Establishing Practical Life Routines Around Mealtimes

So you’ve seen all of those people on Instagram whose kids seem to help out A LOT in the kitchen — cooking, wielding sharp knives, pouring drinks without spilling, etc. You see the value in allowing your child to be more independent, but how do you get there?

One way to get started with allowing for more independence in practical life tasks around mealtimes is to think about what your current routines are and how to make them more accessible for children. That might be as simple as providing a step stool or allowing for more time to do those tasks, or it might involve hunting down some child-sized accessories and rearranging your cupboards. Sometimes just moving things to where your child can reach them is enough to spark their interest! As we do when we present anything new to our children, you need to model the way you want your child to carry these new tools: with two hands, walking slowly, etc.

What are a few practical life routines around mealtimes that you can begin inviting your child to participate in?

Helping with meal prep

chopping veggies — I like this crinkle cutter for kids!
gathering ingredients or pots/pans that are down low
taste testing — this is a great way to add food exposure, especially if you have picky eater
provide a way to each the counter — a helper tower, a step stool, or add a small table to the space that your child can work at while you’re at the counter
have a drawer in the fridge for self-serve items like fruits, veggies, cheese, yogurt

Setting the table

keep everything they need down low
prompt them to think out what they need to get for themselves: “You have a plate! What else will you need to eat spaghetti?”
have a milk pitcher or water source they can access — we like these small pitchers
practice with a place setting shelf work
have a designated spot for washcloths or some other way to wipe up spills