How to Get Kids to Help in the Kitchen

The way some children protest about helping to make dinner, you would think they were being dragged into the doctor’s office. The sooner children learn how to fend for themselves, however, the more prepared they will be when they have their first kitchen. To this end, parents can make food preparation not a chore but a joy for children of all ages.


Motivating Kids in the Kitchen

·Delegate different tasks to children each time so one isn’t always stuck with a
task they don’t enjoy. An example, if they set the table last time, have them peel
a potato next.

·Reward children for helpful behavior but avoid using food motivators. These can lead to eating disorders later in life. Instead, reward children with activities they enjoy, such as reading in bed, going to a movie, extra time at the park, or stopping by Petco to coo over the ferrets.



·Turn off the TV and instead play some of your child’s favorite music. Every other day, switch to your station or playlist so children learn to be fair and open-minded.

·Reward children for cleaning up after themselves, especially if they do it without being told. A heartfelt “thank you” will do, but surprise them on occasion with an activity-related reward.

Teaching Kids about Hygiene

·Buy or make vegetable-based soap in the shape of animals to make the very important step of hand washing something children can look forward to.

·Children often have fond memories of parents braiding their long hair. Do so before recruiting them for kitchen duty. Try buying new elastics your child likes and remind him or her to use them before cooking.

Cooking with Kids

·Younger children can bring foods from the pantry or refrigerator to the counter and dirty bowls or dishes to the dishwasher. They can also wash vegetables and fruits while older children peel or chop. Younger children can still safely cut bananas, strawberries, and other soft foods like cheese with a butter knife to feel included.

·Many older children will be able to handle a hand mixer, but until then have them stir with spoons.

·Teaching children how to measure by teaspoons, tablespoons, and cups will also give them hints for math class.

·Any child will enjoy the job of taste-testing. It’s tough, but somebody’s got to do it.


Bio: Alexis Bonari is currently a resident blogger at College Scholarships, where recently she's been researching undergraduate student loans as well as business leadership scholarships. Whenever this WAHM gets some free time she enjoys doing yoga, cooking with the freshest organic in-season fare, and practicing the art of coupon clipping. Alexis link location is listed below:

http://www.collegescholarships.org/loans/undergraduate-student-loans.htm

http://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/business/organizational-leadership.htmhttp://www.collegescholarships.org/scholarships/business/organizational-leadership.htm