Family Benefits
Family History
In generations past, time spent working together in the kitchen traditionally was the opportunity for mothers and daughters to talk about all things great and small. There was time to discuss everything from questions about life when the mother was growing up to the best way to finish the latest homework project. Luckily, times have changed and now the whole family can spend this quality time in the kitchen. If you feel like you never have enough time to connect with your children, this is a great way to make a little more time together.
Many parents have also noticed that the best time to get kids to talk about something that is on their minds is when there is some other activity going on. Perhaps you've noticed that your child will mention something that is bothering him or her when you're driving or at bedtime. Wouldn't it be nice to set aside some time on a regular basis to allow this type of exchange to happen? Working together in the kitchen is an ideal setting for fostering such important moments together.
Consider the Possibilities
Too often, parents think there is some blueprint or "correct way" for kids and parents to engage in an activity, but, not only are you your child's best teacher, you are also the person who knows him or her the best. Sure, some kids will happily assist you in the kitchen for hours, but others are best at helping for short spurts.
There's nothing wrong with letting your child help with part of the preparation and then head out to play or read a book while you finish mixing in the rest of the ingredients. Another favorite activity—depending on the child's age—is playing in the water in the kitchen sink. An extra set of plastic measuring cups makes this a fun activity, but also supervised because you're right there. Kids also love to see what sinks or floats, so not only can they learn about the properties of different objects, they can have fun while doing so.
As your child becomes more proficient in helping in the kitchen, perhaps he or she will be happy to assist for longer periods of time. What is important to keep in mind is that this should be fun and safe, or else your little helper won't want to help the next time.
Benefits for Parents, Too
We've discussed some of the ways that having children help in the kitchen is beneficial for them, but don't overlook benefits for parents also. Teaching kids to help in the kitchen is important because it builds skills that are essential. It's like picking up toys. Sure, you can probably do it more quickly by yourself, but if your child doesn't learn how to do it, then he or she probably never will. You'll also be the envy of your friends whose children seem unable to even find the refrigerator without help. Cooking with kids is fun and challenging, but doesn't that sound a great deal like parenthood?