How to Make Baking Fun for Kids

Baking can be a fun activity to do with the kids. Not only can baking be a lot of fun, but the kitchen is a great place for kids to gain confidence, learn new skills, and build childhood memories. And of course, eating the end product can be the most fun of all.

Instructions

1. Pick a recipe that is easy for kids to do. Baking cookies is usually one of the most fun activities because it involves using dough. Kids love to roll cookie dough into balls, cut cookies using cookie cutters, and frost them after the baking is done.

2. Keep the kids actively involved. If they end up standing around watching you bake, it isn't much fun. Assign them tasks that are appropriate for their age and then give them the freedom to do it. Measuring, stirring, and getting out the ingredients are things kids of most any age can do.

3. Understand that accidents happen and don't get upset when they do. Never ridicule or yell at a child that measures an ingredient wrong or spills the oil on the counter when pouring. Patience is important to keep the baking fun.

4. Take advantage of those teachable moments. Explain how things work. Teach math while learning measuring. Just be sure to keep it fun.

5. Taste the batter or the dough after it is mixed. Remember, it is hard for kids to wait through the entire baking process before getting to sample their masterpiece.

6. Tell others that the kids made the dessert when it comes time to eat. Let them feel the pride over creating such a wonderful tasting food. Praise them for their efforts and tell them it is the best cookie you have ever tasted, even if it came out a little too salty.

Tips & Warnings

• Use an old towel to make an apron for your kid to wear while baking. Fabric paint can be used so he can decorate his apron himself.

• Always remember safety in the kitchen. Make sure you do the cutting and put the baked goods into and out of the hot oven.

Resources

• Great recipes for baking with kids.
• More kids recipes.