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Dinnertime can be a stressful time for many families, especially when it comes to bringing your preschooler into the kitchen to help with the preparation. It can be a daunting task to teach your preschooler kitchen safety, not to mention the mess that could be created in the process. However, with a few simple tips and tricks, you can make dinner time with your preschooler a fun and stress-free experience!
The first step when bringing your preschooler into the kitchen is to give them a tour of the kitchen.
You can make this experience like a pretend trip to a restaurant, teaching them the names of different kitchen appliances and reinforcing kitchen safety rules. You can even find a fun video about kitchen safety to show them before you get started! By introducing your preschooler to the kitchen in this way, you can help to reduce your own anxiety about having them in the kitchen while you are cooking.
The next step is to create a “menu” of simple meals that uses minimal kitchen appliances.
This is where you can modify an old favorite recipe or try something new. Breakfast for dinner or homemade pizza are always a hit with preschoolers! Don’t be afraid to use the microwave for some of your meals. Frozen waffles work just fine! Add a blueberry smiley face and you have a fun twist on a classic.
Next, expect a mess.
Measuring cups will be overfilled and eggs will be dropped, but that’s ok! Cover areas you plan to use with any sort of disposable or washable surface. Whip out all your cutting boards, baking sheets, etc. as a buffer between your sous chef and your counter.
Involve your preschooler in the preparation.
Let them help measure ingredients, mix them, and shape them. When possible, pick recipes that can be made with minimal cooking, such as no-cook sauces, salads, sandwiches, and smoothies! Allow your preschooler to choose which ingredients to include, and provide an array of options so that they can be creative.
Encourage your preschooler to help with meal planning and grocery shopping.
Let them pick out some of the ingredients for the recipe. This will give them a sense of ownership and will make them more interested in the meal. Finally, have fun with it! Put on some upbeat music and let your preschooler show off their dance moves as you cook together.
Creating quick and easy dinners with your preschooler can be a fun and meaningful experience. While it may seem overwhelming at first, with a little preparation and patience, it can be a delightful bonding time.
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