Isn’t it strange how quickly the world has changed? In less than two months, many of us have gone from packing school lunches and planning summer vacations to a world of juggling work commitments, homeschool curriculum, and of course keeping the whole family happy and fed! Though it feels pretty crazed most of the time, we’re doing our best to step back and really appreciate this time we get to spend together as a family. And for us, there’s been no better place to do that than in the kitchen. Here, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite, family-friendly recipes where the kids can help cook while simultaneously learning math, science, and kitchen skills they’ll take with them the rest of their lives. Yes, it’s going to get messy, but isn’t that what life is all about?
Easy Turkey Chili
Chili is a family favorite in our house, and we love how this recipe is easy enough even the smallest kids can help. While you cook the meat, put the kids to work measuring the dry spices, then have them organize a full toppings bar—giving kids a task they have complete control over not only helps build confidence in the kitchen but is a great way to combat picky eating!
Summery Salad Rolls
Salad rolls are another fun one for kids because everyone gets to customize exactly what they want inside each rice paper wrapper! Have the kids help prep an assortment of proteins and veggies, wrap as tight as you can, and dunk in everything from sweet chili sauce to homemade peanut sauce (or even ranch…).
Homemade Bread
If you’ve never made bread before, don’t be intimidated! This recipe for basic sandwich bread is nearly foolproof and mess-proof—you dump the ingredients inside a Ziploc and let the kids smoosh until kneaded, then let rise and bake.
Chex Mix Cookies
The classic chocolate chip cookie gets a semi-savory update thanks to the addition of Chex Mix. Plus, baking is a great way to introduce kids to wet and dry measurements, basic math, and, of course, kitchen clean up.
Vanilla Cake
Make any day one worth celebrating with this simple vanilla cake. It comes together entirely by hand (have the kids count their stirs!) and gets topped with an easy buttercream that calls for little more than butter and powdered sugar.
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