Kids in the Kitchen
If you read this blog, you know that I love food. My whole family loves food. We plan vacations around places that we want to eat. Our children stopped ordering off the kid's menu a while ago. Which is great for their palate, but a bit harder on our wallet! The sacrifice is worth it though.
Lately our kids have been showing more of an interest in cooking, which we strongly encourage. I think it is an important life skill, and the sooner they are comfortable in the kitchen the better. Not only is it a way for them to be able to take care of themselves, but it is also fun! It allows them to be creative and it increases their confidence. We just signed up for a monthly kids' cooking program called Raddish Kids and are excited to help them learn new techniques.
https://www.raddishkids.com/
Each child gets their own apron and new kitchen tool every month. Grocery lists and recipes are included, and every month has a different theme. Our subscription starts in February and I will be posting about each kitchen adventure. Until then, here are some tips and suggestions about getting your kids in the kitchen.
1. THERE WILL BE A MESS. GET OVER IT.
I realize this is a tough one. Trust me, I am a control freak and I hate a mess. But, the saying that you gotta break a few eggs to make an omelette is absolutely true. There will be eggs on the counter and flour in their hair and spills on the floor. Repeat after me: IT IS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD. You can then teach them to clean it up. Just like any new skill, it takes time to perfect it. Clean as you go, but don't stress over it.
2. START WITH FOODS THEY LIKE TO EAT
The easiest way to get them in the kitchen is with the promise of food they want to eat. For us that started with baking.
3. TEACH THEM TO READ RECIPES
Reading the whole recipe, from start to finish, is really important so that they know what the plan is. They also need to know how to read the measurements, like 3/4 cup or 1/2 teaspoon.
4. LET THEM GET COMFORTABLE WITH KITCHEN TOOLS. YES, EVEN KNIVES.
Start with small pairing knives, but teach them not to be afraid. Fear is what causes accidents.
5. WATCH COOKING SHOWS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH KIDS
Food Network has tons of cooking shows that are really fun to watch together. Kids Baking Championship or Chopped Junior can be really inspiring for kids to watch because they see 8-13 year olds doing amazing things in the kitchen. And if those kids can do it, why not yours?
Get in the kitchen with your kids! It is a great way to spend time together and teach them. I love passing down family traditions this way too. Get messy and have fun with it!
Lately our kids have been showing more of an interest in cooking, which we strongly encourage. I think it is an important life skill, and the sooner they are comfortable in the kitchen the better. Not only is it a way for them to be able to take care of themselves, but it is also fun! It allows them to be creative and it increases their confidence. We just signed up for a monthly kids' cooking program called Raddish Kids and are excited to help them learn new techniques.
https://www.raddishkids.com/
Each child gets their own apron and new kitchen tool every month. Grocery lists and recipes are included, and every month has a different theme. Our subscription starts in February and I will be posting about each kitchen adventure. Until then, here are some tips and suggestions about getting your kids in the kitchen.
1. THERE WILL BE A MESS. GET OVER IT.
I realize this is a tough one. Trust me, I am a control freak and I hate a mess. But, the saying that you gotta break a few eggs to make an omelette is absolutely true. There will be eggs on the counter and flour in their hair and spills on the floor. Repeat after me: IT IS NOT THE END OF THE WORLD. You can then teach them to clean it up. Just like any new skill, it takes time to perfect it. Clean as you go, but don't stress over it.
2. START WITH FOODS THEY LIKE TO EAT
The easiest way to get them in the kitchen is with the promise of food they want to eat. For us that started with baking.
3. TEACH THEM TO READ RECIPES
Reading the whole recipe, from start to finish, is really important so that they know what the plan is. They also need to know how to read the measurements, like 3/4 cup or 1/2 teaspoon.
4. LET THEM GET COMFORTABLE WITH KITCHEN TOOLS. YES, EVEN KNIVES.
Start with small pairing knives, but teach them not to be afraid. Fear is what causes accidents.
5. WATCH COOKING SHOWS, ESPECIALLY THOSE WITH KIDS
Food Network has tons of cooking shows that are really fun to watch together. Kids Baking Championship or Chopped Junior can be really inspiring for kids to watch because they see 8-13 year olds doing amazing things in the kitchen. And if those kids can do it, why not yours?
Get in the kitchen with your kids! It is a great way to spend time together and teach them. I love passing down family traditions this way too. Get messy and have fun with it!
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