Now that school is back in session, your days are busier than ever. Wouldn’t it be great if you could get some help in the kitchen? Look no further than your own family—specifically your kids.
Getting your kids into the kitchen is not only good for family conversation, but it also teaches them valuable life skills such as how to cook simple and healthy meals and how to work well with others. Before you think your child is too young to help, try some of these age-appropriate ideas from The Kitchn.
18 Months to 3 Years
- Pour dry and liquid ingredients into a bowl
- Rinse fruits and vegetables (includes scrubbing potatoes)
- Tear greens into pieces
- Stir batter in a bowl
- Pick herbs off the stem
4 to 5 Years
- Roll out and knead pizza or bread dough
- Crack an egg
- Measure and level dry ingredients
- Whisk a vinaigrette
- Spread butter or jam
6 to 9 Years
- Use a small paring knife
- Cook with you at the stove
- Peel fruits and vegetables
- Grate cheese with a box grater
- Scoop batter into muffin cups
Every child is different, so experiment with tasks to find out the ones that work best for your family. Also, don’t forget the clean up—even very young kids can help get the kitchen back in order after dinner including putting silverware in the dishwasher, wiping down counters, and putting ingredients away.
Talk to us: What tasks do you have your child do in the kitchen?