Am I being paranoid?

[Metoeshower]

Have you got teenagers who rush to the kitchen to try new recipes? Well, I have one. My DD who is 13 often wants to try cooking. She has taught herself to cook really well simply by watching You-tube videos. Only thing is, I am concerned about her safety when she cooks all by herself in the kitchen. I have asked her not to use electric gadgets and the oven when I am not around. Given the energy of an early teen I am even concerned about her using sharp knives, which could easily injure her hands. DD sometimes gets frustrated when she really wants to cook, but she cannot, due to the safety concerns I have. Can anyone shed some light as to whether I am being too paranoid?

I would say at 13 she would be capable of cooking safely. If not she needs to be shown and encouraged

What are the safety measures you keep to?

I think you are being a little paranoid. The best way for her to learn is by watching and helping. Youtube videos often ask for caution round sharp knives or hot surfaces. It sounds like if the two of you cooked together sometimes, you might feel happier.

Dd1 is a similar age and loves baking. As long as she clears up after herself we let her. We've shown her how to operate the oven, electric kitchen gadgets and knives etc safely.

It's a great way to help them increase their independence.

I spent every summer learning to cook in a professional kitchen at 13. So long as she knows to turn off the gas, what to do in case of a pan fire and not to stick metal into appliances she'll be fine.

She's 13, not 8.

Thank you everyone for your insights. I think I must make her aware of safety precautions and also the most vital tips eg: how to put off a pan fire etc. I appreciate that it is important to let her grow in confidence and with responsibilities whilst ensuring she is safe.

Also I love minisomakehardwork's condition: to clear up her mess!! It is definitely a good one.