Toddler in the kitchen

I have two addorable toddlers who love to help momy in the kitchen. Because I want to keep them safe and support their growth as much as possible I started to read a little bit on the net what other people say. Surprisingly enough most say that toddlers cannot experience cooking lessons. Now, here is a stupid statement if I ever read one.

Obviously it depends on the type of toddler you have, but my kids love breaking eggs (ok, only my older one is allowed to do that one), use the whisk, spill er... pour water and what-have-you-not that I have prepared into a bowl or pot (rice, spices, beans, pasta etc.). Sure it is a mess, but then they love it and I know that in the long run it will make my life easier.

 

Oh, my older one (who is 2.5) has also been alowed to help scramble the eggs. He knows exactly what he needs to do. And he has prepared a chocolate cake with momys help. He was so proud - and so was I. This was last month and he stills talks about it! In kindergarden they also make some kind of dough which then is turned into sweet bread rolls - even the little one is doing that one. All the cooking is done under very strict supervision of course.

 

What other things do my kids enjoy? Here are a few things your todlers may enjoy doing when you work away in the kitchen:

1. Leave plastic containers, inexpensive pans, wooden spoons and all types of tools that they cannot break somewhere they can easily get to.  Toddlers will learn the kitchen isn't totally off limits to them and while you are cooking they can join in the fun with their own dishes. Of course, the mess will most probably be left for you to tidy up.
2. Buy or build a kitchen play set with dishes and play food. Collect cardboard food boxes and plastic containers. Get down and play cooking or grocery shopping with your toddler.
3. Help them learn about cooking by showing them the cooking process. Show them the bubbles (at a far distance) boiling in a saucepan or how a egg turns from see-through to white when frying.
4. Teach them kitchen safety early. Teach your toddlers what is hot and what not to touch in the kitchen. Be prepared to repeat it a million times. Your child will forgot or curiousity will take the lead....
5. Teach them new words while you are cooking, names of fruits and veggetables, items that you use.
6. Let them help you throw something into the bin, or load/unload the dishwasher. Ask them to bring you something from the freezer or cupboard. Yes, íf you do it it will be much, much quicker, but think about the long term effects.

But most importantly: Protect your toddler from the dangers in the kitchen. Cook on the back burner or at least make sure the handles to pots and pans are facing towards the back. Don't leave dangerous tools or liquids etc in your childs reach.

And of course, relax and have fun. And ask your child to help tidy up afterwards.... but don't be upset if they don't join in. That will come in time... hopefully.