20+ Activities for Kids to Help in the Kitchen

If you have kids, getting them involved in the kitchen has many benefits. It may take twice as long to make a recipe, but getting your kids involved in the kitchen helps you with meal prep, gives your kids something hands-on to do and encourages kids to eat a wider variety of healthy foods. Kids who help prepare and cook foods are more likely to actually eat them! In addition to those benefits, the quality time making a recipe with kids and the laughter and memories that ensue are worth the extra time and mess! 

Here are some activities based on ages to get your kids helping in the kitchen:

2-4 years old

• Washing produce 
• Pick cilantro or parsley leaves
• Tear greens or lettuce 
• Snap green beans, snap peas and snow peas
• Sprinkle salt and herbs
• Name and count foods 
• Mix batter
• Add ingredients to a bowl, blender, food processor, etc. 

4-6 years old

• Cut soft foods with a dull knife (or a knife designed for kids)
• Help make sandwiches, wraps and salads 
• Crack and whisk eggs
• Scrub potatoes
• Measure and pour liquids 
• Set a kitchen timer

6-10 years old 

• Use a garlic press 
• Use a can opener
• Thread food on skewers 
• Peel vegetables and fruits

12+ years old 

• Follow simple step by step recipes 
• Slice and chop vegetables
• Bake and microwave foods
• Boil pasta
• Steam vegetables 

Don’t Forget Basic Kitchen Safety

• Always cook with adult supervision
• Always wash your hands in warm, soapy water before handling food
• Always clean all counter tops and work surfaces before cooking

Whether it is preparing their own snacks, helping cook the family dinner, or simply helping mom or dad make a batch of chocolate chip cookies, don’t hesitate to get your kids involved in the kitchen. Who knows, maybe one day they’ll be bringing you breakfast in bed! 

Looking for additional ways to get your kids involved in the kitchen? Schedule a complimentary call to get started working with a RESULTS dietitian.