We’ve all been there, planned an afternoon of baking with the children, only to find that they’re either squabbling, putting flour where they shouldn’t and doing the opposite of everything you tell them – so much so that you end up taking over and wondering why you bothered in the first place! Sounds familiar, right?
It’s even more stressful if you’re the proud owner of a brand-new kitchen or you’ve just installed a new floor; if you’re in the market for a new floor in your kitchen then try clicking here for some flooring inspiration.
With a hot stove, sharp knives and all other kinds of hazards in the kitchen, it can be difficult to get the little ones involved successfully. So here you’ll find a few ideas that’ll get you all in the kitchen and working well together!
Cracking the eggs
Very messy…but very fun! It may sound like a very minute task, but this is one that all kids enjoy. It may be a little nerve wracking but hand them an egg and see how they get on – it’s a very grown up job! Show them how to “tap-tap-tap!” the egg gently on the side of the dish and then pull the sides of the shell away from each other gently to release the yolk and white from inside! Make sure you have a rubbish bin and a cloth to wipe away any mess to hand and make sure you’re prepared to fish out a few bits of shell after their first few attempts!
Measuring up
This was my favourite when I was a kid. It felt like a great honour to help my Nana when she was baking by using her scales with her and helping weigh out the ingredients.
This task is very basic – but that just means it’s fun and easy for kids of all ages. Instruct them to measure things in a measuring jug or in a bowl that’s sitting on some scales, if you’re measuring by cups then show them how to level off with a knife. Then let them enjoy dumping all the ingredients into the mixing bowl.
And who doesn’t love stirring?
Following the recipe
If you have an older child who has a bit of reading experience, then this is a great way for them to cram in a little extra reading and number work – without them even realising it! Ask them to read he recipe along with you and tell you how much you need of each ingredient.
Kitchen jobs
They may not be old enough to stand at the sink, and kids and very hot water don’t mix, but that doesn’t mean they can’t help out in other ways. My kids just love being busy, they love having little tasks to complete and everyone can agree that that is much better than sitting in front of the TV! Whether it’s clearing away the cups and bringing them to the kitchen or helping you stack the dishwasher – get them busy!
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