At Kangaroo Disability Services, the NDIS Cooking Class is about more than just making meals—they’re an opportunity to build essential life skills, independence, and confidence while enjoying delicious food and great company.
This week, our kitchen transformed into a culinary journey across the globe, exploring flavours from Thailand, India, and England. From chicken satays with peanut sauce to a hearty vegetable curry with pappadums, and finishing with freshly baked scones and homemade strawberry jam, every dish was a chance to learn, taste, and grow.
But the benefits of our cooking classes go far beyond the plate.
Building Confidence & Independence
For people with physical and intellectual disabilities, the NDIS Cooking Class is more than just a daily task—it’s an empowering experience. Learning how to prepare meals builds confidence, enhances motor skills, and encourages independence.
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Chopping, peeling, and stirring improve fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
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Following recipes step-by-step helps with focus and comprehension.
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Working together as a team fosters social skills, communication, and patience.
Cooking in a supportive, judgment-free space allows our participants to work at their own pace, celebrate their abilities, and discover new talents.
Exploring World Cuisines & Cultural Awareness
Food is a universal language, and our classes provide the opportunity to explore different cultures through cooking. Trying new cuisines expands not only the palate but also knowledge and appreciation of global traditions.
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Learning about traditional Thai spices and how to balance sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavours.
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Discovering the aromatic depth of Indian curries and the variety of spices that create their richness.
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Understanding the history behind English scones and why they are traditionally served with jam and cream.
Through cooking, our participants gain a greater understanding of cultural diversity, making each meal a learning experience that extends beyond the kitchen.
Food Waste Management & Sustainability
One of the key lessons we focus on is reducing food waste and making the most of what’s available.
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This week, during morning tea, we discussed how to repurpose leftover vegetables into a nourishing vegetarian curry.
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Learning how to store, preserve, and use ingredients wisely helps participants understand the importance of sustainability.
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Cooking with available ingredients also encourages creativity—knowing how to substitute and adapt recipes is a valuable skill.
By focusing on reducing waste, we not only save money but also develop respect for food and the environment.
Shopping, Budgeting & Meal Planning
The NDIS Cooking Class in Adelaide also incorporates important lessons in grocery shopping and budgeting, helping participants develop financial literacy and planning skills.
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Understanding how to create a shopping list and prioritise essentials.
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Learning about price comparisons and making cost-effective ingredient swaps.
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Recognising value for money and making informed choices when shopping.
These skills empower individuals to manage their own meals, make smart spending decisions, and develop greater independence in daily life.
A Social, Supportive & Fun Environment
Beyond the cooking, our classes offer a wonderful space for friendship, inclusion, and celebration. This week, we even had a birthday surprise—a delicious cake prepared by Sue, one of our lovely support workers, and we all sang Happy Birthday (twice!) to mark the occasion. And a fun little highlight—Chef Michelle’s bright new reading glasses! No chance of losing those now!
Join Us & Be Part of the Fun!
Our NDIS Cooking Class in Adelaide are ongoing, and you can join at any time! It’s not just about food—it’s about learning, growing, and connecting with others in a warm and inclusive environment.
Exciting news! We now have a second class available on Tuesdays! Spots are limited, so don’t miss out! Register now: https://kdservices.com.au/day-options-cooking-program/
Know someone who would love to join? Share this with them and spread the joy of cooking! ️
