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5 Tasks Your Preschooler Can Do in the Kitchen

Hello Villagers. Studies are showing that getting your kids involved in food preparation increases the likelihood that they will try foods. This involvement can start at a pretty early age. Here are a five ways that your preschool can help you in the kitchen:

Stirring contents in a bowl

Mother and daughter baking

This is a great skill to encourage as you start training your young one in the kitchen. Begin with thicker batter or materials, as it will be less likely to splash. But don’t be afraid of a little mess!

Washing fruits and vegetables

Little girl washes an apple

A great way to let your children explore fruits in vegetables is by washing them. They will not only be helping out, children will have the opportunity to touch and feel the produce as well. This exposure could help lead to an increase in intake.

Cutting soft foods

 

exploring new food

Older preschoolers can help prepare meals and snacks by cutting soft foods with a butter knife or a plastic knife.

Using a cookie cutter

Top view of cutting gingerbread of metal molds

A preschooler can easily use a cookie cutter and it doesn’t have to be just for cookies. Cookie cutters can be used to cut fun shapes out of cheese slices, bread, and soft fruits and vegetables.

Pouring ingredients

Mother and child making Homemade pancake.

Pouring ingredients into bowls will help develop their coordination while they help you cook. If your recipe requires precision you can always give your child a separate set of ingredients.


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Jessica Barnes, PhD, RDN, LD

Dr. Jessica Barnes received her PhD in nutrition from Texas Woman's University. Her research focused on food preference development and creating materials to help preschoolers become familiar with healthy foods. She has worked with families and communities as a clinical and community Registered Dietitian Nutritionist.

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