Im trying to put together a gift for my 10 year old nephew.?

Dry measuring cups and sppons. Spatulas, especially a big heat resistant one. Wet measures, like a Pyrex glass measure. A paring knife.

I have done this before for a gift. I went to Walmart, went down the aisle, and bought things until my budget had been reached. I made sure that I got the items I wanted for her first. One of those wind up timers, a candy thermometer, a meat thermometer, A set of big spoons and spatulas. Pizza cutter.

There are a million cookbooks on the market, I have a bunch myself. I get the most use from Betty Crocker, America's Test Kitchen, Better Homes and Gardens. Look for a good glossary in the book, and even better if you can find one that explains the science behind the recipe.

Give him some good reference sites, like all recipes.com, and Cook's. And give him some good tv shows. PBS has America's Test kitchen, and Martha Stewart Bakes, and MS Cooks, all three excellent. Food network has "Good Eats" with Alton Brown.

Were I just starting out cooking, I would love a box of gadgets. It would keep me busy for awhile, figuring out what it all was.

If you can, copy off some heirloom recipes for him. I got my Grandmother's cookbook. And I have an Aunt who remembers Grandma's cooking, and has helped with recipes.

How well does he cook? If he is not too advanced, Emeril Lagasse has a childrens cook book that does NOT talk down, has tons of instructions, advice and great recipes, including a recipe for his famous 'Bam!' seasoning called Baby Bam. My grandson was about 10 when his mother got it for him. I have eaten many a dish out of that book.

What does he like? You can make him a specialty basket.

For example, if he likes Italian food...

Use a colander for the basket

A couple different types of pasta

A couple different sauces - marinara, Alfredo, etc.

Olive oil

Pasta fork - http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0001BMZLA.01.LZ...

Dry bread sticks

Italian seasoning

Block of fresh cheese

Cheese grater

Etc.

He's too young for sharp knives.

But measuring cups, bowls & spoons are OK.

Whisks, spatulas, mixing spoons, etc.

Joy of Cooking.

Masterchef apron.