I figured it would be fun for my daughter to help make dinner. It mostly involved me standing by and feeling anxious as she neared the fire.
The solution involved more than just waiting it out. The solution was giving her an actual job that involved something like, uh hot tearing, lettuce smashing, stirring the bowl and other things that are useful, not just busy work. She is extremely dedicated to the smashing. Everything here has a job like that built in, approximately sized to how old they are, and the slider up top sorts that. The knives are obviously staying with you.
Contents
- 1) Soft Taco Bar
- 2) Personal Pita Pizzas
- 3) Sausage Dinner
- 4) Tomato Soup And Grilled Cheese
- 5) Pancake Dinner
- 6) Quesadilla Bar
- 7) Pasta With Veggie Sauce
- 8) Snack Plate Dinner
- 9) Loaded Baked Potatoes
- 10) Mini Meatballs
- 11) Chicken Salad Crostini
- 12) Veggie Fried Rice
- 13) Sushi Bowls
- 14) Sheet Pan Nachos
- 15) Chicken Caesar Wraps
- 16) English Muffin Melts
- 17) Mac And Cheese
- 18) Baked Potato Bar
- 19) Mini Pita Tostadas
- 20) One-Pot Buttered Noodles
- 21) Sloppy Joes
- 22) Chicken Salad Bowl
- 23) Fish Sticks And Dip
- 24) Mini Burgers
- 25) Veggie Omelets
- 26) Pesto Pasta
- 27) Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches
- 28) Chili And Cornbread
- 29) Chicken And Veggie Skewers
- 30) Fridge Frittata
- 31) Pasta Salad Dinner
- 32) Dip Dinner
- 33) Tortilla Pizzas
- 34) Ramen Bowls
1) Soft Taco Bar
The assembly of tacos gives children creative control as they can build a variety of combinations. Children love rinsing the lettuce, and cheese, or pretending to be line workers and taco workers assembling them. I like to use a sheet pan to keep the work area clean and contained to one area. Everyone gets to enjoy the fun tacos, and the parents have to deal with the warm taco ingredients.
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2) Personal Pita Pizzas
If you think rolling out pizza dough is an emotional commitment, then these mini pizzas are your answer. They kids can spread the pizza sauce and sprinkle the cheese, and they will eat anything they have created. No matter how weird it is, I have seen a plate of a pizza with an olive face and as strange as I thought it was, that plate returned to the clean side of the room.
3) Sausage Dinner
Children can be great chefs and in this case they would be cooking dinner ‘on a pan.’ They might take some presliced peppers and onions, put them in a bowl with some olive oil and salt, mix it, and spread it on the pan. The task gets even simpler if you buy fully cooked sausage. It will take you just a couple of minutes to get ready. When served in rolls or on rice, it will appear like you put in a lot more effort than you actually did.
4) Tomato Soup And Grilled Cheese
What we find entertaining, children view as a ‘real job.’ They’ll take the role of butter spread-er while you supervise the frying pan, and cheese stack-er, and they’ll measure out the milk (or water) and stir the canned soup to combine. This boosts their confidence and one child stated proudly “I’m the butter manager.” There’s also apple slices to cap off your day.
5) Pancake Dinner
No matter the kind of day I’ve had, eating breakfast foods at dinner cheers me up. Kids can measure flour, whisk batter, and if you want a bit more sweetness, you can mash a banana into the bowl.
As long as your child is younger and not old enough to be responsible around the heat, it is the parents that do the flipping.
Serve with scrambled eggs. For protein, or don’t: some nights are about getting fed.
6) Quesadilla Bar
Simplicity is the name of the game when it comes to cooking with children, and that is what makes quesadillas perfect. The kids get to make their own creations with cheese, beans, corn and shredded chicken. I prefer to make all of the fillings before hand because I don’t want a tortilla to blow up like a cheesy volcano in the pan. Also, everyone gets to pick a fun dip to go with their quesadilla.
7) Pasta With Veggie Sauce
Changing the name of the sauce to “confetti sauce” demotes the celebration from a celebration to a non-celebration and the person of interest to a non-person of interest. Kids can rinse veggies and help stir jarred marinara while you sauté. If chopping vegetables is an issue, there’s no need to heroically tackle this obstacle because you can get pre-diced mirepoix or frozen mixed veggies. Throwing pasta and sauce into a big bowl can be a bit fun and harmlessly entertaining.
8) Snack Plate Dinner
Some evenings I try to cook and it feels like I’m writing a book while jumping on a trampoline. At least dinner being a snack plate keeps everyone sane. Children can wash and arrange vegetables, portion hummus. Kids can portion out toppings into small bowls and stack the pita like a mini edible skyline. Although It may not have the same bragging rights as the cookbook, it can be pretty accurate.
