Help with cooking
Let little hands join in the kitchen with simple, safe tasks that build skills, spark curiosity, and make mealtimes more engaging.
It might not always feel easy to include little ones in the kitchen - things could take longer, messes might happen, and sometimes it just feels less stressful to do it yourself. But even the simplest tasks can make them feel involved without adding too much extra work. It also means you can be less worried about keeping them busy while you are!
Toddlers can help with simple tasks like squeezing lemons, sprinkling cheese, or scooping batter into muffin cups. Older kids can take on more...
Materials
Prep
Step 1:
Set up a safe space where they can reach comfortably (a stool, learning tower, or low table).
Step 2:
Choose simple tasks suited to their age and skill level.
Step 3:
Have ingredients measured out beforehand if needed.
Play
Step 1:
Invite your child to help with a specific task, like squeezing a lemon or sprinkling toppings.
Step 2:
Guide them through simple motions like mixing, spreading, or pouring.
Step 3:
Encourage hands-on exploration—let them touch, smell, and taste ingredients.
Step 4:
For older kids, introduce safe chopping with soft foods.
Step 5:
Celebrate their contributions and enjoy the final dish together!
Extend
Messy Dough Play: Give them extra dough or batter just for squishing and playing.
Food designer: Let them "design" their own mini pizza, smoothie, or sandwich with prepped ingredients.
Themed Cooking Day: Have a colour-based or shape-based food theme (e.g., "Red Foods Day").
