Sure, including kids in preparing meals and baked goods can add time and mess, but at the end of it you get to enjoy a tasty meal or treat together. Time in the kitchen also gives kids the chance to learn a few things. Here are just a few examples:
- Math. You learn to count. You learn that you can divide a cup into fourths — or thirds. You learn what it means to halve a recipe.
- Science. Baking is a science experiment! What happens when you mix all these things together — and then put them in the oven? What about when you remove an ingredient? What does that tell you about why it is included in the recipe?
- Reading. What important skill do you need to follow a recipe? Reading, of course! Reading in a real-life context helps kids understand what they’re reading better.
- Following directions. Following every step — in order — makes a real difference. Kids learn why this is so important when they follow a baking recipe.
- Problem solving. Made a mistake? No need to panic! Just stop a moment and think about how you can solve that problem. Maybe there’s a creative way to save those cookies.
- Patience. Baking teaches your child that the best things are worth waiting for.
For more tips about baking visit homebaking.org.
