It’s a know fact that most of our holiday time is spent in the kitchen. Often it’s at the expense of spending time with our families. This year why not invite Dad and yes the children into the kitchen to help with all the fun and joy of making those holiday treats.

Believe it or not kids love to cook. It gives them a chance to be a part of a family tradition. Start them out small and let them work up to the turkey and ham. Everyone will have a blast and the kids will feel as if they have helped to put on the feast of a lifetime.

The first step to allowing children in the kitchen is to teach them cleanliness. Teach them how to properly wash their hands and keep plenty of paper towels available. Aprons will also help in protecting clothing. They will love the idea of wearing that Christmas apron while creating their own masterpiece.

The best place to start is with the baking. Biscuits are always a favorite. They can make a mess and not get into trouble. Walk them through it step by step with easy to understand directions.

When it comes to baking most of the work is away from the hot stove or oven. Set them up at the table or at the counter if they can reach. You can be preheating the oven or working at the stove while they prepare batters or dough.

Let the children help you in gathering up the bowls, utensils and ingredients necessary for the recipe. Walk through each step of the process and then let them have it. They will love the freedom it allows them. Just stay close in case they have questions or need assistance.

Children can help with just about anything that goes in the oven. Cookies, cakes, rolls, casseroles and other baked foods are a great place to start your children in their culinary experience.

Let the children help with preparing the meat for your holiday dinner. More than likely they won’t be ready to carry it to oven or check on it as it bakes but they can help to make glaze, add seasonings and sprinkle in nuts and marshmallows on those sweet potatoes.

Your kids will get the hang of baking and stove top cooking with a little assistance. The holidays are a relaxing and jovial time to let your kids begin cooking with you. Teach them the basics of hygiene, preparation and creating so they will want to cook all of the time.