If the kids are running around like crazy or starting to get bored, try engaging them in something you have to do anyway—cooking! With a little advance planning, it’s easy to keep kids busy in the kitchen.
Follow our tips to turn your children into great little chefs.
Prepare Easter dinner with the kids
There are several ways your kids can help you with the Easter meal:
– Prepare the appetizers
– Wash, spin and assemble the salad
– Peel vegetables for the side dish
– Stick cloves in the ham
– Cut up fruit for dessert
– Decorate cookies and other homemade Easter treats
Remember, fun is the key ingredient when cooking with kids!
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1. Make sure you have time
Supper might not be the best time to get kids involved in meal prep, as you may find yourself rushing to finish other chores and getting the kids ready for bed. Instead, schedule time during the day to make cooking a fun, rewarding and stress-free experience.2. Give them the right tools
Giving kids their own workspace and tools in the kitchen will boost their confidence and sense of independence. Make sure you give your little chefs equipment that’s appropriate for their age and abilities.3. Involve them at every stage
Adapt tasks to your kids’ abilities to keep them engaged them at every stage of the process, from recipe selection to plating. They can wash and peel fruits and vegetables, break eggs, grease pans, measure, mix, spread, shape—the possibilities are endless! Show them what to do and how to do it, then let them experiment without criticizing them.4. Take educational breaks
This is a great opportunity to teach your little ones all sorts of things! How do bananas grow? What’s tofu? How are cranberries harvested? How does composting work? Do some research ahead of time so you can teach your children all the secrets your food has to offer. It’s also a great way to let them discover new flavours and textures.5. Involve them in the cleanup
Impart a sense of responsibility by having them help with the clean up. They’ll be so proud to help you clean the counters, put the utensils in the dishwasher or sweep the floor. It’s also a great way to teach them to see an activity through all the way to the end. All that’s left is to let them proudly serve their masterpiece to the family!Make a seamless child’s apron
Pick out an old adult T-shirt, cut around the collar and remove the sleeves and back, except for two strips of fabric at your child’s waist. Adjust the length and you’re all set!
