Supplies
- Kitchen tools such as bowls, strainers, measuring cups and spoons, spatulas, and whisks
- Items you plan to get rid of from the pantry, like expired protein powder or brewers yeast (lactation cookies, anyone?)
- Other ingredients you can spare like a bit of salt, a spice you never use, some oats, ground flaxseed, etc.
- Water
- A wash tub with a bit of water
- Soap
- Sponge, rag, or scrub brush
How to
The night before MOMents or earlier in the week, collect the supplies you’ll use. Pat yourself on the back for also cleaning out your pantry in this process. In the garage or backyard, set out the items and let your kid(s) be the chef! Let them don aprons to get in character and ask them about their recipes when you’re free. When they’ve finished their creations, stretch the activity further by letting them do the clean up as far as they’re able. Set out a garbage can and let them dump out everything at their own pace and in their own way. Show them the wash station and again, let them do the washing their own way. If a tub of water spells disaster for your kid, give them a soapy rag or sponge instead. Of course, you’ll likely need to rewash the things but you can use this as a chance to encourage their practical skill development. Depending on the age of the child, be sure to keep the risk of choking hazards in mind.
Pro Tips
Consider how some ingredients get sticky when wet, like sugar and flour and maybe leave them out for easier clean-up.
To make cleaning up even easier, a tarp/shower curtain/cardboard could provide a good surface to work on. A grassy spot further from the house works, too, and won’t draw bugs right to your back door if any food gets left behind.
Real Moms. Real Life. 