Baking, Belonging, and Building Skills for Children with SEN/D

At Creative Kitchen, we know that a simple recipe can unlock so much more than something to eat. For children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEN/D), baking and cooking can be a powerful way to build confidence, practise life skills, and share positive experiences with their families. While children with additional needs are welcome at any of our sessions, these Thursday evening classes

were created specifically at the request of families who wanted a calmer, slower-paced environment with recipes and activities adapted to suit the needs of those attending.

Why cooking works so well

Cooking is naturally hands-on and multi-sensory, which makes it an ideal activity for children who learn best by doing. Each time a child measures flour, cracks an egg, or stirs a mixture, they are practising coordination and gaining independence. Completing each step gives them that proud “I did it” moment, and following a recipe provides a clear structure that supports memory, planning, and focus.

Cooking also encourages children to explore new textures, smells, and tastes in a safe and gentle way. This kind of sensory exploration helps many children feel more comfortable with food and can lead to more confidence around mealtimes at home.

The magic of our Thursday sessions

Our SEN/D classes run every Thursday from 5.30 to 6.30 pm at Creative Kitchen HQ during term time. We keep groups small and calm so that every child can work at their own pace, try new things, and feel secure in the process.

Each week we explore a different recipe, from hearty family dishes and warming seasonal favourites to sweet treats that children can take home and share. The variety ensures that children experience both the practical skills of making a meal and the creativity of baking something special.

While the children are cooking up a storm, parents and carers can choose to join in alongside their child or take a back seat with a hot drink. Many enjoy the chance to relax, meet others with shared experiences, and connect in a welcoming space. These classes were created because families told us they wanted SEN/D-specific sessions where they could feel more comfortable. That sense of reassurance and belonging has become just as valuable as the cooking itself.

More than food

One of the most rewarding parts of our sessions is seeing the pride on a child’s face when the dish comes out of the oven. Whether it is a wholesome pasta bake, a comforting soup, or a tray of biscuits, the recipe is only part of the story. The real value lies in the friendships made, the growth in self-belief, and the small but important steps that children achieve each week.

Parents often tell us that the confidence built in class spills over into home life too. Sometimes it is trying a new flavour, other times it is helping to prepare a family meal, but always it is about building independence and belief in what they can do.

Join us

If you would like to share this experience with your child, we would love to welcome you to our Thursday sessions. Together we turn ingredients into achievements and cooking time into connection, confidence, and memories. Click here to view the SEN/D Cooking Club!