One of the hallmarks of toddlerhood is an intense desire to do things independently. With this new found independence can come a pretty stubborn desire to do all the things, all the time. Here’s how you can help.
Toddlers particularly love helping in the kitchen. Allowing them to help can not only boost their confidence and make them feel involved, but surprisingly cut down on prep time. Here are five ways to get them involved:
- Dish washing. This practical like activity is a favorite of ours. It involves little to no set up and can occupy toddlers for hours. Seriously!
Washing Tub | Sponges | Brushes |Drying Rack
- Sorting recyclables. We have a large recycling bin that I ordered off of Amazon. Toddlers can easily add bottles, cardboard, and paper to the bin. If you don’t have space for one of the larger bins, you can also use color-coded bags for sorting.
Recycling Bin | Sorting Bags | Recycling Bag
- Sweeping and mopping. You can opt for a child sized set like the one from Melissa and Doug or opt for smaller versions of popular cleaning tools like sticky vacs and Swiffer mops. Using the Swiffer without adding the extension rod makes it the perfect size for toddlers.
Melissa & Doug Cleaning Set | Stick Vacuum | Swiffer Mop
- Meal prepping. You can find a number of child sized kitchen tools online. From knife sets to measuring cups and spoons – you can find it all!
Child-friendly Knife Set | Measuring Cups |Wavy Knife
- Baking. A new favorite of ours. We have started baking breads, cakes, and muffins. You can bake from scratch or save time and buy a store bought mix. Our favorite is the pumpkin bread mix from Trader Joes. Baking is a perfect opportunity to incorporate math concepts like measurement, temperature, and proportions as well.
Bread Pan | Mixing Bowls | Child-friendly Utensils
Check out some of my favorites below. How about you? Do your toddlers help out in the kitchen? Feel free to share below and then head on over to Instagram and join the conversation @polishedplayhouse.com.
Talk to you soon,
Nicole
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