This abstract describes a successful model of working with Indigenous children to develop their skills in food preparation and increase their knowledge of healthy eating. It also demonstrates the role that shared meals can play in developing social relationships.

This model evolved over a two-year period after trialling several different approaches in working with Indigenous children and their parents to enhance skills in preparing healthy food. The cornerstone to this program is a successful working relationship between an Aboriginal health worker, a community health dietitian, a local primary school and a neighbourhood house.

• The program is planned and implemented by the Aboriginal health worker and the community health dietitian.
• Eight children from a specific year level are selected by the school to participate one day a fortnight for a term.
• The children meet at the neighbourhood house that has a well-appointed kitchen and a large dining area.
• The children’s task is to cook a main course and a desert and to invite their parents to share a meal for lunch.
• The initial task is to read and interpret the healthy recipes as a group.
• The children are then divided into two groups, where they learn food preparation skills.
• The children are also shown how to set tables and serve food and tidy up.
• A guest speaker is organised from the Aboriginal community to talk to the children and parents about their story and to encourage the children to continue with their education.
• Non-Aboriginal people present at the time are also encouraged to participate in the meal.