I'm the Chef Too

What's in the box: A typical kit has the pre-measured dry ingredients and decorations for one themed dessert, plus an illustrated guide that walks kids through the recipe and the science behind it.

I'm the Chef Too combines a baking project with a science lesson for kids ages 4 to 14. Each month brings a new themed kit, and the recipes are mostly sweet. Recent and upcoming themes include a turkey cookie cake that teaches the science of chlorophyll and autumn leaves, melting snowman brownies built around states of matter and temperature, and peppermint snowball cookies for the holidays. Kids get a hands-on, screen-free activity at the kitchen table and something to eat at the end. You can subscribe month to month or sign up for 3, 6 or 12 months, and the longer plans cost less per kit. The site says you can skip or cancel at any time, and it backs the kits with a satisfaction guarantee. You can also buy single kits as gifts, and the company runs programs for schools. The main thing to know is that this is a dessert box. If you want your child to learn everyday cooking or savory meals, look elsewhere. Younger kids will need an adult nearby for mixing, oven work and cleanup, and you will probably need to supply a few fridge staples yourself. It is a well organized, low-prep option for families who already bake together and want a ready-made theme with some science included.