Getting your guy into the kitchen (happily)

I know there are men out there who cook. I hear about them from time to time, but where are they? They're like Loch Ness ... there's the occasional sighting, but never any proof that they really exist.

Well maybe you can make the legend a reality in your home by getting your guy into the kitchen. Wouldn't it be awesome if he was able (and willing!) to occasionally do the cooking? Try these 6 steps to get him there and let us know how it works out!

• Encourage him to cook what he wants to eat. It may take some sacrificing on your part since his choices probably are not your idea of ideal, but it's about the big picture.
• Help him if he needs it, but let him do it his way.
• Positive reinforcement works! Praise him generously, no matter how the meal turned out. If he feels appreciated he'll be more likely to try it again.
• Offer to do the dishes (I know, but it's better than doing the cooking and the dishes, right?)
• Review basic kitchen safety. If he's really new to the kitchen reminding him of things like where the fire extinguisher is and how to handle hot oil is a good idea.
• Review basic food safety. Nobody can hear too much about the importance of handling raw meat and perishable food items safely.