Learning how to get around in the kitchen can be a daunting task, especially for people with Down syndrome.
At Kaylee's Kitchen, we are tackling these challenges. Emily, a 22-year-old with Down syndrome, said, “I love cooking because it's so much fun.''
Inspired by love, Joe and Nicole McFarlane opened a kitchen to benefit the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma. “We had a daughter, Kylie, who was born with Down syndrome, but she passed away nine months later from complications from heart surgery,” Joe McFarlane said.
Looking for a way to honor her memory, the couple became the force behind Kylie's Kitchen in 2014. “The idea was to create a kitchen that would help young people with Down syndrome and teens with Down syndrome become more independent,” McFarlane said.
The kitchens we see today are pretty impressive, but things didn't start that way. “The first kitchen didn't have running water. There weren't that many microwave stations. In the process, we discovered that the cabinets were too high,” MacFarlane said.
The space is now fully operational, with microwaves and air fryers at each station, and unsupervised cooking classes every other Friday night. “It's great for kids to be able to be independent and come to a cooking class with their friends and do things on their own,” said Sara Soel, executive director of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma.
They make some pretty creative meals without using an oven or countertop. “We made meatloaf and mashed potatoes, we made turkey and dressing, we made cakes in mugs,” Soel said.
They encourage members to try their recipes at home, and in addition to preparing a great meal, kitchen etiquette is also required. “Make sure the area around the station is clean and put things back in the drawers where they belong,” Soel said.
After cooking, everyone sits down and enjoys the meal they have made. In some cases, it can be more than just friendship. “They're going to get together here for a date night and cook together in Kylie's kitchen. So what better way to build a relationship than by cooking in Kylie's kitchen.” said Soel.
Kitchen costs can quickly add up when you factor in maintenance, supplies, and food. If you would like to donate, please visit www.dsaco.org.
