Preschool Cooking Ideas

When children help out in the kitchen, they can learn and have fun at the same time.

Cooking with preschoolers can be both fun and educational. The educational part comes into play when teaching them how to measure different ingredients and safety in the kitchen. Cooking with children also opens the avenue of introducing new foods, healthy alternatives and healthy eating. Cooking with preschoolers can also be messy, but you can teach them the importance of keeping a clean work space and kitchen by having them clean up as you go along or when you are finished.

Pizzas

Pizza is one of the foods most preschoolers love. Have them make their own individual pizzas -- either making your own dough or using pre-made dough -- by teaching them to roll out the dough. Let them create fun shapes with the dough or make traditional circles, then spoon on and spread the sauce. Shredding cheese is another step they can help with. Allow them to add a selection of toppings to their pizzas, creating smiley faces, shapes or the first letter of their name. Encourage them to try at least one new food in their topping choices. Putting them in the oven and removing them is probably better left to an adult.

Cupcakes

Cupcakes are a good teaching lesson for preschoolers. Because they require several different ingredients, it helps to teach about measuring and following a recipe. Have each child help in mixing the ingredients, then use a round ice cream scoop to transfer the batter to the cupcake holders. Make the frosting while the cupcakes bake and add food coloring to make unique frosting colors. Let the children frost and decorate their own cupcakes. Use a variety of toppings such as sprinkles, chocolate candy pieces, jelly beans and fresh pieces of fruit.

Chicken Fingers

Kids will have a blast pounding chicken cutlets to tenderize and flatten them. Because chicken requires special handling, it is best for an adult to do all parts that require touching the chicken. Place one chicken breast in a plastic zipper bag for each child. Show them how to gently pound the chicken with a tenderizing mallet or roll with a rolling pin. Cut the chicken into long strips and using tongs or a fork, dip in a slightly beaten egg, then roll in bread crumbs and place on a cookie sheet. Bake in the oven until no longer pink inside. Serve with homemade dipping sauces.

Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs are easy enough for preschoolers to make with some help and supervision. Help them crack eggs, and let them scramble them in the bowl using a whisk. Add ingredients such as shredded cheese, peppers or diced potatoes. Show them how to spray a frying pan with non-stick cooking spray and pour the egg mixture into the heated pan. Help them cook the eggs until they are done. Teach them how to use a toaster to make toast to accompany the eggs.

References

• Kids Health: Cooking With Preschoolers

Resources

• Family Fun: Kids' Recipes