Since they were little, my kids have always wanted to join me when I've been cooking. I'm sure part of it has to do with spending time with mommy, but they also get a big kick out of starting with a bunch of ingredients and then winding up with something delicious -- a cake, cookies, even a fruit salad. Cooking is a great way to not only bond with your child, but teach them real life skills and even some basic math. And if you've got a picky eater on your hands, getting them to help prepare a meal often is enough impetus for them to eat it.
The thing about cooking with little kids is though, that often the tools that you and I use are far too big for little hands. That's why I like the Fruit and Vegetable Set (compare prices) from Little Chef. The eight-piece set features fully-functioning utensils, including a melon baller, lemon zester and a plastic knife. And even though they are made on a smaller scale, they work the same as one you would buy for yourself.
Do you like to cook with your preschooler?
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Disclosure: A review sample was provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.
Image: PriceGrabber/Curious Chef