Like many young kids, my toddler is active from sun up to sun down. We go to the park, storytime and playdates. On a regular basis, we paint, do puzzles, and color. Yet, often times, it seems like there are so many hours in the day. Thus, I’ve discovered cooking is a great activity for my three year old. We get to spend time with each other. She learns about food. Of course, in the end, there’s something delicious to eat. However, cooking with a young child has its own challenges. Here are some tips for your next culinary adventure with your toddler.
Have all the Ingredients and Supplies Ready
If I turn my back on my three year old, there’s a good chance she might eat some baking soda or drop an egg. Thus, before cooking, I take out all my ingredients and measuring tools. This way, I don’t have to keep walking back and forth to the pantry. In addition, it prevents messes from unattended toddlers. Finally, using plastic measuring tools will prevent accidents involving glass.
Set Clear Guidelines
The other day, my daughter and I made oatmeal cookies. I let her know I would be cracking the eggs and putting the cookies into the oven. Her job was to pour the ingredients into the big bowl and stir. Toddlers can easily get upset. If you set clear guidelines, it will make everything go more smoothly.
Have a Sturdy Chair
It’s important for kids to have something stable to stand on so they can reach the counter. I use a big, sturdy chair with a back on it. Or consider covering the table with a plastic tablecloth and do the mixing there. Some companies even make special stands for this purpose. Overall, avoid chairs or stools that tip easily.
Avoid Hazards
Personally, I avoid allowing my daughter anywhere near sharp knives and hot stovetops. There are simply some recipes that are not meant for children. If you have to do some chopping, it’s best to do this prior to cooking. Also, when opening and closing the oven, make sure to keep kids away from the hot surface. After all, it only takes a second for a burn to occur. Furthermore, explain to kids that the cookie sheet or cupcake pan is hot.
The “No-Cook” Option
If you want to avoid the oven altogether, try a “no-cook” recipe. For instance, take cookies and ice cream and construct your own ice cream sandwiches. Another idea is to make smoothies. Kids can pick out their own yogurt and fruit for breakfast. Then, pour the leftovers into popsicle molds for a refreshing afternoon treat. Even making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches can be fun for toddlers. Cookie cutters can be used to turn the sandwich into a fun shape.
Teach Health and Hygiene
It’s natural for kids to want to dip their fingers in and take a taste. However, make sure to wash children’s hands and discourage finger licking when cooking for others. Finally, remember that cooking is a teachable moment. Thus, including fresh fruit, whole grains and vegetables into the recipe is an important lesson in good eating habits.
Before you know it, you may have a promising chef in your home.
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