How to get the kids to pitch in with family dinners

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By FUSILLI1OF4
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Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

The kids are growing up and the infamous question "Hey Mom, what's for dinner?" haunts you daily. Did you ever notice that no matter what is for dinner you can never keep everyone happy? Follow these steps to get your teenagers active in the kitchen and complain less. Once they are involved more in the kitchen they understand the hard work put into preparation and cooking they will complain less and you may even get a break!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Something to do with all that free time!

Step 1

Create the house rules. For example: Cooks don't have to clean up, or maybe take out the trash. Start a Family Recipe Book. Get everyone involved in the new cooking dinner family activity.
Step 2

First hold a "family meeting" where everyone can add their input and ideas to help this be more fun. You can discuss if the kids will work together on their night to cook a family dinner or alone.

Suggest and discuss recipes or allow them to surprise you.
Step 3

Allow the kids to cook dinner once a week anything that they want. They will have to create, plan and collaborate their own menu, shop for the ingredients and cook it.

Since they are cooking you will have to set the table and clean up--house rules!

No complaining only constructive criticism is welcome.

Tips & Warnings

Allowing teenagers to assist in family dinners once a week or how ever often you decide will show them you trust them and allow them to be creative and appreciative of what Mom is making for dinner!
This can teach siblings to work together, be creative and take pride in what they are doing.
Cooking improves only with practice and trial and error and will help them to be adults for when they spread their wings and leave the nest.
Be sure your child is old enough and mature and knowledgeable in how to use a stove or oven.
Be sure your child knows to always use oven mitts and pot holders and to take safety precautions when cooking.
Teach your teenager how to avoid oil from splattering, put out a grease fire, and general kitchen safety.
Teach your child to always wash their hands and all surfaces to avoid salmonella and cross contamination.