Teaching Young Children to Safely Help in the Kitchen

The kitchen can be a wonderful place for children to learn essential life skills, foster creativity, and spend quality time with family. 

My specialty was making flapjacks, my brother's was shortbread and my wife, as her mother was a professional chef running her own business, she was a proper under chef!

Ensuring the safety of children in the kitchen is absolutely paramount. 

Here’s a guide to helping your young ones navigate the kitchen safely and enjoyably, along with a few simple recipes they can make under supervision.

Safety First

Establish Ground Rules:

Always wash hands before handling food.

Keep fingers away from sharp objects.

Stay away from hot surfaces and appliances.

Clean up spills immediately to avoid slips and falls.

Child-Friendly Tools:

Use plastic knives with serrated edges for cutting soft items.

Opt for lightweight, non-breakable bowls and utensils.

You can buy proper child-proportioned kitchen tools, should you wish.

Invest in a sturdy step stool to ensure they can reach the counter safely.

Supervised Zones:

Designate a specific area where your child can work, away from the stove and sharp objects.

Keep frequently used items within their reach to minimise the need for them to stretch or climb.

Education on Appliances:

Teach them the basics of kitchen appliances but emphasise that only adults should operate the stove, oven, and sharp utensils.

Introduce them to safer appliances, like hand mixers or blenders, and always supervise their use.

Simple Recipes for Little Chefs

1. Fruit Salad

Ingredients:

1 apple

1 banana

1 orange

100g grapes

1 tablespoon honey or lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

Wash all the fruits thoroughly.

With adult supervision, peel and chop the apple, banana, and orange into bite-sized pieces.

Halve the grapes if they are large.

Mix all the fruit pieces in a large bowl.

Drizzle with honey or lemon juice if desired and mix gently.

Serve immediately.

2. No-Bake Cereal Bars

Ingredients:

200g rolled oats

100g honey

50g peanut butter

50g dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, etc.)

50g nuts or seeds (optional)

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats and dried fruit.

In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the honey and peanut butter for about 30 seconds until they are easy to mix.

Pour the honey and peanut butter mixture over the oats and fruit.

Stir until all the dry ingredients are well-coated.

Press the mixture into a lined baking tin, flattening it with the back of a spoon.

Refrigerate for at least an hour until firm, then cut into bars.

3. Mini Pita Pizzas

Ingredients:

4 whole wheat pitta breads

200g tomato passata or pizza sauce

200g grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)

Assorted toppings: sliced olives, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cooked chicken, etc.

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan/gas mark 4).

Lay out the pitta breads on a baking tray.

Spread a thin layer of tomato passata over each pitta.

Sprinkle grated cheese evenly on top.

Let your child arrange their choice of toppings on the pitta pizzas.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Encouraging Kitchen Involvement

Make it Fun: Use cookie cutters for fun-shaped sandwiches and fruits.

Praise Effort: Always commend their hard work and creativity, regardless of the outcome.

Be Patient: Allow extra time for tasks and expect a bit of mess. It's all part of the learning process.

Lead by Example: Demonstrate tasks and proper techniques, showing patience and safety.

By integrating children into kitchen activities, you not only teach them invaluable skills but also create lasting memories. With the right precautions and simple recipes, your young chefs will soon develop a love for cooking that will last a lifetime.

Empowering Little Chefs: Teaching Your Children to Cook

In today's fast-paced world, where ready meals and takeaway foods and deliveries are easily available, the art of cooking at home is gradually fading away, according to some people. 

However, instilling cooking skills in children from a young age can have numerous benefits, ranging from fostering independence to promoting healthier eating habits. 

Teaching your children to cook not only equips them with an important and valuable life skill but also strengthens family bonds and encourages creativity in the kitchen. Here are some compelling reasons why you should consider teaching your children to cook, along with practical tips to get started.

Why Teach Children to Cook?

