"KID"chen Friendly Ideas
Setting expectations and organizing kid items can encourage independence in the kitchen.
Towering at a stagaring 5 feet tall, the art of placing items lower comes easy! I am a tad of a control freak, so letting go of some control in the kitchen has been hard, but I've seen benefits. Here are some things I've implemented and organized in my kitchen so that my children can become more self sufficient, helpful, and (cross fingers) independent.
The moment I moved into my house and began orgainzing the kitchen, the perfect little area screamed, "Kid stuff here!" So, I went with it. I also make sure we have stool handy. Funny enough, the stool we have in our kitchen is the same stool I used as a child (and still use today)!
Cups, Plates, Bowls, Utensils and Stuff
The cabinet we use is equipt with a pullout drawer so it's perfect for reaching cups in the back. Below the cups, I have plates and bowls. I happened to have this metal stand usually used for items in a pantry that serves as a shelf so that bowls and plates can be stacked separately.
This drawer is used for utensils, lids, and miscellaneous items. I've used small baskets to create 4 compartments. 1. Forks and Knives 2. Spoons 3. Plastic utensils that can be lost or tossed (travel or lunch boxes). 4. Small lids, medicine droppers, and small items. I place any other lids along the side. You may ask about straws, I don't like washing them so I try to steer clear of purchasing anything with a straw that if lost, the cup becomes worthless. I do purchase disposible straws (stored low in pantry).
The Pantry
I keep the bottom shelf designated for the kids with a “Mom-Approved Snack” basket along with the cereal. The shelf above has another basket for any bagged items needing clips and occasionally eaten snacks. Any other treats/cookies are stored up high. I also place my son’s lunch box at the very bottom (below cereal) for easy retrieval. In the basket on the door there is a cylinder can used for straws.
Refrigerator
We also have items within reach for the kids in the fridge. Fruits, Veggies, and
Cheese Sticks are in lower drawers and the bottom shelf on door is for any item other items that need to stay cold (yogurts, smoothies). If they are having one of these items as part of thier meal or if I'm cooking and ask for an item they can reach for then they can get it themselves.
Little Helpers
My kiddos generally enjoy hanging out (aka nagging) me in the kitchen, so I put them to work. I have really tried hard to allow them to become participants in the kitchen with meal prep to clean up. Which has forced me to say "yes to a mess" as they begin learning to spread, pour, measure, and yes... cut! We have a couple rules: 1. No toys beyond the kitchen entry, 2. No sharp knives without an adult, and 3. Help out or get out.
Before Meals
My older son enjoys helping with adding ingredients, stirring, or just standing on a stool chating (I love that). My daughter is still our young one in training so we distract or she plays with tupperware (gotta choose your battles) Both kids are great at getting their plates out, choosing a cup, and getting utensils. I've even seen some teamwork!
During Meal: Prayers first then we eat and don't say you don't like it until you try it!
After Meals
While I clean up my daughter, I always give her a plain paper towel to wipe her own tray before I do the actual cleaning. My son clears his table, plate, cup, utensils into sink and tosses any trash. I also allow him to spray cleaner on his table: 2-3 sprays is just right, wipe with paper towel, toss towel, push in chairs, and put the spray back up high (so little one can't reach it). Took some training but, has made my life easier!
My children seem to function better when they have a purpose/job (I think we all do). My daughter has even taken to handing me the clean silverware from the dishwasher! Both my kids can easily help, retrieve items, put away things and clean up after themselves because everything they may need is reachable and accessible. For right now, this works for our family, makes life easier, hopefully encourages independence, and has created some great memories!
