Kids cutting veggies

tips on how children can help in the kitchen

tips on how children can help in the kitchen

Recently my daughter Nyah who is 9 and son Kayden who Is 7 have been interested in helping me out in the kitchen. Over the summer I sent them to a cooking camp at Sur La Table and THEY LOVED IT! From that camp I felt that they were ready to help me in the kitchen.

I have always been hesitent with them using the knife, peeler and can opener. I did not think they were capable, but to tell you the truth at this age they are. You just have to teach them the correct way and monitor them.

After feeling confident and having my kiddos in the kitchen including my 4-year-old who usually helps with stirring or adding ingredients I can finally say that it is so nice to have little helping hands.

Here I have a break down of how children can help at different ages:

Children between ages 2-3 

  • Pour dry ingredients into bowls
  • Scrub potatoes with water
  • Rinse vegetables and fruits
  • Tear greens such as lettuce and spinach
  • Stir batter
  • Spread butter or oil with a brush
  • Put silverware in the dishwasher
  • Wipe plastic plates and cups
  • Sprinkle salt and pepper
  • On cupcakes decorate with sprinkles

Children between the ages 4-5

  • Level dry ingredients in measuring cup
  • Set the table
  • Cut soft ingredients with a plastic knife
  • Crack an egg
  • Peel an egg
  • Whisk eggs, and cake batter
  • Set the timer
  • Load the dishwasher with utensils and then push the start button
  • Spread butter and jam on toast

Children between the ages 6-10 

  • Use a pairing knife
  • Grate cheese with a box grater
  • Peel fruits and vegetables
  • Grease a baking pan
  • Help put groceries away
  • Load and unload dishwasher
  • Cook with a parent at the stove
  • Scoop batter into pans or muffin pans
  • Use a spatula to scrape down a bowl
  • Use a hand mixer to mix or whip things
  • Use a can opener
  • Form patties for burgers

I am glad that I am feeling confident in my kids helping in the kitchen, it has been a great help and it also has been a lot of fun! I love that they can help me make breakfast, lunches and dinner. 🙂

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