COOKING WITH KIDS

COOKING WITH KIDS – THE DO’S & DON’TS!

I absolutely adore cooking with my littles and I loved cooking with my bigs when they were little! So this experienced chef has provided a little guide to get you and your kitchen fully equipped to accommodate a toddler chef. First we will go over some small dos and don’ts, the proper attire of course as well as some great equipment you’ll need to survive in style when cooking with kids! Then once you’re done prepping your kitchen for a mini chef, check out some of our kid friendly baking recipes!

A “DO” FOR COOKING WITH KIDS

Be honest with your little. Let them know that there are rules and why each rule is there when it comes up. Kids are much more responsive when they understand the reason that they are being told no versus a simple “no, because I said so.” Let them know that there are some jobs that are grown-up only jobs and some jobs that will be just for them. *Rule example: Always wash your hands when entering or leaving the kitchen. *Grown-Up Job: Operating the stove top, oven, electric mixer (etc.). *Tot-Job: Stirring, kneading, handing and pouring ingredients, etc.!

Do set either some or all of the ingredients out ahead of time, just to keep you a little more sane, especially if your co-chef is in the 2-3 range. 3-4 is a bit easier but it is still nice to have some of the prep done.

A “DON’T” FOR COOKING WITH KIDS

Start until they understand what their job is and what is expected of them. Don’t let a tantrum happen in the kitchen. If your tot won’t cooperate then remove them from the situation (and room) until they are ready to use proper baking etiquette. Kitchen is not a playground and can be dangerous. Only happy, fun, responsible baking…no tantrums or monkey behavior allowed.

FUN TOOLS FOR TOTS!

I am a huge lover of all things Melissa & Doug but today we aren’t playing so set aside the toys and get out the real cooking utensils for kids!

A real-looking, handmade cotton child’s apron from ForSmallHands.com.

Baking hat from ForSmallHands.com.

A baking bundle from CuriousChef.com that includes a frosting spreader, cookie turner, and a rolling pin.

A baking set from KitchenKapers.com that includes spatula, a whisk, and a mixing spoon.

A measuring set that includes measuring cups and measuring spoons, large easy grip mixing spoon, a kitchen timer, ingredient bowls that come with lids and this set even comes with a cute grocery list and stickers.

Have so much fun with your awesome lil’ chef!