With the holidays just around the corner, many families are planning special meals that include many traditional favorites. One way to help keep these family traditions alive is to get your kids in the kitchen with you.

Not only will your children gain an appreciation for some time-honored recipes and family traditions, they also will develop more healthy eating habits, said Jenni Klufa, assistant state specialist with Oklahoma State University Extension’s Community Nutrition Education Program.

“Obesity rates are up for both children and adults in Oklahoma. Youth obesity rates are nearly 22% a...