Fern and Fog

Cooking with kids doesn’t need to be a stressful task. In fact, it can be a blast—and an excellent opportunity to bond, teach them new skills, and let them feel proud of the meals they’ve helped create. You don’t have to make everything “perfect” or “Pinterest-worthy.” Instead, focus on the fun, the learning, and the delicious results.

Here are a few easy recipes that your little chefs can help with. They’re perfect for kids of all ages, whether you’ve got a toddler who just loves stirring or an older child who’s ready to take on bigger tasks.

1. Make-Your-Own Pizzas

Kids love getting hands-on, and pizza is the ultimate customizable meal. This one is perfect for little helpers because they can create their own personal pizzas with their favorite toppings. Plus, it’s gluten-free (with an option for non-gluten-free), and no one has to be picky about what’s on their slice.

Ingredients:

• 1 gluten-free pizza crust (or regular crust if preferred)
• Pizza sauce
• Shredded cheese (mozzarella or any cheese your kids like)
• Toppings: sliced bell peppers, pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, pineapple, or anything else they love

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the crust by placing it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If you’re using a gluten-free crust, it may need to be pre-baked a little—check the package instructions.
3. Spread the pizza sauce on the crust. Little hands can help with this, using a spoon to spread it evenly.
4. Top the pizza with cheese and whatever toppings your kids choose. Let them go wild—this is their chance to make their pizza exactly how they want it!
5. Bake the pizza in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.

2. DIY Fruit Salad

This is a simple, healthy, and colorful dish that kids can help prepare. They can get involved with washing, peeling, and chopping (with supervision, of course) the fruits. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce new fruits to their palate.

Ingredients:

• 1 banana, sliced
• 1 apple, diced
• 1 cup of strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup of grapes, sliced
• 1/2 cup of orange segments (or other fruit)
• A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Steps:

1. Wash the fruit together and get your kids involved by letting them peel or slice the fruit (with safe, kid-friendly knives if they’re old enough).
2. Toss all the fruit into a large bowl. Let the kids mix it together.
3. If you want to sweeten it, drizzle a little honey over the fruit or sprinkle with cinnamon. Let your kids shake it up to mix it in.
4. Serve the fruit salad in bowls or cups. Let the kids scoop it out and enjoy!

3. DIY Sandwiches

Sometimes the simplest meals are the most fun. Let your kids build their own sandwiches with ingredients they love. This is a perfect way for kids to take charge of their meal while getting involved in every step of the process.

Ingredients:

• Bread (gluten-free or regular)
• Peanut butter (or any nut butter)
• Jelly or honey
• Sliced deli meat or cheese (optional)
• Veggies like cucumber or lettuce (optional)

Steps:

1. Lay out the ingredients so the kids can choose what they want to put on their sandwich.
2. Spread the peanut butter (or nut butter) on one slice of bread and the jelly or honey on the other. Little hands can help spread with a butter knife or spoon.
3. Add fillings like cheese, deli meat, and veggies. You can make it simple with just peanut butter and jelly or go all out with multiple layers.
4. Cut the sandwich into halves or quarters, or use cookie cutters to make fun shapes for little kids.
5. Serve the sandwiches with a side of fruit or chips.

4. Easy No-Bake Energy Bites

These little bites are perfect for a snack, and kids will love rolling them into balls. They’re customizable, too—you can switch up the ingredients based on what your family likes.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips or raisins
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds (optional)

Steps:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl. Have your kids mix them up with a spoon or their hands. It’s fun and a little messy!
2. Once everything is combined, use your hands to roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
3. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet or plate, and refrigerate them for about 30 minutes to set.
4. Serve the bites as an easy snack, or pack them in lunches for later.

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Cooking with kids is a great way to bond and teach them essential skills, all while making meals together. What’s your favorite recipe to cook with your kids? Share your experiences in the comments below, or come over to my Facebook and tell me how you and your little chefs get down in the kitchen!