Looking for some ideas to keep your kids busy at home this summer? Why not try to get them involved in the kitchen? When kids help out in the kitchen, they not only have fun, but also learn cooking skills, food safety basics and proper nutrition. Plus, they can further develop math, reading, science and fine motor skills — all while spending time together as a family.
No matter what your child’s age, there is something they can do. I’ve listed some ideas below by age group. Check them out and try implementing one this week!
Some tips before getting started: be available to provide the appropriate amount of supervision based on their age, clean countertops and cooking surfaces, pull back long hair, and of course wash hands!
Ages 3-5:
Use cookie cutters
Rinse produce in a large bowl filled with water
Clear tabletops
Mix simple ingredients
Use a pastry brush to oil bread, vegetables and other foods
Use a plastic knife to cut soft fruit or vegetables on a cutting board
Use pieces of fruit to craft funny fruit faces
Ages 6-7
Crack eggs into a bowl
Use a vegetable peeler
De-seed peppers and tomatoes
Shuck and rinse corn
Use blunt scissors to cut green onions, parsley and other herbs
Stir and prepare instant pudding
Prepare lettuce for a salad
Ages 8-9
Rinse and clean vegetables
Use a can opener
Beat eggs
Measure and mix dry ingredients
Use a food thermometer
Juice citrus fruits
Pound chicken on a cutting board
Ages 10-12
Boil pasta and vegetables
Simmer ingredients on the stovetop
Follow a simple step-by-step recipe
Slice and chop vegetables
Bake and microwave foods
When you get your kids involved in the kitchen this week, snap a picture and post it tagging @cooknutrition so I can see your kids in action! And if you want to discuss your family’s nutrition and receive guidance on specific needs or issues, schedule a session with me - 540-599-9378