A message from Gina Flanagan Mascali, founder and President of Little Cooks, Ltd.

Do you love kids? Do you love to cook? I know I do! What's more, in combining these two loves, I learned quickly that children of all ages enjoy "mixing things up" in an easy, fun-filled atmosphere. It seemed only natural to teach children the joy of cooking through birthday parties, after school classes and on other special occasions.

Little Cooks, Ltd started simply. Back in1994 in Westchester, N.Y., I began giving cooking parties for the children of a few friends. Soon the response was overwhelming. In 1999, our first Instructors joined our team. We now have Instructors in over ten major metropolitan areas throughout the country and are continuing to grow. We've added party packages: a complete kit for those who want the ease of having goods for an entire party delivered to their door, but who want the "hands-on" cooking experience with their children. We also offer a whole line of party favors and cooking gifts.

Anyone who spent time as a child in the kitchen with mom remembers fondly what wonderful times those were. But moms and dads are busy these days. It's hard to gather the family together to enjoy a meal, let alone to prepare one. So, why not let Little Cooks, Ltd. help. Little Cooks, Ltd. guarantees a well-organized cooking party for children ages 4 and up, in your own home. Kids love getting involved in food preparation, and its fun to see how quickly they learn different techniques. They feel a real sense of accomplishment feasting on one of their own creations and bringing home a treat as well.

Little Cooks, Ltd. also offers after school classes, scout troop instruction, and classes at local specialty stores. These programs have recently been expanded to include "Little Cooks Around the World". The children learn about the culture from which a recipe has come, and then they get a taste, literally, of that country or culture.

Our parties and programs teach not only cooking skills, but also elementary math skills, nutrition and chemistry. Give a child an opportunity to build confidence and develop skills that will last a lifetime. Looking forward to seeing you and your child in the kitchen soon!

Gina Flanagan Mascali