Food $ense program is working on bring mom’s dad’s sons and daughters into the kitchen to cook family meals together.

Not only does cooking from scratch save money, but it give parents a chance to teach kids about nutrition, along with teaching valuable skills for the future. Cooking together as a family team helps let go of the stresses of the day, lets you catch up on each other’s lives and make some fun memories.

Ideas to get you started.

Have fun cooking as a family.  Make an apron for everyone and decorate with a theme.

1. Go over the budget.

2. Start cooking with recipes that your whole family will love.

3. Make a menu and shopping list than shop for food together

4. Keep the phone, television, computer and radio turned off

5. Share responsibilities.

6. Keep conversation to topics that everyone can enjoy

7. When kids are given simple tasks, like spreading jam on bread using a blunt knife, it lets them practice using their eyes and hands and helps improve their motor skills and coordination. By completing each task, the kids will gain more confidence and they will become independent because they know they can do anything if they put their mind to it.

8. After the kids have completed their tasks; such as cutting vegetables or peeling potatoes, remember to compliment them for doing their jobs well. We adults love compliments and kids feel the same way too. This will definitely boost their confidence.

9. Children are more likely to eat what they have prepared or cooked. This is a chance for parents to introduce new food to their children who are picky eaters. If they do not like their greens, let them pick a salad recipe and prepare it. Give them options to add things like dried cranberries, mandarin oranges, small goldfish crackers, etc. Make fun, colorful desserts together such as berries with yogurt.

10. Parents cooking with their kids can be a weekly activity. By having our kids help us in the kitchen, they will learn some of the necessary skills to succeed in life.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com