1. Promotes Healthy Eating Habits:

Teaching children to cook empowers them to make healthier food choices. By involving them in meal preparation, you can introduce a variety of nutritious ingredients and educate them about the importance of balanced nutrition.

2. Develops Independence:

Cooking requires a blend of skills like planning, organisation, and problem-solving, all of which contribute to a child's independence. As they learn to follow recipes and experiment with ingredients, they gain confidence in their abilities.

3. Fosters Creativity:

The kitchen can be a canvas for creativity. Encouraging children to experiment with flavours, textures, and cooking techniques can spark their imagination and helps them develop a deeper appreciation for food.

4. Strengthens Family Bonds:

Cooking together offers valuable opportunities for bonding and creating lasting memories. It provides a shared experience where family members can collaborate, communicate, and enjoy each other's company.

Practical Tips for Teaching Children to Cook:

1. Start with Simple Recipes:

Begin with easy-to-follow recipes that match your child's age and skill level. Simple dishes like sandwiches, salads, or scrambled eggs are perfect for introducing basic cooking techniques.

2. Safety First:

Emphasise the importance of kitchen safety rules, such as washing hands, using oven mitts, and handling knives and hot surfaces with caution. Supervise younger children closely and gradually introduce more complex tasks as they demonstrate competence.

3. Make it Fun:

Turn cooking into an enjoyable activity by incorporating games, storytelling, or music. Allow your child to choose recipes that interest them or let them decorate dishes with colourful toppings to unleash their creativity.

4. Encourage Exploration:

Encourage your child to explore different cuisines and ingredients. Take them grocery shopping and involve them in selecting fresh produce and pantry staples. Teach them about the origin and characteristics of various foods to cultivate their culinary curiosity.

5. Be Patient and Supportive:

Remember that learning to cook takes time and practice. Be patient with your child's progress and offer encouragement along the way. Focus on the fun and rewarding aspects of cooking rather than perfection.

6. Celebrate Achievements:

Celebrate your child's cooking milestones, whether it's mastering a new recipe or successfully preparing a meal independently. Praise their efforts and showcase their creations to boost their confidence and sense of accomplishment.

Teaching your children to cook is a gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. By instilling cooking skills from an early age, you empower them to make healthier choices, develop independence, and cultivate a lifelong passion for food. Embrace the journey of cooking together as a family, and savor the joy of creating delicious meals and cherished memories in the heart of your home.

Cultivating Healthy Habits: Strategies to Encourage Children to Eat Vegetables

Encouraging children to eat vegetables can often feel like an uphill battle for many parents and caregivers. 

However, instilling healthy eating habits early in life is crucial for the overall well-being and development of children. 

Vegetables are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that support growth, boost immunity, and promote overall health. Therefore, finding creative and effective ways to incorporate vegetables into children's diets is essential. 

Here we will explore various strategies to encourage children to eat vegetables and make mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Lead by Example:

Children learn by observing the behavior of those around them, particularly their parents and caregivers. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to encourage children to eat vegetables is by setting a good example. Make sure to incorporate a variety of vegetables into your own meals and demonstrate enthusiasm for healthy eating. When children see adults enjoying vegetables, they are more likely to follow suit.

Get Children Involved:

Involve children in the meal preparation process from an early age. Take them grocery shopping and let them choose their favorite vegetables. Encourage them to participate in meal planning, cooking, and even gardening if possible. When children feel involved in the process, they develop a sense of ownership and are more likely to try new foods, including vegetables.

Make it Fun:

Make eating vegetables a fun and enjoyable experience for children. Experiment with different cooking methods, such as roasting, grilling, or steaming, to enhance flavor and texture. Get creative with presentations by arranging vegetables into fun shapes or creating colorful and visually appealing dishes. Consider hosting themed vegetable nights or incorporating vegetables into fun snacks like veggie skewers or homemade veggie pizzas.

Encourage Children to Grow their own vegetables:

Allow your children to have their own plot in the garden where thy can grow their own vegetables. Also take a look at buying them microgreen kits.

