Where to start with kids helping in the kitchen or even preparing their own snacks or quick meals? It is important to include your kids in talking about food preferences, time for meal planning, grocery shopping, and food preparation. Lessening frustrations and limiting too high of expectations by both parents and their kids are key in enjoying the kitchen together.
Working in tandem to keep a well-stocked pantry/frig/freezer along with having kid friendly recipes at your fingertips will go a long way in your kids becoming awesome cooks. Plus, they will be getting in a few of those much-needed nutrients as a bonus!
Kids enjoy finger foods, things like pizza, wraps, trail mix snacks, and tasty beverages they can enjoy on the go. Make ahead foods like muffins and fruit/yogurt parfaits help make school day early mornings much brighter for all!
Finding recipes that are quick and easy to prepare and can be made when the “time is right†and kids are eager to cook is important.
These recipes were all created with kids and tested in northern New Mexico school programs. They include many diverse and ethnic foods. There are simple recipes for homemade applesauce and salsa that kids will love making and eating.
Recipes are divided by age (elementary, middle, and high) to help filter skills needed. The site also offers a task by age guide for kids in the kitchen.
Numerous tasty goodies here like quesadillas, wraps, pizzas, smoothies and PB&J on a stick even!
Ideas for recipes that kids can make on their own or with little supervision) for quick meals and snacks. Taco in a bag, banana muffins, and yogurt/fruit parfaits are sure to be favorites.
Vickie James is a Registered, Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist, and Coordinator for the Food and Farm Council of Riley County and City of Manhattan.