If until now, having your kids in the kitchen with you meant trying to cook dinner while placating your toddler with crackers as he clings to your leg crying, or getting a close up view of your teen rolling her eyes at your dinner plan, fear not! There are ways to get past this nightly misery. In fact, inviting your kids into the kitchen with you can be good for the whole family. It can teach your child to make healthful food choices, develop a lifelong interest in food, and make them more apt to try new foods.
 
As long as you remember your audience, their particular interests and capabilities, and do some solid planning, having your children participate in the entire cycle of meal planning and preparation can be a great experience, and go ahead – dare to dream: FUN! So there it is, the key – planning. Ask your children what they want for dinner. Watch cooking shows together, look through cookbooks and magazines. Be open to trying new things yourself. Take them to the grocery store. Have them clean and help with preparations. Have them taste test and season the finished product. Supervise, always supervise!
 
Have your children help set and clear the table. This is basic etiquette and a great way for them to participate in the meal, even if they don’t happen to be up for cooking on a particular night. Teach them the proper placement of all their utensils too!
 
Keep in mind that cooking with your kids has an even bigger meaning than just opening your child’s eyes to new foods. The time you spend with your children in the kitchen is time that they won’t be texting, watching TV, or on the computer. Maybe that time spent together, working together toward a common goal will strengthen your family life too. Before you know it, you may have a foodie on your hands and a better relationship to boot!