplished chef yourself, you'll no doubt pick up a thing or two from these impressive kids.
Although Ray and her guests play down the competitive side of the show, it is by nature a contest that only one person will win. It's tough to watch the kids fret over mistakes they make that might cost them a chance at their dream, and you really feel for them while they await the judges' reactions. But Ray and her guests always balance their criticism with encouraging feedback and make sure the kids stay focused on what they've done well, so the overall mood is positive and celebratory.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about healthy eating. Which of the dishes featured in the show are healthy? Which are not? What are some ways your family can improve your eating habits?
What is the difference between a hobby and a passion? Which category would define the contestants' attitude toward cooking? Do your kids enjoy a pastime to the same degree?
Kids: If you could be mentored by a role model, whom would you choose? What would you hope to learn from him or her? How would you handle it if you disagreed with his or her advice?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 24, 2015
- Cast : Rachael Ray
- Network : Food Network
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Cooking
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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