A fun activity for your toddler

Your child probably has some good practice under his belt with cooking imaginary food. Imagine how excited he'll be to do some "real" cooking! This activity might be a bit messy, but your little one will be thrilled to work with something he can really eat.


Skills developed: fine motor skills, imagination

What you'll need: a large pot, a mixing spoon, plastic measuring cups, a non-breakable bowl, and a cup or two of O-shaped cereal

Have your child kneel on a safe chair at the kitchen table. Show him how to use the measuring cups to scoop the cereal out of the bowl, pour it into the pot, and stir it with the spoon. After your brief demonstration, step back and let him be head chef.

When the cereal is "ready," suggest that he serve some to you, then himself. After that, he may decide to cook more and serve seconds.

When he's ready to move on to something else, explain that cooks always clean up after they're done, and see if he'll help you sweep up the cereal that has inevitably fallen onto the floor. Bon appétit!