This week I wanted to blog on the importance of getting kids in the kitchen at an early age!  Even toddlers can “help” out in the kitchen!!  They can help by doing easy things like washing fruits and veggies, tearing up lettuce, helping to stir ingredients etc… There are so many ways to involve little ones in the kitchen.  I know that sometimes having their “help” actually makes things slower and messier but it really is worthwhile on the days where you have the time.  Getting kids involved with their food helps them to build trust and interest in the food that they eat.  Studies have shown that children are more likely to try new foods if they have helped prepare it.

Spending time together in the kitchen gives you a wonderful opportunity to chat about food, the importance of eating healthy food, and will provide you with fond memories of your time together!  By teaching your children cooking skills and passing down secret family recipes you are providing them with gifts that will last a lifetime!!  They might soon forget the latest toy you bought them, but it’s likely they will remember spending time whipping up creations with you in the kitchen

So set aside some time and find ways to get your little ones in the kitchen with you!!! Try to take some pictures too…it’s always nice to be able to look back on those special times together!  I can’t believe my little helper Hannah was only 2 yrs old in this picture…she’s now almost 8…time flies when you’re having fun in the kitchen

Happy Healthy Eating
Kia

Kia Robertson is a mom and the creator of the Today I Ate A Rainbow kit; a tool that helps parents establish healthy habits by setting the goal of eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables every day. Kia is passionate about creating tools that help parents raise healthy kids!