Do your children have a natural curiosity for how you prepare a meal? Can you get them to try new foods and recipes? If the answer is no to either question, try making the whole culinary experience one of teamwork. You'll have fun, and your kids will love spending time with you in the kitchen. We have some unique recipes and projects that will entertain your children during the holidays, and maybe they'll even come away with more appreciation and understanding of what happens in the kitchen.
Presentation can be everything when you're attempting to get children to try new foods. It's best to introduce one new food at a time -- and one with which you can be creative. For example, you can make the food look like faces, animals or whatever you desire. Try any or all of the following suggestions to get your child's attention:
Banana Face
Eyes: Two pineapple slices filled with whipped (or sour) cream and topped with cherry halves and raisins.
Eyebrows: Two orange half-slices.
Ears: Two orange or tangerine sections.
Mouth: A banana sliced in half.
Teeth: Almonds
Nose: A strawberry sliced in half.
Dinosaur Dip
Your children will enjoy picking the bones off this Dinosaur Dip. Use pepper halves for the head and body, fill with dip and add a sliced olive for an eye. Carrots and celery stalks create the neck and legs, radishes and broccoli the joints and white mushrooms the tail.
Peanut-Butter Spider Crackers
This variation on a favorite food -- peanut butter -- is simple and fun. Start with two round crackers spread with peanut butter. Slice carrots for the legs, and top with two dried-cranberry eyes, which you can stick on with nature's glue -- more peanut butter!
Ants on a Log
A fun and familiar standby is Ants on a Log. Start with a celery stalk or pretzel stick; add peanut butter and top with raisins. Simple, tasty and nutritious.
Tip : If veggies are a tough sell, try dips. Don't call them "ranch" or "guacamole," though; refer to them simply as "dips." This is a great way to introduce children to grownup tastes.
RESOURCES :
Kids Cooks: Fabulous Food For The Whole Family
Model: 0913589616
Author: Sarah Williamson, Zachary Williamson
(1992)
Williamson Publishing Company
Charlotte, VT 05445
Email: info@williamsonbooks.com
Complete Idiot's Guide To Cooking With Children
Model: 0028635256
Author: Joan Cirilko
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