Here are a few of our favorite tips from parents that help kids develop an interest and sense of ownership in snack and mealtimes.
Celebrate the science
Baking is a science you can only master over time. For older kids and teens, you have an opportunity to work side by side, showing them how it all works — and maybe even teaching a little about patience and persistence along the way. And you can’t beat the time spent together doing something fun and productive.
Demonstrate cause and effect
Cooking and baking allows kids to follow a process from start to finish, going from raw ingredients to an assembled mixture to the final product. Let them see, smell, taste and touch along the way where possible.
Build math skills
Following a recipe can help kids build their math skills, from measuring to calculating what you need to double or cut a recipe in half. Or, blueberries are so easy and fun, just give the kids a handful and have them count them before eating.
Get them on your level
Whether you’re rinsing blueberries at the sink or prepping at the kitchen counter or table, make sure kids have chairs or stools that allow them to be part of the action. They’ll enjoy helping when they can – and watching what you do, too.
Go right to the source
Take trips to local farms as well as the farmer’s market. Let kids see where and how their food grows and talk to the passionate people who grow them.
Kids Can Help, Kids Can Eat
