One of my favorite homeschool lesson and family pass times is cooking. The kids love to express themselves creatively through baking or cooking. My oldest is always happy to make something interesting and out of the norm. My son makes the best pancakes in town. My two little girls love to help out any way they can in the kitchen. We have traditional foods we make during the holidays. But more important then the food is the fun we have making the food and baking the treats.
As summer knocks on the door it is time for lighter food and grilling! Just because the cooking moves outdoors doesn’t mean cooking together goes out the window. It is an especially fun and relaxed time to learn some new ways to cook. While my oldest is not as interested in grilling, my son believes himself to be the best grill master next to dad.
Teaching cooking skills is always a valuable lesson. It not only incorporates math and science lessons but brings a sense of independence and confidence. Cooking can also spark a sense of creativity. Truly it is learning at its best as it reinforces past lessons and allows a child to use those lessons to complete a task. When the task is tangible and produces something with purpose the lessons are given value to the child. The child also feels a sense of pride a pride and accomplishment for a job well done. I know I appreciate every meal or portion of a meal my children make.
You can begin allowing children help in the kitchen as using a two years old. Just allow the child to do small tasks. Soon your family will be cooking and baking together. Make it a new family tradition and put those lessons your kids learn to work.