As moms and homemakers we spend a lot of time in the kitchen. And while our children can’t help us with every task in the kitchen, there are definitely ways we can include them. When you include them in what you’re doing, not only do they learn how to do what you’re doing, but it is also an excellent way to keep them occupied! Here are some points that I’ve found helpful when I have my daughter in the kitchen with me.
1. Remember that it’s not about you.
Letting your kids help you in the kitchen is not really about how much help they can give you, but more about giving them an opportunity to learn. Don’t have high expectations that they will actually be able to do a whole lot while they are little. Instead, let me help wherever they can and be sure to let them know how nice it is to work together with them in the kitchen.
2. Small child, small job.
There are plenty of little jobs that your children can learn to do in the kitchen at an early age. For example, my daughter helps get out silverware, puts lids on jars, and even helps squish the cabbage for sauerkraut. There’s always something for them to do, you just have to break down your big job of preparing food into smaller ones for them to help.
As your children get older, they will be able to help more. So make sure that their job matches their ability. This will avoid tantrums and hurt feelings, and actually get you some help in the kitchen!
3. Rearrange Your Kitchen.
Make the dishes your kids can help with accessible to them. If they can get out their own plates and silverware, let them! If you need to store their cups on a bottom shelf so that they can reach them, then move them!
Find a sturdy stool for your kids to stand on while in the kitchen and make a place for them to work on the counter next to you.
Make it fun and get matching aprons or a chef hat for them to use. They will love it!
4. Be patient.
Having your kids in the kitchen will take longer, it just will. There will most likely be a bigger mess to clean, maybe even multiple times. But that’s okay! Don’t mind the extra time or mess because it means more time helping your kids learn to be a helper. So be patient and put in the time to help your children become good helpers in your kitchen. ❤️
Okay, so bringing your kids in the kitchen with you tonight? Here are some recipes you could try!
Recipes:
South Indian Chicken Biryani
Easiest Curry Ever
Chicken Salad
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