Cooking with your kids can be frustrating. They spill; they splatter; they smear. Plus, there are knives and hot pans and things that they need to learn not to touch and to stay away from. It can definitely be more stressful than it is fun.
However, I believe that allowing your children into the kitchen area is important. I've already shared several reasons why I think getting them involved is important, but now let me tell you *how* to get them involved so you aren't losing your sanity in the process.
Here are ideas of tasks to give your kids at different ages.
UNDER AGE 5:
- pour pre-measured ingredients
- stir dry ingredients together
- snap tops off beans or peas
- smash crackers into crumbs for crusts and breading
- set the table
AGES 5 TO 7:
- all of the above, plus…
- cut soft fruits and vegetables (tomatoes, peaches with pits removed)
- measure dry ingredients
- wash fruits and vegetables
- crack eggs
- decorate cakes and cupcakes with sprinkles
- load utensils and measuring cups into the dishwasher
AGES 7 TO 9:
- all of the above, plus…
- measure ingredients
- frost cupcakes and cakes
- wipe down surfaces
- load the dishwashser
- separate eggs
AGE 10 AND OVER:
- all of the above, plus…
- use small kitchen appliances like mixers, food processor or blender
- chop fruits and vegetables
- add/remove things from the oven
- use the stovetop
- everything!
Continue reading for some general tips for cooking successfully with your kids. Then share your own kid kitchen pointers with us!
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