Preparing meals is part of the “real work” of family life. Children can help their parents make simple foods. The whole family can benefit when parents involve children in cooking activities. Doing this kind of “real work” together gives family members something meaningful to talk about. It also gives children a chance to learn life skills by watching and listening to real “experts” on family life—their parents. Working together also helps members of a family to feel connected to each other. Practice mixing, measuring, pouring, etc. with your child as you cook together.
- Make a sandwich together.
- Bake cookies
- Slice soft fruits or vegetables for a salad using a butter knife.
- Squeeze lemons for lemonade or oranges to make fresh orange juice.
- Spread cream cheese, nut butter, or hummus on toast or crackers.
- Crack and whip eggs for scrambled eggs.