Offer Choices:

Give children choices when it comes to vegetables. Offer a variety of options and let them select which vegetables they would like to include in their meals. Providing options empowers children and gives them a sense of control over their food choices. Additionally, be open to their preferences and be willing to accommodate their tastes within reason.

Sneak Vegetables into Meals:

For picky eaters who are resistant to eating vegetables, consider sneaking them into their favorite dishes. Puree vegetables and incorporate them into sauces, soups, or smoothies. Add grated or finely chopped vegetables to dishes like pasta sauces, casseroles, or meatloaf. This way, children can enjoy their favorite meals while still getting the nutritional benefits of vegetables.

Be Patient and Persistent:

Encouraging children to eat vegetables may require patience and persistence. It's normal for children to be hesitant or resistant to trying new foods, including vegetables. Avoid pressuring or forcing children to eat vegetables, as this can create negative associations with food. Instead, continue to offer vegetables regularly, and be patient as children gradually develop their palates and preferences.

Celebrate Successes:

Celebrate small victories and successes along the way. Praise children when they try new vegetables or willingly eat their veggies without fuss. Positive reinforcement can help reinforce healthy eating habits and motivate children to continue making nutritious choices.

Encouraging children to eat vegetables is essential for their growth, development, and overall health. By incorporating these strategies into your approach, you can make mealtime a positive and enjoyable experience while instilling lifelong healthy eating habits in children. 

Remember to lead by example, get children involved, make it fun, offer choices, sneak vegetables into meals, be patient and persistent, and celebrate successes along the way. With patience, creativity, and a positive attitude, you can help children develop a love for vegetables that will last a lifetime.

Cooking with Kids: Fun and Easy Recipes for the Whole Family

Cooking with kids is not just about preparing meals; it's a fantastic way to create lasting memories, foster creativity, and teach valuable life skills. 

Involving children in the kitchen can be a delightful experience for the whole family. 

From measuring ingredients to mixing and tasting, cooking together provides a unique opportunity for bonding and learning. In this blog post, we'll explore fun and easy recipes that are perfect for getting kids excited about cooking.

DIY Pizza Party:

Transform your kitchen into a pizzeria with a DIY pizza party. Set up a variety of toppings like cheese, pepperoni, vegetables, and even pineapple. Let each family member create their own personalized pizza masterpiece. This not only encourages creativity but also allows kids to practice fine motor skills as they spread sauce and sprinkle toppings.

Rainbow Fruit kebabs:

Making rainbow fruit kebabs is a colorful and healthy activity that kids will love. Provide an assortment of fruits in various colors, such as strawberries, oranges, pineapples, kiwis, and blueberries. Let the kids thread the fruit onto skewers, creating vibrant and tasty kebabs. This activity promotes healthy eating habits while teaching children about different fruits and their colours.

Build-Your-Own Tacos:

Taco night is a family-friendly favorite, and making it interactive can be even more exciting. Set up a taco bar with tortillas, seasoned meat or beans, shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, and other toppings. Kids can assemble their own tacos, fostering independence and allowing them to explore different flavor combinations.

Homemade Trail Mix:

Creating a custom trail mix is a simple and fun way to involve kids in the kitchen. Provide a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and even a few sweet treats like chocolate chips or pretzels. Let the kids mix and match their favorite ingredients to create a personalised trail mix that's perfect for snacking.

Pasta Salad Extravaganza:

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that kids can help prepare. Cook some pasta, then let the kids choose from a selection of colorful vegetables, cheeses, and dressings to mix in. This activity not only enhances kitchen skills but also introduces the concept of balance and nutrition in a tasty way.

Fruity ice lollies:

Cool off with homemade fruity ice lollies. Blend together your favorite fruits and pour the mixture into ice lolly molds. This refreshing treat is not only delicious but also a great way to teach kids about the importance of eating fruits as part of a balanced diet.

