Kids Take Over the Kitchen

September 13th is National Kids Take Over the Kitchen Day, so go ahead and relinquish those mealtime duties to the kids!

Try these tips to let the kids have some healthy fun in the kitchen.

1. Slow Down

We know that everything takes a lot longer when you’re dealing with kids, and letting them play chef is no exception. Allow for extra time.

2. Really Let Them Cook

Of course we need to make sure young kids aren’t handling sharp knives or the hot oven, but let them crack eggs (just be ready to scoop out shells), pour and measure out ingredients, and chop or cut when age appropriate.

3. Be Ready for the Mess

Your kitchen will probably get messy and your kids will probably be even messier. So expect the mess, don’t get angry about it, and teach your kids to clean as they cook.

4. Teach Them How to Read a Recipe

From ingredients, prep work, to putting it all together, talk to your kids about the recipe so they know what step is coming up and how all of the steps come together to make the meal.

5. Encourage Taste Tests

Any great chef will tell you that you need to taste your food as you are eating it. So encourage them to take small bites and tastes as they put together their meal.

6. Teach Proper Food Hygiene

You know the drill: wash your hands before you cook, after you touch raw meat wash your hands, and if you use a spoon or fork to taste test the food, don’t put it back into the pot.

Information adapted from an article by Amanda Mushro on TLC.com.

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