Scrubbing a Potato by Jeanne Marie Paynel from voilamontessori.com

As parents, sometimes we may find ourselves feeling more like short order cooks. Even worse, our hungry little customers might grate on our nerves as they anxiously hover around the kitchen, waiting for us as we finish working for them.

In my practice as a parenting coach, I often hear clients ask me what to do when their children get in the way of dinner preparation. I cannot emphasize enough that this is the perfect opportunity to engage your child and involve them in the process. It will pay off in the long run, for both of you.

When your child lingers around the kitchen, maybe even watching you, what they are really communicating is that they want to be shown and connected to what you are doing. If you find yourself making mashed potatoes or a vegetable soup, for example, you might teach them how to scrub a potato.

They will feel a sense of belonging to the family meal and enjoy being a part of the process. Working alongside you gives them a chance to satisfy their curiosity, perhaps learn about new vegetables or develop new motor skills. Don’t be alarmed if you never get the potato back — it’s more important they learn from the experience than anything else.

By offering this opportunity to participate you are creating a valuable foundation for your child’s future and your own. I did the same with my son when he was a toddler. Now he’s a teenager who confidently prepares elaborate meals for him and his friends… and I don’t have to worry about feeding them! 🙂

Find out the many benefits of including your child next time you make a meal in the kitchen — for their own future success, as well as your own peace of mind. It’s as easy as asking them to scrub a potato!

For more tips on how to introduce Montessori activities, read The Nine Key Points to Sharing a New Activity with Your Child.

*The appropriate age will depend on the child’s individual development and abilities as well as interest. These are all approximate ages; it is essential to follow your child’s needs by learning to observe them.

P.S. Would you like my support and guidance setting-up your Montessori home? If, yes then go ahead and schedule a ‘Discovery Session’ with me. It’s free and you’ll know if we are a good fit. 😉