Cooking with kids is a wonderful way to create joyful family moments while instilling valuable life skills. These fun and easy recipes offer a starting point for involving children in the kitchen and nurturing a love for cooking. Whether it's building tacos, creating personalised pizzas, or making colorful fruit kebabs, the memories created in the kitchen will last a lifetime. So, put on your aprons, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure with your little chefs!

(Image courtesy of Anna Prosekova from Pixabay)

Aldi has healthy snack ideas for your summer holidays!

No summer holidays car journey is complete without some serious snacking opportunities and Aldi’s Organic Mamia range is perfect for those on-the-go bites. 

For a sweet flapjack style treat, shoppers can pick up the Oaty Bars for just £1.95 (6 pack) with a choice of Strawberry and Apple, Banana, and Carrot Cake flavours. And as there are absolutely no added salt or preservatives, these tasty bars will go down a real treat.

For a crisp style snack without added preservatives, parents can pick up the Tomato Wheels (20g, 55p) and Carrot Puffs (20g, 55p). These are more than ideal for a quick bite.

These organic snacks will make for happy tummies. Don’t forget to keep your children (and yourselves!) hydrated on long journeys without any added sugar with Aldi’s Sun Quench Fruity Blasts (8x200ml, £1.59).

Clean and Clear

Car rides can quickly get messy and when toilet stops are few and far between, parents can prepare with Aldi’s Mamia essentials. For young ones still potty training, no travel bag is complete without the award winning Mamia Ultra Fit Nappies (sizes 4-6+, from £2.99).  Or, for when sticky hands go wandering over windows, be sure to pick up the Mamia Baby Wipes (65p per pack).With 60 wipes per pack, these fragrance-free wipes are formulated for even the most sensitive of skin.

Aldi’s Travelling Checklist:

Travel Magnetic Scribbler, £6.99

Licensed Bumper Stationery Wallet, £4.49

Oaty Bars, £1.95

Tomato Wheels, 55p

Carrot Puffs, 55p

Sun Quench Fruity Blasts (8x200ml, £1.59)

Mamia Ultra Fit Nappies (sizes 4-6+, from £2.99)

Mamia Baby Wipes (65p per pack)

TOTAL: £19.76

 Aldi’s Licensed Products are available in store from 27th July, but shoppers will need to be quick as with all Specialbuys once they’re gone, they’re gone!

Morrisons launches great new pick 'n mix kids meal deal in cafés for school summer holidays

Ever-mindful of the fact that families up and down the country are struggling to cope with the current economic crisis, Morrisons is doing more to help feed families during the summer holidays with the introduction of a new pick ‘n’ mix style meal option for kids in Morrisons Cafés, just in time for the summer holidays. Customers can now pick up a sandwich, snack and drink to feed their little ones for just £3.49.

The new kid’s meal deal can also be claimed free of charge thanks to Morrisons continued exclusive Kids Eat Free offer. Customers will be able to get one free kids meal from the kids menu with any adult meal that's over £4.49. The offer is available all day, every day, seven days a week for any child aged under 16 in its cafés nationwide. 

Sandwiches filled with classic kids’ favourites, ham or cheese, can be paired with a wide range of snack and drink choices likes Hula Hoops, Babybels, jelly, bags of fruit, flavoured milk, Robinsons Fruit Shoot, Cawston Press Juice or water.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager said: “We understand that for many parents and carers keeping the kids fed during the summer holidays can be very much of a challenge, especially with the absence of free school meals. Our new pick ‘n’ mix meal deal, alongside our existing Kids Eat Free offer, are just a few ways we at Morrisons are helping everyone have access to nutritious food without breaking the bank.”

An adult meal deal has also been introduced for £4.79 offering customers a sandwich or toastie alongside a drink and a cake. Toastie options include ham and cheese, whilst egg & cress, prawn, tuna mayonnaise and salmon and cucumber sandwiches are available.  

