Monday Moms: Kids helping in the kitchen

This can be a very stressful time of year! When it comes to Thanksgiving, we all want to have the perfect meal. But, experts say we should always remember that these holidays are for our kids, too. So, they suggest including our kids in the planning, the cooking, the shopping -- everything for the big Turkey Day event.

Robin Lea is a Mom and the owner of Bayside Cafe in Mobile. She regularly includes kids in the kitchen. She says we can start at the very beginning when we're making the menu for the big day. And, each step along the way creates a holiday your little ones will remember. Robin explains, "traditions are wonderful. You really really can start wonderful, meaningful traditions by having children help you. They get to choose things: last year, my favorite was this salad. Can we try something new this year? So, they feel involved in the process and they fee like it's theirs, too."

OK, so how do we go about getting our kids involved from the get-go? Start with the menu. Ask your kids what side dishes they want to have with the turkey, or whatever you do for Thanksgiving. Take them shopping with you. Let them get the ingredients. Let them unpack the groceries when you get home. And, then, get them cooking! Robin says even our littlest chefs can stir and mix and spread, even crack eggs. Remember, kids are very tactile and cooking lets them explore and feel their way through. And, when they eat that finished product, they feel ownership and a sense of pride. Robin says we can get our little ones in the kitchen right away. Put them in a bouncy seat and read -- or even sing -- the recipes to them. Just whatever you can to make them a part of the whole thing. Because when our kids are involved, they enjoy it more. And, we will, too! It kind of takes the pressure off you, and makes it a family event.

For more ideas on ways to involve our kids in the kitchen, click here or here .

Robin actually teaches cooking classes for little ones. The classes start with pre-school age children. For more information and a calendar of the classes, click here .

Bayside Diner
5212 Cottage Hill Rd # E
Mobile, AL 36609-4280
(251) 378-8591

Have fun getting ready for the big meal!