If you have a toddler then you know what a challenge it can be to keep them busy while you cook. Most parents will try to creative activity for their children to enjoy while they are working in the kitchen. Next time, let them help you in the kitchen by trying some simple recipes for cooking with toddlers.
Cooking with kids is more than just teaching them to try and enjoy new foods. It’s a complete learning experience. When letting your toddler help you in the kitchen, you are teaching them how to be responsible and follow instructions. It helps your child develop and perfect their fine motor skills, teaches some basic science and math, as well as active listening skills and a responsible mindset. Plus the extra time spent together will continue to strengthen your parent-child bond.
Next time you are spending time in the kitchen, try finding some simple recipes for cooking with kids. There are recipes for snacks, breakfast, dinner, or any other meal. Here are some of my favorite delicious, yet simple recipes for cooking with toddlers.
1. Waffles
Waffles for breakfast not only taste good, but they are also a great example of a simple recipe for cooking with toddlers. Search for an easy, basic, step-by-step homemade waffle recipe. Then head to the store and let your toddler help you find the ingredients.
Once back home, get started! Your toddler can help add the ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir. As he or she adds ingredients, count out the measurements. For example, if the recipe calls for three teaspoons, have your toddler count them with you as they add the ingredient to the mixing bowl.
You could also get creative and add a twist like a specially shaped waffle, make a flavored waffle like a chocolate chip waffle, or you could even add a few drops of food coloring to make colored waffles.
2. Fruit In a Cone with Chocolate Drizzle
Your toddlers will love this fruit-in-a-cone recipe. Cut the fruits into small bite-sized pieces then place them in a mixing bowl. Let your toddler fill the empty waffle cones with the assorted fruits and then drizzle lightly with chocolate. Aside from its deliciousness, fruit in a cone is also a healthier snack choice than some.
2. Banana Sundaes
Another of my favorite recipes for cooking with toddlers is banana sundaes. Cut the bananas in half before placing them in bowls on the table. Add a scoop or two of ice cream to each bowl, then let the kids add their favorite toppings. Fruit Loops, cornflakes, marshmallows, chocolate chips, sprinkles, and cherries, all make great toppings to complete the banana sundaes.
3. Fruit and Yogurt Popsicles
Fruit and yogurt popsicles, like these Strawberry Yogurt Popsicles, will be your toddler’s new favorite. The creaminess and sweetness of the yogurt will have your toddlers wanting to make more. Try mixing in some small slices of different fruits such as cherries or blueberries before placing the yogurt popsicles in the freezer to freeze.
Aside from being easy to make, you can teach your kids about time while waiting for the popsicle to freeze, as well as make a small science lesson on liquids changing into solids.
4. Frozen Chocolate Covered Bananas
Frozen chocolate-covered bananas are a great recipe for cooking with toddlers. Start by melting the chocolate bar in a large bowl. Next, help your toddler dip the top part of their popsicle stick into the chocolate before inserting it into the bottom of a banana. This will act as glue once it sets.
Once it has set, either let them dip the entire banana in the bowl of melted chocolate or use a spoon to drizzle it over the fruit. Then they can add their toppings. Sprinkles, coconut flakes, and nuts are some of our favorite toppings. Finally, the bananas need to sit until the chocolate sets. Speed the process up by placing them, in the fridge for a bit.
Once they are ready, eat and enjoy! I bet this becomes one of their favorite recipes for cooking with toddlers.
5. Energy Balls
Healthy energy balls will help your toddler boost their energy and have fun. These five-ingredient energy balls are perfect for your toddler’s snacks. Your toddlers will enjoy every step of this recipe, from mixing the ingredients to shaping them into balls.
All you need is about 2½ cups of quick-cooking oats, ¾ creamy peanut butter, ¼ cup of honey, ½ cup of mini chocolate chips, and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Then you simply mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined, then form them into one-inch balls.
6. An Apple Cinnamon Pancake
Apple cinnamon pancakes will surely be your kids’ new favorite recipe for pancakes. It is nothing more than the pancake mix topped with thin slices of apple, then sprinkled with cinnamon.
It is quick, easy and one of the best recipes for cooking with toddlers.
To Sum Up
These fun and tasty recipes for cooking with toddlers will make your kids want to cook more and eat more. Cooking with kids is a fun method to expose young children to kitchen activities while also fostering their development of fine motor skills and listening abilities. Enjoy spending time together in the kitchen, bonding, and eating some delicious food!