Simple Ways Kids Can Help with Holiday Meals

We can help kids learn that preparing holiday meals and hosting others is the entire family’s responsibility. Not only will it teach our children to be good members of a team, but it will boost their confidence and self esteem. Not sure where to start? Below are some simple ways kids can help with holiday meals.

Ways Kids Can Help with Holiday Meals in the Kitchen:

1. Wash produce: even the youngest kids can pull up a stool and run some carrots or apples under the faucet. Give them a towel to help dry the produce and their hands. Cooking up some mashed potatoes? Let kids give them a scrub!
2. Taste tester: A great job for any age! I love to teach kids that a recipe is just a starting point and that it’s very important to taste food before you serve it. That way you can adjust the seasoning to make sure the food you serve tastes really good. At a very young age I start asking my kids to taste things and ask if they think it’s good or if it needs something. This is especially good for more apprehensive or “picky” eaters since they can have some pressure-free exposure before the meal.
3. Grocery shopping and carrying: This is a big task around holiday time, so make sure your kids help too. 
4. Pick a dish to cook!: This is something my kids love to do every year. They choose a dessert and make most of it themselves. They are so proud to serve it to family at the end of the meal and it’s been a great way to learn some new baking skills. Make sure to check out my post, Thanksgiving Recipes to Cook with Kids, for some ideas.

Ways Kids Can Help, not in the kitchen:

1. Be a menu designer: Want to keep kids out of the kitchen because you’re just too busy? Write a list of what you are serving for the meal then ask them to create a beautiful menu to display. Grab some pens, markers, crayons, stickers, and paper. Set up a coloring station on the kitchen floor near by or in a good spot where you can still chat and talk about what they are making. Making a welcome banner or sign saying “Happy Thanksgiving” (or any holiday) is another great project for crafty kids!
2. Make some place cards: Similar to above. This was one of my favorite holiday activities as a kid and now my boys do it too. Index cards folded in half make great place cards. Depending on how old your child(ren) are you can either write the names for them and then they can decorate or you can write a list of names and they can copy them down on the cards. 
3. Fill water glasses: Good job for older kids that want a simple task. Make sure they can carry the water pitcher and show them how to carefully fill glasses beforehand. Make sure they know it’s their important job to be aware and ask if anyone needs more water or another drink throughout the meal.
4. Guest Greeter: Especially social kids will love this job. Have them stand near the door to welcome guests and family to your home. If you live in a cold place, have kids take the coats and talk about where to put them beforehand.
5. Clean up!: No, it’s not fun, but it’s such an important way to teach responsibility. Kids can help clear the table, wash a few dishes, or help put things away. Put on some music, dance, and make it fun!

Need some recipes for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal? Check out my post, Thanksgiving Recipes to Cook with Kids.