Learn to Cook Using Assistive Technology Devices and Techniques

The Tech Kitchen program helps eligible customers with disabilities learn about and choose appropriate assistive technology tools necessary for developing and/or improving their cooking skills and confidence in the kitchen. Program participants use adapted tools while learning cooking techniques and strategies with professional guidance and instruction. Our team includes a Professional Chef, Occupational Therapy staff, and other IATP assistive technology professionals working as a team to best meet the participant’s needs.

A variety of adaptive tools including no slip utensils talking timers adapted grips and a tactile timer scaled 1

Program Requirements:

Participation in the Tech Kitchen Training Program is currently open to persons who meet all of the following requirements:

  • Receive services from specific departments within the Illinois Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS):
    • Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS/DORS)
    • Vocational Rehabilitation Bureau of Field Services (BFS)
    • Bureau of Community Care and Blind Services (BCCBS)
    • Home Services Program (HSP)
  • Are at least 14 years old
  • Are referred by their DRS Counselor. If needed, you can ask your counselor to contact us for more information.
  • Complete the IATP Tech Kitchen intake process
  • Participate in an initial assessment visit either onsite in the Tech Kitchen, in-person at your home, or virtually.
Screenshot

What Makes the Tech Kitchen Unique:

  • Accessible Kitchen: Our fully accessible kitchen showcases a range of simple to high-tech kitchen assistive technology that can be adapted to many different needs. If you are unable to travel to IATP, training can be provided in your home – we bring the equipment to you!

  • Cooking with Assistive Technology: The Tech Kitchen’s one-on-one training sessions focus on choosing appropriate assistive technology tools for improving cooking skills and confidence in the kitchen. Training typically includes several sessions and is based on the participant’s identified needs and goals and can include cooking, baking, nutrition, menu planning, and more.

  • Assistive Technology (AT) Kitchen Tool Recommendations: Our staff works with participants to set specific goals and create a plan for choosing and using assistive technology tools in the kitchen. Participants try different tools while learning strategies and cooking techniques. Assistive Technology tools that meet the persons’ needs are typically provided at no cost on a long-term loan basis.

  • Professional Staff: The program has a full-time professional chef and licensed occupational therapy staff who work together with the customers and are trained to use assistive technology tools and strategies that address specific needs and abilities for meal preparation.

  • Community Resource: IATP staff are available for remote or in-person assistive technology-related cooking demonstrations and educational presentations geared for businesses, schools, and groups that want to learn how to make cooking accessible to everyone.
Screenshot

You will Learn To:

  • Use kitchen technology that addresses your specific disability needs
  • Cook when your hands are shaky or clumsy
  • Prepare food when seated in a wheelchair, scooter, or rollator
  • Follow a recipe when you can’t see or read well
  • Organize and stay focused when cooking
  • Prepare and cook efficiently to avoid getting overtired
  • Plan for and cook tasty food that matches your dietary needs
  • Practice kitchen safety
  • Gain confidence to cook for yourself or your family and friends
IMG 3330 slicing fruit e1685112533891 JIAENc.tmp

Tech Kitchen Spotlight

Meet Howard

Howard Wilson has always loved cooking, but after losing his vision in 2015 due to end-stage glaucoma, he faced new challenges in the kitchen. Determined to continue preparing meals and sharing them with others, Howard was referred to the IATP Tech Kitchen to explore ways technology could support his independence.
From the very first session, Howard’s enthusiasm was clear. During his initial evaluation, he confidently navigated his kitchen and shared his multitasking goal to keep several dishes hot at the same time. Together, we prepared a meatloaf recipe while introducing adaptive tools such as a talking thermometer, tactile labeled measuring cups, a talking kitchen scale, heat-resistant gloves, and tactile markers on his oven and stove. Howard quickly grasped the purpose of each device and was thrilled by how much easier and safer they made his cooking experience.

Over subsequent sessions, Howard’s skills and confidence continued to grow. He practiced more complex recipes and multitasking techniques, learning to use all the adaptive tools with increasing comfort. By the final session, he successfully prepared a multi-step quiche independently, demonstrating excellent safety awareness, precise use of measuring tools, and strong multitasking skills.

Howard was thrilled with his progress and with the tools and techniques he learned. He shared that he now feels fully equipped to work in his kitchen, is excited to cook for friends, and enjoys the independence and confidence the Tech Kitchen program has given him. Howard’s journey is a powerful example of how assistive technology can open doors, allowing someone to pursue their passions with joy and safety.