An Extra Pair of Hands in The Kitchen
Tina Kozman
CNP, B.Sc, M.Ed.
Kids are balls of energy; we all know that; and one way we could get them to release this pent-up energy and keep them busy is to get them in the kitchen. Here are some pros of having children participate in the kitchen (beside directing their energy somewhere beneficial) that will encourage you to call up your kid the next time you’re cooking.
Added interest and incentive in meals.
Kids are picky eaters, but they are always proud of their creations, you can guarantee that if they participate in their meal preparation, they are more likely to eat it.
A chance to discuss nutrition
If you’re wondering how to discuss nutrition and eating choices with your kid, and help them develop liking for fresh healthy food, the stage is yours, when is a more relevant timing that this one? Talk about the importance of getting vegetables in their bodies! Don’t “hide” it, kids need to know what’s happening inside their bodies, and teach them what nutrition does and why good choices are important. The more a child is exposed to wholesome ingredients, the more accustomed he/she will become to them.
"Kids are so dynamic; if you're tired and you walk into a roomful of kids, your energy is brought up to their level."
Quality Time
Most family memories are made during times like these, these types of activities open channels of communication that will help in children’s growth. It is best to establish family habits during childhood to help establish knowledge of shared responsibility and interactions.
Help them become informed “little” consumers
Cooking with children gives them insights on smart food choices, nutritional values, and ingredients; they will start paying attention to what they put inside their bodies, thus reflecting on their overall health. You can also take them grocery shopping to organic, non – GMO, clean 15, small local stores, farmers markets… etc. I guess now you’re wondering how to get that started, you can start by inviting them to make breakfast together on weekends or Look through all kinds of cookbooks, magazines and articles for inspiring recipes together and have them tab, tag, highlight the recipes that they would like to try & take them on grocery shopping trips, to get ingredients for the meal you plan to cook together. And remember! Repetition is key! Kids will eventually learn and develop healthy habits from you, as you continue to model healthy food choices. (Reuters Health) - By using the right words and repeating the phrases, adults can help young kids get over picky eating behaviors and eat healthier foods, according to a new study.