In today's convenience society of frozen dinners, take-out food and restaurant meals, some families rarely cook at home. But University of Illinois Extension is working to change that trend through its Youth Cooking School program.

The main focus of Youth Cooking School is teaching kids how to cook and properly use the kitchen. But, the school offers much more than cooking experience. Kids also learn how to read food labels, plan healthy meals, keep food safe, and prevent foodborne illness.

The Cooking School at Christopher runs July 7-11, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. each day at the Community Center. There is no fee to attend. This valuable program is made possible through a federal nutrition grant.

Class size is limited, and advance registration is required. For more details and to register, contact U of I Extension in Benton, 618-439-3178, or email franklin_co@extension.uiuc.edu. If dietary or disability accommodations are needed to participate in this program, please indicate when registering.

Free Seminar for Caregivers

Are you caring for someone with an age-related illness -- at home, in assisted living, or in a nursing home? Maybe you are caring for a spouse with Parkinson's disease. Or, perhaps you are caring for a parent who can't get around very well.

Whether you have been a caregiver for a while or are just starting to care for an adult family member, friend or neighbor, you'll want to attend the Caregiver Seminar. According to Milly Kaiser, University of Illinois Extension family life educator, this seminar is set for Thursday, July 17, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Herrin Civic Center.

Program topics include Caregiver Panel: Sharing Experiences, Laurel Bik, Pat Cochran-Stephenson, and Sue Peterman; Understanding and Interacting with Dementia, Dr. M. A. Memon, internist/geriatrician; Finding the Humor in Caregiving, Richard Pearce, MSW; and Taking Care of You: Stretching Mind and Body, Barbara Tyler, MS, recreation therapist.

The program is provided free of charge and includes a complimentary lunch. Advance registration is required by July 10. To register, contact University of Illinois Extension in Marion, 618-993-3304. If dietary or disability accommodations are needed, please indicate when registering.

For free Adult Day Care provided by Williamson County Program on Aging, call Robin at 618-988-1585 by July 15.