We have always spoken about how important it is for parents to spend quality time with their kids, doing different activities with them. Especially in this age where “your time” can be easily replaced with video games. So, instead of letting video games make more memories with your kids in their childhood; claim that time yourselves. You do not need to buy games or perform complex activities with them. Something as simple as having a bake-date or cooking a simple dish with them in the kitchen, with the ingredients available in your pantry will do the job just as good! As you already know, cooking is a life skill too, in today’s world.
Today, with so many added responsibilities that come with parenting, we forget the simple and small things that matter greatly- time. Are giving your kids your time? Are you listening to what they have to say? Take some time to analyze and make sure you are not missing out on the growing years of your kids.
Now, one such activity that you could do every week or every month is having a cooking date with your kids! It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive or grand- A simple pasta dish would be great!
Here’s Why Cooking Should Be An Activity To Do With Your Child:
Quality Family Time
Cooking is the best activity to do along with the kiddos. They love getting their hands dirty and having tasks to actively participate in. You also get a break from all the stress and work deadlines and spend some quality fun time with the kids. It could be simple recipes or baking, but whatever- the kitchen is the best place to make some memories!
Following A Recipe Teaches Them Math
It’s not only all fun and games. Getting them to follow the recipe teaches them math too! For example: 1/2 cup flour, 1 Tbls sugar, 3/4 cup milk, 3 potatoes, 5 curry leaves etc. This stimulates their mind. They are applying functions of counting, division and measurements.
Understanding A Recipe Improves Reading Comprehension
While they read the recipe, they are simultaneously thinking about it in their minds. They are understanding the instructions given. This improves their comprehension skills.
Cooking Food Demonstrates Chemistry Principles
Cooking also demonstrates chemistry principles. For example: When yeast makes the dough rise, water boiling and vaporizing, egg frying on contact with hot oil, etc.
Helps Kids Appreciate Their Parents
Cooking is an art too. The more kids cook and learn about the time and effort it takes, they’ll tend to appreciate their parents who cook for them everyday. They will also appreciate that their parents took out time to cook with them.
Do you agree? Share this with your fellow-parents too!
Tanya Lemos
Dr Ipshita Suyash
Rushita Sheth
Mansi Zaveri
