5 Ways To Make Cooking With Kids Fun

1. Set the mood by letting your kids choose a playlist.

Make it a party! Turn up the tunes, and let your kids choose the music. This is especially motivating if you usually don’t listen to the music they like. If your kids are younger, put together a special playlist. A theme is always a hit with younger kids.

2. Don’t start hungry.

Set out a snack to nibble while you work. My kids are so much more willing to get in the kitchen if there is a snack involved. I find they are more relaxed and cooperative when I provide a treat they enjoy. Here are plenty of snack ideas that are easy enough for your kids to make themselves.

3. Decide to have fun! 

It all starts with mindset. If you’re relaxed and having fun, your kids will take their cue from you. Keep the mood light. Your kids can tell when you’re stressed or anxious. Pretend you are cooking with someone else’s kids! You probably talk differently to your neighbor’s kids when they accidentally spill salt on the counter than you talk to your own kids. Remember the goal is to make this enjoyable for you and your children.

4. Strike a Deal. 

My husband and I talk about this a lot. We agree that right now our kids’ “jobs” are to focus on school, play sports, and contribute to our community. It is important to us that they know our expectation is for them to learn how to study in preparation for college. We also value team sports for the exercise and the life lessons. We also want them to be aware that their parents work in exchange for money. I have no problem incentivizing them with money to encourage them to learn things I think are important for their development. They get a thrill out of making money they can spend however they choose, and that sets a positive tone for our cooking experience before we even start.

5. Remember the point.

What is the reason you are cooking with your kids? It is likely not to produce a restaurant-worthy masterpiece. You probably want to boost their ego and encourage independence while teaching them a vital life skill. You have accomplished your goal if you have a happy child who is ready to get back in the kitchen at the end of your lesson.

That is exactly what we do in my membership Teach Your Kids to Cook. There are bite-sized lessons perfect for short attention spans complete with videos and printable recipes you can download.

Click here to learn more about Teach Your Kids to Cook membership.