This post contains affiliate links at no cost to you.
There are so many ways that even the youngest toddler can help in the kitchen. I am by no means someone who enjoys cooking/baking/generally being in the kitchen, but these ideas even work for me!
With Nora, we started offering food when she was 6-months-old at her weaning table. From that time, we have given her a glass plate, cup and silverware. This has given her the opportunity to practice the same skills she sees us doing as we eat. Nora uses a spoon. For her, it has just been a natural part of learning how to eat.
Food Preparation
- Peeling sliced bananas
- Pulling apple slices from cutter
- Slicing chunks of banana (or other soft food like cheese or fruit)
- Washing fruit
- Spreading butter or peanut butter on toast
- Mixing prepared ingredients (while baking bread, muffins or cookies, for example)
- Pouring pre-measured ingredients (again while baking)
- Cracking eggs
- Placing ingredients into a blender or mixer
- Slicing eggs or strawberries
- Kneading dough
- Scooping batter or dough
Food Service
- Placing food onto plate
- Putting a place mat on a table
- Bringing empty plates/cups/silver wear to table
- Carrying plates of food to table
- Pouring water into cup
Clean Up
- Washing hands
- Wiping hands/face
- Wiping table
- Bringing dishes to sink
- Wiping counters
- Washing dishes
- Throwing away food or garbage
- Sweeping floors
- Putting away groceries or items used