There are a number of benefits to getting your child involved in your daily tasks! Having your child join you in the kitchen can build self-esteem, instill confidence and give your child a chance to practice simple math and reading skills! As parents we strive to give our children as much of a headstart as possible and joining in on these, what may seem like mundane tasks, can be a great learning experience for them! Plus, they get the added bonus of hanging out with mom and/or dad! Below are six healthy recipes that would be great to have a child help with!
CAKE! Cupcakes…Cake Pops.. Etc!
I know you must be thinking that cake is not healthy! And while it may not be the healthiest recipe, there are healthier cake mix options rather than your typical boxed cake mix! Miss Jones Organic Cake Mix is a simple ingredient option that will make you feel great about giving your kid some cake to eat! (The same brand also makes frosting!)
Cake and cupcakes are easy enough! Follow the directions right on the box! Let your child practice some number skills by counting out the eggs or the numbers on the side of the butter! They will also practice motor skills by pouring the ingredients together and mixing them up!
Cake pops are more simple then they may sound! All you have to do is bake the cake, then once it’s cooled you mix in the frosting until you get the consistency you like! Next, ball up the cake mixture to your desired size and place “lollipop sticks” into them! Once they are all on the sticks, you melt some baking chocolate and completely cover the pop! You can decorate and add some sprinkles while the chocolate is still melted! Finally, place in the fridge to cool/harden!
1. Peanut Butter and Jelly!
A lunchtime classic, the PB&J gives a great opportunity for your child to join you in the kitchen. Being a part of their meal will more likely than not make the child more interested in mealtime! Give your child either a plastic knife or even a spoon to help spread the peanut butter and jelly on the bread. This is a great meal for kids to make because it is simple, healthy and is good for their motor skills.
2. Cookies!
Another simple baking option for the kiddos! Get yourself some cookie mix and allow your child to practice measuring out ingredients as well as pouring and mixing.
3. Smoothies/Purees
This is one of my favorites to have kids join in! Make eating fruit fun by allowing them to choose which fruits go into the blender! Add a little water or juice, the thicker you want it just add less liquid. Blend and enjoy!
4. Popsicles!
You can even turn those smoothies or purees into a delicious frozen treat! Grab some popsicle molds from the store and freeze! A perfect summer treat!
5. Chocolate covered strawberries
Another sweet treat that is fun to make with the kids! Melt some baking chocolate, and have your kids dip the strawberries into the warm chocolate! You can even go further and allow them to decorate with some sprinkles!
Having your child join in on tasks such as cooking and cleaning can serve as a great tool as a parent. Children learning to do these everyday tasks boosts confidence, improves math and reading abilities, teaches them life skills, and a plethora of other positive outcomes! Something as simple as making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich can really be a highlight in that child’s day. Spending time with mom and/or dad and learning something new!
SOURCES
Comentários