Both hot and cold drinks are included and cake options include chocolate fudge, lemon drizzle, brownie or a Victoria Sponge.

To find your local Morrisons café, visit: https://my.morrisons.com/storefinder

Frankie & Benny's launch their summer hols campaign today

Readers of That's Food and Drink who have school age (or Younger!) children in the families will be pleased to learn that today is the launch of Frankie & Benny’s summer holiday campaign, Fun In The Sun. 

To coincide with the start of the school holidays they're dishing out £250 cash prizes for parents to buy their children fun outdoor activities/leisure so they can enjoy the great outdoors rather than stare at a screen all day. Coupled with the weekly meal discounts all these initiatives are designed to help families over the summer holidays with the cost of living crisis.

Yes, top Italian American themed restaurant Frankie & Benny’s has launched weekly £250 cash prize giveaways for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors throughout this summer.

Just in time for the long school summer holidays Frankie & Benny’s are on a mission to help families facing the cost of living crisis buy their kids leisure equipment so they can have fun in the sun. 

EVERY week there’s a chance to win a £250 prize for the kids. All you need do is sign-up to the mailing list and enter every week! You don’t even need to buy a meal, it’s FREE and is reallythat simple!

This comes on the heels of Frankie & Benny’s announcements of  a special series of summer super saving meal deals helping families and friends enjoy meals out this summer on a budget.

Frankie & Benny’s, the ultimate family friendly restaurant, has already started giving away £250 prizes and will continue throughout the summer, every week until September 5.

Just sign up to the mailing list and you're in with a chance of winning £250 to spend on anything your child likes from a mountain bike to football goals, tennis equipment, a tent, anything to encourage children to get out and about this summer and tempt them away from screen time!

The first winner said: “OMG this is incredible! My son cried when I told him we’d won. We've managed to kit out our whole garden with outdoor activities.”

Frankie & Benny’s Marketing Director, Andreia Harwood, said: “We're really aware that the cost of living crisis is hard on all of us, which is why this summer we're helping out families with special offers and £250 weekly cash prizes designed to help parents pay for outdoor leisure activities. Frankie & Benny’s put our customers at the forefront of everything we do and making sure they can have an amazing summer is at the heart of our summer campaigns.”

Frankie & Benny’s is leading the way helping families dining out during the long summer holidays by introducing deals specially designed to help with the cost of living crisis.

The popular themed restaurant is offering two ‘always on’ summer promotion offers which are available now and until the end of August.

Frankie & Benny’s have also recently launched the new kid’s menu featuring some famous faces in partnership with Cartoon Network.  Whether your little one wants to join Batwheels and the gang protecting Gotham City, or Prince Ivandoe and his loyal squire Bert on a quest filled with adventure, Frankie & Benny’s new activity sheets have it all, adding extra fun to mealtimes. 

Frankie & Benny’s new kids menu has more flavour, more goodness and sure to keep fussy diners happy. Treat them to deliciously crispy Omega-3 rich fish fingers, hidden veg pizza or Frankie's classic pasta & meatballs!

The first Always On offer is a weekday deal available Monday to Friday after 7pm allowing guests to have two main courses of pizza, burgers and or pasta dishes for just £20. This will give a saving of up to £15.

Main courses available include the double bacon cheeseburger with fries, and the creamy chicken and ‘nduja fettucine- both solid favourites with Frankie & Benny fans.

The second deal is designed for family and friends dining out at the weekend. Throughout the summer Frankie & Benny’s is offering two for the price of one main meals all day Sunday, saving up to £21.90!

Dishes include the New York BBQ chicken loaded up with bacon, cheese, onion rings and fries, as well the classic Mac & Cheese (with, or without, bacon!)

Frankie & Benny’s £250 weekly prize giveaway terms and conditions: https://www.frankieandbennys.com/terms

Frankie & Benny’s Always On terms and conditions: https://www.frankieandbennys.com/terms

https://www.frankieandbennys.com