​​​​​​​​Materials​: Child-safe items from your kitchen or pretend food.

STEP 1

Pick a day and meal for your child to help make during the week. Tell them they will get to be your kitchen helper while you prepare a meal.

STEP 2

You can let your child mix, measure, and stir while you cook. You could also give them a plastic spoon and pot to pretend to cook with you if they are not ready to cook real food.

STEP 3

Talk to your child while cooking. You can use number words to talk about how much you need to add, or you can use color words to talk about the ingredients you are using.

MAKE IT EASIER:

Some children enjoy pretending to cook alongside you. They can pretend to cook on the floor or at the table while you cook a meal.

EXTEND THE LEARNING:

Some children may be ready to help you measure each item as you add it to your dish. You can talk to them about how much of each item will go into your meal. They can also help you count and set timers to know when a meal is ready.


WHAT IS MY CHILD LEARNING?

Your child is learning that their body can help your family! Meals are a great way to connect with your child while they learn about cooking.

WHY?

Your child learns best by playing and doing things with you! Making a meal with you will help them learn skills in math, science, literacy, and fine motor skills.


senior adult baking with child