Food Preparation and Self-Esteem

Food Preparation builds self-esteem and allows children to feel more independent. Children with a healthy self-esteem grow into confident adults. But, self-esteem is not something we can give to our children; it must be developed.

Completing every day tasks for themselves is the best way to allow it to develop. A simple way to get started is to purchase a small spreading knife and allow your children to spread their own peanut and butter and jelly sandwiches. Watch their self-esteem grow as they begin to realize just how capable they truly are!

Introduce Children to the Wonders of the Kitchen

Children of all ages, both boys and girls, will benefit from spending time in the kitchen. Take the opportunity to teach them vocabulary of kitchen tools and gadgets. Allow them to fetch utensils and stir ingredients and show them the proper way to measure ingredients like sugar and flour.

Baking with children allows them to develop both large and small motor skills. They love stirring, cracking eggs, scooping, pouring and kneading. A children’s cookbook with pictures and clear steps will make baking both fun and easy. Children gain a sense of ordering and sequencing, as well as a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem from completing this “grown-up” task on their own.

The use of a bake mix will reduce the number of steps and helps hold their attention. Carefully show your children each step and always be nearby for assistance. Yes! They will probably make a mess. An egg may be dropped, flour may be spilled and clothes may get dirty, but the first time they grin at you and say, “I DID IT!” will make it all worth while.
PrairieOrchid.com