Kids in the Kitchen

Benefits of letting children help prepare meals:

• Children feel they are making an important contribution
• New words and concepts are introduced
• Counting and measuring are learned in a fun way
• Opportunity for children to practice hand-eye coordination
• Children learn health and safety practices

Remember, all food preparation involving young children requires careful supervision by an adult at all times.

Adapted from Dakota Dog Digs Food, Fitness and Fun,
a USDA Team Nutrition grant project publication of the North Dakota Dept of Public Instruction

Make Baked Apples With Kids

Baked apples are delicious, warm, and nourishing - especially on a cold winter day. They're easy to cook in the microwave or in a traditional oven. Choose any variety of apple - let children pick their own from a variety of colors, shapes, types. Cut each apple in half and cut out the apple core. Let children sprinkle the inside with cinnamon and a little sugar. Put the apples skin side down in a baking dish or microwave-safe container. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes or cook 3-5 minutes in a microwave. Let the apples cool to room temperature before eating.

Adapted from NFSMI What's Cooking?

Make Tortilla Roll-Ups With Kids

½ Roll-Up provides 2 ½ oz Meat/Meat Alternate & 1 Grains/Bread serving

13 8" whole wheat flour tortillas
3 ¼ cup shredded Jack cheese
6 cups diced cooked chicken or turkey
2 cups mild salsa, chunky
2 Tbsp minced onions (optional)
½ cup red bell pepper, seeded, minced (optional)

• Kids can do:

  • Sprinkle ¼ cup shredded cheese on each tortilla.
  • Combine turkey, salsa, onions and red pepper in a bowl. Spread ½ cup mixture on each tortilla. Roll up like a jellyroll.

• Adults can do:

  • Place all 13 roll-ups in oven-proof baking dish or pan, cover with foil.
  • Bake 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
  • Cut each tortilla in half to serve.

Lunch Menu idea for 3-5 year olds
½ tortilla roll-up
Shredded romaine lettuce
Apple or pear wedges
Milk

Adapted from NFSMI Mealtime Memo For Child Care