Frequently Asked Questions

Where do classes take place?

Kidinary is a mobile cooking school — we come to you! Classes are held at partner locations across the southwest suburbs, including Community Christian Church in Plainfield and Naperville, and ACES Homeschool Groups in Oswego. See all our locations.

Are your classes safe for kids with food allergies?

Yes — Kidinary is completely nut-free and allergy-friendly. Our lead chef holds a Master’s degree in Pediatric Nutrition, and all allergy substitutions are reviewed and approved before every class.

What ages do you serve?

We serve kids ages 4–15 across three weekly programs: Mini Chefs (ages 4–8), Jr. Chefs (ages 8–13), and Tween Chefs (ages 11–15, summer only). Camps, parties, and scout badge classes are open to a broader range — reach out and we’ll find the right fit.

Is Kidinary a nut-free cooking school?

Yes — Kidinary is a completely nut-free, allergy-friendly cooking school. We bring all ingredients and supplies, and every allergy substitution is approved by our lead chef, who holds a Master’s in Pediatric Nutrition. If your child has specific needs, reach out before enrolling.

Activities

What types of programs do you offer?

Kidinary offers weekly cooking classes, day-off camps, scout badge programs, and private parties — both in-person and virtual. Every program blends hands-on culinary skills with nutrition education and character development. Explore all activities.

Can you come to our school or organization?

Absolutely! We love partnering with schools, homeschool co-ops, churches, and community organizations. Contact us and tell us about your group — we’ll make it happen.

Mini Chefs

What cooking classes do you offer for young kids ages 4–6?

Our Mini Chefs program is designed specifically for young learners ages 4–6. Classes are playful, hands-on, and age-appropriate — introducing little ones to the joy of cooking in a safe, nurturing, nut-free environment. Kids practice simple measuring, mixing, and healthy food exploration while building fine motor skills and kitchen confidence. Kidinary comes to your location fully equipped — all you need is sink access.

Mini Chefs

Are your cooking classes appropriate for kids who have never cooked before?

Absolutely. All of our programs are beginner-friendly and designed to meet kids where they are. Instructors guide young chefs step by step, so no prior experience is needed. Whether your child is picking up a spatula for the first time or already loves helping in the kitchen, they'll feel right at home in a Kidinary class.

Tween Chefs

What can kids ages 9–13 expect from Kidinary classes?

Our Tuesday Jr. Chef Culinary/Baking Series is built for this age group — offering a weekly hands-on series where kids ages 9–13 explore more advanced cooking and baking techniques. Each class builds on the last, helping young chefs develop real skills like knife techniques, sautéing, baking, and meal creation. Classes are held in a fun, supportive, nut-free environment at Plainfield Community Christian Church.

Tween Chefs

Do you offer cooking classes for tweens or older kids?

Yes! The Tuesday Jr. Chef Culinary/Baking Series is designed for kids ages 9–13 and runs weekly on Tuesday evenings at Plainfield Community Christian Church. Classes go beyond the basics — covering real culinary techniques, baking skills, and kitchen confidence in a fun, challenging environment that grows with your child. Beginners are always welcome.

All Ages

What activities at Kidinary are open to all ages?

Several of our programs are open to all ages and make great experiences for mixed-age groups. Our Day Off Camps are theme-based, competition-style cooking adventures for kids of all ages — held on school days off with lunch included. Our Private Cooking Parties are also available for all ages and can be customized to the birthday chef's preferences. Girl Scout Badge Classes are available for Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, and Seniors, making them a great fit across a range of ages.

All Ages

Can siblings of different ages attend Kidinary programs together?

In many cases, yes! Programs like Day Off Camps and Private Cooking Parties are open to all ages and are great for siblings who want to cook side by side. Weekly classes are grouped by age to keep the experience developmentally appropriate, so siblings may attend different sessions depending on their ages. Reach out and we'll help you find the best fit for your whole crew.

Gift Cards

Can I use a Kidinary gift card for any program?

Yes! Kidinary gift cards can be applied toward any program we offer — including weekly cooking classes, day-off camps and special events, scout badge classes, and private birthday parties. Simply enter your gift card code at checkout when registering through our booking system.

Do Kidinary gift cards expire?

No — Kidinary gift cards never expire. Purchase one today and redeem it whenever the time is right, whether that's next week or next season. Gift cards make a perfect present for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion.

How does the recipient receive their gift card?

You choose the delivery method at checkout. Select Email to Recipient to send the gift card directly to the lucky chef's inbox, or choose Printable to receive a printable version by email that you can present in person. You can also include a personalized message with either option.

What gift card amounts are available?

Kidinary gift cards are available in preset amounts of $50, $100, and $150 — or you can enter a custom amount that works for your budget. All amounts can be applied toward any Kidinary program.

Can a gift card be used toward a birthday party or private event?

Absolutely. Gift cards can be applied to private cooking parties and any other Kidinary program. If you're planning a birthday party or private event, reach out to us directly and we'll walk you through how to apply your gift card balance at booking.

Is a Kidinary gift card a good gift for a child with food allergies?

Yes — and it's one of the best gifts you can give a child with dietary restrictions. Kidinary is a completely nut-free, allergy-friendly cooking school, and our lead chef holds a Master's degree in Pediatric Nutrition. All ingredients and equipment are provided. We recommend reaching out to us before the recipient registers if the child has specific dietary needs beyond nut allergies.

Calendar

How do I register for a Kidinary class or camp?

Registration is done online through our booking system. Browse the calendar, select the class or camp that works for your schedule, and follow the checkout steps. Spots fill fast — especially for camps and special events — so we recommend registering as soon as you find something you love.

Browse our programs to find the right fit for your child.

What does my child need to bring to class?

Nothing but themselves and a good attitude! Kidinary is a fully mobile cooking school, which means we bring all ingredients, equipment, and supplies to every class. Just make sure your child is dressed comfortably and ready to get their hands a little messy.

How far in advance is the calendar updated?

We typically publish class and camp schedules several weeks in advance. We recommend checking back regularly — or following us on social media — to stay up to date on new sessions, camps, and special events as they're added.

Can I register for multiple classes or sessions?

Absolutely! Many families register for multiple sessions throughout the season. Each class or camp is registered separately through our booking system. If you're looking for ongoing programming, check out our weekly cooking classes — they run in recurring sessions and are a great way to build skills over time.

What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Cancellation and rescheduling policies are managed through our booking platform. If you need to make a change to your registration, please reach out to us directly at info@kidinarycooking.com or call us at (815) 600-2044 and we'll do our best to help.