Festive family dinners

These end-of-year holidays are the perfect opportunity to get together in the kitchen and make delicious meals with the help of the little ones in the house.

Besides being fun, cooking with children during the holidays brings significant benefits for their development.

Susan Bowermannutrition expert, details 7 main aspects which accompany this experience:

– Promote respect for healthy food: If parents set a good example with their food choices, their children will most likely follow suit. Prepare healthy menus for dinners with friends, family and loved ones.

– Encourage children to try new foods: Generally, special recipes are prepared at these holiday gatherings which may include different foods from those consumed every day and it is a good opportunity for children to try different tastes and textures. When children are involved in selecting ingredients and preparing food, they are more likely to want to try their creations.

– Increase self-esteem: Children feel pride and independence when they cook. Children like to brag that “I did it!” When children can prepare something themselves and serve it to the family on these special dates, their self-esteem grows.

– Use your creative aspects: As soon as kids have some basic skills and learn to follow recipe directions, you should encourage them to get creative. You can start with a basic and simple recipe. After making their own recipes, many children enjoy creating their own cookbook.

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When planning holiday dinners, involve the little ones in choosing recipes suitable for their age and capabilities. Preparing these special dishes together not only creates unforgettable moments, but also skills that will last a lifetime!

– Encourage family ties: Spending time in the kitchen together can be fun and relaxing for both children and adults.

– Improve motor skills: Allowing your children to engage in activities such as mixing, mixing ingredients, mashing or, for older children, chopping vegetables is great for improving their motor strength, control and hand-eye coordination.

– Increase concentration and attention: Cooking involves following directions and steps correctly to produce a delicious final product. When children cook, they learn to pay attention to every detail. And if you want to eat that snack or food when you’re done cooking, you’ll quickly realize that you have to concentrate!