Chef Jackie Bakula
Founder of Little Bites Academy
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Chef Jackie Bakula is a classically trained chef, a New Jersey native, and now a proud Connecticut resident—and perhaps her most important title of all: a soon-to-be mom of two. After graduating from the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City, Jackie spent years working in the fast-paced world of food television, most notably running the kitchen behind ABC’s Emmy Award-winning show The Chew for seven successful seasons.
But no amount of time in high-stakes kitchens could have prepared her for her greatest role yet: motherhood.
After welcoming her first child, Theodore, Jackie was thrown into the wild, beautiful, and often overwhelming world of being a new mom. Theo was colicky, had reflux, and rarely slept. Suddenly, even the basics—like feeding herself—felt impossible, and she realized something powerful: If a professional chef is struggling to eat well as a new mom, how are others managing?
It became clear that there was a serious gap in support for mothers—especially when it comes to nourishing themselves and their families. Jackie knew something had to change.
That’s when Little Bites Academy was born.
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What began as a personal journey has become a mission: to help moms feel equipped, supported, and empowered through food. Jackie is passionate about teaching parents how to prep meals before baby arrives, how to cook nutrient-rich, restorative meals in the postpartum period, and how to make baby’s first purees from scratch—introducing new flavors and building healthy habits from day one.
But Little Bites Academy is more than just a resource for new moms. It’s a space designed to grow with you and your munchkin—from first bites to confident teen cooks. With our interactive, virtual classes, children and teenagers learn how to navigate the kitchen, build essential cooking skills, and develop a healthy relationship with food.
We believe the more kids are involved in cooking, the more curious they become—about ingredients, cultures, and new flavors. It’s been proven: when kids cook, they’re more likely to try new foods, eat more mindfully, and feel confident making their own meals.
Jackie created Little Bites Academy to be a true community. A place where moms, kids, and teens can grow together, learn together, and explore the wonderful world of food, one bite at a time.
Join her on this journey—as we nourish ourselves, feed our families, and raise a new generation of curious, confident eaters.
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