How children can help in the kitchen

I had no idea how to cook ten years ago! And, I did not really care to learn to cook, until I realized that I had to teach my daughter to cook. So, when Rebecca was about 4 and taking an interest in cooking, I finally started trying to teach her. It was a nightmare! I barely had the patience to let her stir eggs. Let me tell you - you cannot expect to say to your children "Get out of the kitchen!," and then expect that one day they can come in and cook without making messes and mistakes!


Lesson learned. Now, my children are all helping cook from the moment they can walk about steadily. (I am not exaggerating. Toddlers can set the table. Toddlers can learn the name of utensils and get them for you. Toddlers can stir a bowl.)

Here are pictures of my children helping to prepare a ham and cheese omelet. Daddy was cooking with them, and I think he cracked the eggs that day. But, Rebecca has been cracking eggs for a few years. (It is time to teach Nelson now!)

Joshus stirred the eggs. He stirs really well :0) He has also graduated to stirring some items in pans while they cook (so long as they are not splashy foods).

Nelson cuts the ham into bite-sized pieces.

Rebecca sliced the onions and peppers. (Note to Self: If you get behind on washing and folding Rebecca's clothes, she will have to wear that pair of pants in the bottom of her drawer.)

Lydia helped by feeding the baby! Food was in his chair, on his outfit, inside the rolls of his legs, on his toes... everywhere. But, it kept the baby happy and Lydia occupied!

I am still in the learning process myself. I don't claim to be an expert. I just thought this post might help out someone with less experience than myself.