9) Loaded Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes are a customizable meal. While the potatoes are baking, children can wash the potatoes, puncture them with a fork, and prepare toppings. It’s best to keep the toppings simple and include cheese, steamed broccoli, beans, leftover chili, etc. The more toppings you have, the better. You won’t need to put in much effort to make the table appear full.
10) Mini Meatballs
Children enjoy taking part in the meatball making activity because the activity is tactile involving squishy and gross materials. They’re able to measure out the breadcrumbs, crack an egg (and expect a shell cameo), and roll small balls while you handle the oven. Given the time needed, the systematic nature of the baking process compared to stovetop frying is easier to understand.This can be paired with spaghetti or used to make small rolls for meatball subs.
11) Chicken Salad Crostini
This is what I prepare when I want dinner to feel “assembled” rather than “cooked.” Kids can… shred rotisserie chicken with clean hands, mix in some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, and toss in grapes or diced pickles if that’s their thing. It appears somewhat more refined to permit them to season with their own salt and pepper, regardless of whether it is served on crackers or in a sandwich or wrap.
12) Veggie Fried Rice
Use leftover rice if you can. Fresh rice can become a little gluey and moody. The children can measure soy sauce, crack eggs into the bowl, and whisk the other ingredients together. While you handle the hot frying pan, the kids will get to do all of the fun things.
There is a unique pleasure to putting on a freshly ironed shirt, and there is the same joy in the simplicity of frozen peas and carrots. When working in a team, be the first to taste, adjust and make changes. No example in a lecture is fully explained.
13) Sushi Bowls
Parents can be assured that their children will be safe and enjoy their sushi as there are no sharp or raw sushi ingredients. Adults will cook the fish; kids will do the rest. Build bowls with rice, cucumber, avocado and some sauce (mayo + sriracha if your family can handle the heat). In addition, there is another innovative approach to include seaweed snacks. Family members will complain less as they will all be able to construct their ‘ideal bite.’
14) Sheet Pan Nachos
Kids can layer chips, sprinkle cheese and toss the beans like they’re feeding a dragon. While the grown-ups keep an eye on the oven and hot toppings, the children can focus on the cold toppings. Try to keep a close eye on the chips so that you don’t end up with one sad, unloved chip sitting in the corner. You can make it “healthy” by going with black beans too. Nachos usually go quickly so I typically make ‘one more pan than I think I’ll need.’
15) Chicken Caesar Wraps
Wraps are great because they look like effort. In a large bowl, children will combine the romaine lettuce which they can chop (using child-safe knives) or tear, with the dressing. There might be slight differences in the wrapping, but that adds to the charm of the project. Typically, kids enjoy croutons because they bring an enticing crunch.
16) English Muffin Melts
Thank you for your comparison; I appreciate it. I understand how the rough pizza analogy works. With younger kids, it is more accessible because they get to choose a sauce and then cheese and a few toppings. The older kids, however, get proper toppings unless they go for the maximalist art project. I like how quick the baking is done for those really hungry dinner times. A more sophisticated option could include a small salad or even some miniature carrots.
17) Mac And Cheese
Mac and Cheese is an already kid friendly food; adding broccoli is just negotiation. Children can also measure the pasta and add (or “sprinkle”) cheese. It is also possible to assist with the tree planting in the bowl to help start a miniature edible forest. If anyone does not want a piece of broccoli, feel free to leave it. This has nothing to do with your parenting. We cannot behave in dining areas like we are in a court case.
18) Baked Potato Bar
The cousin potato bar is even more filling with toppings. Kids will be able to self-serve (when it cools!) chili and theme park style toppings. Chili from a can is good, but homemade is better. Leftover chili is the real hero here, and it’s a pleasure to see people scraping the bowls.
19) Mini Pita Tostadas
Children will enjoy creating their own pitas, and to start, you can bake the pitas yourself. They can do a layer of beans all over the pita (it’s easy, and if it gets messy that’s ok), and then top it with cheese, lettuce, and some sauce. You can also entice them into doing it by mentioning the taco-style crisp satisfaction that will follow.
20) One-Pot Buttered Noodles
We would like the presentation and the food to be simple, warm, and inviting. Little ones will have the opportunity to measure out pasta and peas and may also partake in a bit of snow (counter snowdrift is forgiven) parmesan grating. Please parents, season with caution. There are pepper shakers on the table, so you may add some at the end. Some specific levels will probably have a quiet calm sea zone.
21) Sloppy Joes
Kids can help measure ketchup, mustard, and spices while browning the meat (or heating the lentils for the vegetarian option). Residents of houses that have typically been very guarded about new experiences might notice that the sauce has a flavor profile that is sweet and savory that many will be familiar with. This is part of the process, so prepare to get your hands a little messy. Place a few damp paper towels near something like a spot where a stage manager would do their job.
