5 Tips When Working with Kids

Dear Readers,

Though I do not have kids, I work a lot with them and I love to bake with them. Here are my five tips for when working with kids in the kitchen.

1) Don't underestimate how much they can do. You may not think a two year old can do very much to help you in the kitchen, and it is alway easier to work with one kid, but even when working with a group of little kids, they can still stir, pour, smash, etc., and they will have fun doing it. If working with more than one kid, delegate who does what.

2) Use your senses. Even adults love to taste test. So allow kids to do the same. When working with a large group of kids, tasting the dough may not necessarily be sanitary. I allow my kids to taste the sugar, and flour by putting a little bit of the ingretants on a paper towel. Have them smell the vanilla and the spices. I have even had my kids put glove on so the could feel, and knead the dough.

3) Be willing to adjust your game plan. Your expectations on the experience may not line up with reality. Be prepared to adjust the recipe if the kid puts more of one item.

4) Be Prepared. Make sure you have all the ingredients out and ready, as well as measuring cups and spoons. It makes the process easier. I remember my grandma always doing this before we baked together when I was a kid.

5) Have Fun!

I hope these tips help you on your next adventure when cooking, or baking with a kid. I encourage you to allow the kid(s) in your life learn the fun of messing around in the kitchen and eating something they made. I found it to be very rewarding for me as a kid.

Kirsten