Is this something that that:

1. Won't hurt the child to eat or is even good for them.

2. The child will eat or enjoys eating

3. The child can participate in making

4. The child can make themselves (with guidance)

 

More likely it's a combination of all the above.

The best kid-friendly cookbook I found came with pictures of all the ingredients and tools needed, and drawings or pictures of all the steps needed. It even comes with an icon to indicate when grown up help is needed.

 

Since my 5 year old is a very visual person, these pictures make things much easier for him, and more likely to want to help in the kitchen. Even if it's just for a few minutes.