22) Chicken Salad Bowl
Children are capable of washing, peeling, and tearing ingredients. With the encouragement of, “let’s make it rainbow!” they will be eager to add bell peppers. You can do some minimal stovetop cooking and prepare a rotisserie chicken. From a scientific point of view, it is also good to allow children to shake the dressing in a jar.
23) Fish Sticks And Dip
I understand why so many families may consider frozen fish sticks an essential part of the weeknight meal routine. Children can assemble a simple dip as fish stick sauce using mayo or yogurt and relish, with optional additions of diced pickles and lemon juice. With the addition of some peas or sliced cucumbers, you are ready to eat. When it comes to fish, the critical thing to remember is that it must be served hot and fresh, and definitely not sitting out.
24) Mini Burgers
Children can prepare and wash their hands (and pull their sleeves up!) for making patties and setting up the toppings in a buffet-style format. The frypan and grill pan can be used by parents and guardians only. No adults on hot grease! Sliders will cook quickly so that your hunger does not become a hangry meltdown! We will have ketchup and pickles, as well as one ‘adventurous’ topping for the brave ones.
25) Veggie Omelets
Children feel a real sense of accomplishment by cracking an egg into each bowl and whisking them until the eggs are frothy. They can also sprinkle cheese and add pre-cooked vegetables can be added to omelettes. They’re really easy to prepare but will turn on you if you don’t stir the mixture properly. Ultimately, the taste of an omelette does not depend on any additional ingredients. If it’s done correctly, it will always taste like eggs and cheese.
26) Pesto Pasta
This dish can be finished off with pesto. The kids can combine it with the hot pasta and add some halved tomatoes. (Adult chopping is required, or buy them pre-sliced). It is also nice to be accompanied with some parmesan. If you want to temper the strong taste of the pesto, you can add a bit of butter and/or cream.
27) Chicken Parmesan Sandwiches
Use cooked breaded chicken cutlets (store-bought or leftover items) and let the kids do the assembly: sauce, cheese, and bun. Adults are responsible for the broiler so no incidents happen that produce smoke. The stickiness can give the illusion of preparing for a fancy meal. A side salad will complete the bistro experience.
28) Chili And Cornbread
Children experience success when they assist with making the cornbread batter and putting it in the pan. As for the chili, it can be made from scratch in a slow cooker, or it can be used as leftovers. It’s a mystery. I enjoy allowing kids to choose their own toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and scallions. Be careful as there is spicy chili.
29) Chicken And Veggie Skewers
Skewers feel festive, but you can bake them on a sheet pan and skip outdoor grilling entirely. Only adults should deal with raw chicken, considering the risks involved. Children can be given the task of threading chunks of onion and bell pepper. After that, you can put on a light glaze of olive oil, lemon, and a bit of honey and bake until done. When paired with rice, you’ll watch the skewers disappear.
30) Fridge Frittata
Although frittatas can be made from what you may consider leftovers, they can be viewed as high class. While you soften the vegetables in the pan, the kids can break some eggs into a bowl and stir in some cheese. Then, you add the mixture to the pan and place it in the oven. And that’s it! No need to flip it and personally, I consider a slight brown edge to be a bonus.
31) Pasta Salad Dinner
I like the dinner idea with the pasta salad. It creates the image of an indoor picnic. The children like making the salad because they wash the vegetables, add the dressing and stir everything together (It really is a two handed job!) If you want to make it more substantial feel free to add cheese, ham cubes or chick peas. It also gives me an I’ve packed a lunch for tomorrow type of feeling.
32) Dip Dinner
This idea is great for keeping things simple but versatile. Kids can help with the dips, pitas, and crunchy sides (carrots, crackers, etc). It will look like a restaurant quality meal once the oven is preheated and it’s very easy, but people love this meal.
33) Tortilla Pizzas
If you want to make a fast pizza, you can make one using a tortilla. Just make sure not to use too much sauce and cheese, or else the tortilla will become soggy. You really want to keep each ingredient layer thin. Children love to take the kitchen scissors and cut the pizza. When the pizza is done, you will see that the edges of the tortilla are curling up and are a light brown.
34) Ramen Bowls
Instant ramen can be a good dinner option. It only requires boiling water. Children can help by adding frozen peas, corn, or even shredded carrots to the mixture. They can also help by peeling the egg (if that’s a step you have done beforehand). Use caution when it comes to the seasoning packet if your family tries to avoid high sodium meals. For added broth and lime to stretch the soup add broth. It is easy, looks like you spent time on it, and is warm.
