About Us
The Founder
Hi, I’m Chef Arlena, and I’m thrilled to share the joy of teaching kids to cook with others across the nation. This journey began in my own kitchen, where I discovered how transformative cooking could be for children—building their confidence, independence, and willingness to try new things.
With a background in culinary arts and education, I’ve poured my experience into creating a program that makes teaching kids both simple and rewarding. Our ready-made lessons and supportive network have helped people from all walks of life bring this opportunity to their communities—and I’d love to help you do the same.
Let’s inspire the next generation of confident young chefs together!
Why Choose a CCI Certified Kitchen?
Created for Them
Extending Education
Life Skills
Empowerment
Skills learned through cci
• Nutrition and healthy eating choices.
• Increased creativity and imagination
• Strength and hand control development
• Culture, geography and world studies.
• Sense of service and family participation
• Planning and time management
• Willingness to try and enjoy new foods
• Reading and following instructions
• Hygiene and cleanliness
• Budgeting and ingredient shopping
• Kitchen safety and general situational awareness
• Increased knowledge of where their food originate
• Self-confidence and responsibility
• Kitchen food storage and care
• Use of weights and measurement
Award Winning Curriculum
Winner of Mom’s Choice Award for excellence in family-friendly media products and services.
Winner of How to Learn’s Parent and Teacher Choice Award.
“The Children’s Culinary Institute is a haven where young chefs embark on a journey of culinary discovery like no other.”
The Founder's Journey
I’m thrilled that you’re considering joining us. Whether as a student eager to learn a parent, teacher, or community leader, looking to teach, CCI is here to help inspire confidence and creativity in the kitchen.
Over the years, I’ve seen young ones blossom into confident, adventurous eaters. Through the CCI program, I bring my years of experience and resources to support instructors across the nation, ensuring the children in our kitchens are in great hands. CCI truly creates a rewarding and impactful experience for both students and educators.
Where It All Began
My path started with a dream to become a teacher. Like many, I changed my college major a few times before earning my certification in the culinary arts. After trying my hand at catering and the high-pressure world of restaurant kitchens, I realized those paths weren’t for me. Instead, I found joy in my own kitchen, surrounded by my kids and their friends, teaching them to cook fun and delicious meals.
To my surprise, they loved it! Their friends’ parents began asking me to teach their children, and I started writing down my methods. My background in teaching and culinary arts, combined with my experience as a mom, helped me create an engaging and effective curriculum. These elements evolved into what many have called an “amazing” program.
Crafting the Curriculum
When I first started teaching organized classes, each lesson was a labor of love. I spent hours planning, tailoring lessons to different ages, and ensuring every class taught essential culinary skills in just 45 minutes. This program has taken all that hard work and made it accessible to you! All you need to do is print the lesson, gather ingredients, and teach.
A Mobile Mission
As a military spouse, I’ve had the privilege of starting this program in many locations and passing it on as we moved. Each new leader brought their unique touch, and none of them were professional chefs. With dedication and support from our network, they’ve all found success. They created schedules that fit their lives and earned a meaningful income while doing something they loved.
Join the Movement
After a successful launch among friends and acquaintances, I’m now opening this opportunity nationwide. Becoming part of the Children’s Culinary Institute means benefiting from our trusted name and a network of thousands of followers. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or community leader, you can make a difference in children’s lives by sharing the joy of cooking.
If you’re ready to bring this incredible program to your area, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s discuss how you can establish your own children’s cooking classes and join our team of culinary enthusiasts and budding junior chefs.
