TIPS & TRICKS
Kids in the Kitchen
March 23, 2018
It may get a little messy at times but cooking together is a great family activity that also encourages kids to learn about math and nutrition. You may even find picky little eaters enjoying food more, once they’ve been involved with the meal prepping process.
Before getting started, make sure kids are being safe and hygienic. Stress the importance of washing their hands and only assign tasks that are age appropriate. Depending on their age, there are a number of fun ways to get kids to help. Counting and measuring ingredients is simple enough and helps kids learn about fractions, while also showing them how ingredients work together. Let kids stir ingredients together and teach them about different kitchen tools; older kids can even try using an electric beater. Quick ingredient preparation can also be a task to pass on to your little chefs. Rinsing, cutting food safely and learning how to crack an egg are all valuable skills that they can use later on. Finally, teach kids about the importance of cleaning up after you cook. Then, let them help with setting the table, so they know how to serve the amazing meal they’ve helped prepare for the family. The best part of cooking together is eating together so enjoy the meal and be sure to share some positive feedback with your kids – this will encourage a growing passion for cooking!
