I really should have finished my thoughts before I sent the previous reply. I started each of my four children cooking at somewhere between seven and nine years of age. LOTS OF SUPERVISION!!!!! They learned what scalding, burns, and cuts were beforehand, safety first. Had to perform things many, many times before they were allowed to do certain things unsupervised. However, I now have no fear of telling any of them to prepare a meal when I want to relax. I usually have them do at least one a month that they have never prepared before. They also have to check out the cupboards and provide me with a grocery list, at least three days prior. Next week my third child will be off to college, leaving one at home. I have two more years to pass on cooking knowledge to my last daughter. Maybe after that I'll be able to teach my wife to cook?