Working Together in the Kitchen- Stove Top Treats
Are you ready to introduce your kids to the kitchen?
Start slowly. Each skill should be presented in a fun way. Everything taught should build on the previous experiences. Spend time talking about safety. Periodically, mention some teaching points. Maintain a lighthearted attitude. Don?t become frazzled when messes occur. Cleaning up is part of the kitchen experience. Working together can create wonderful memories.
One of the first recipes that I presented to my children was Rice Krispy Treats. They loved eating these squares and enjoyed making them.
Over the years, we experimented with several different versions. Peanut butter, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, and granola were some of the more popular additions. Oftentimes, I substituted Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallow cr?me for whole or miniature marshmallows.
Remember kitchen counters are tall. Smaller children will need a step stool so they can see what is happening.
Delegating Responsibilities with Kids
- Can assist with gathering all of the ingredients and utensils
- Read the recipe
- Measure ingredients
- If old enough, can help mix and pour
- Cleaning up and putting away utensils
Teaching Points:
- Learning how to measure dry ingredients.
- Proportions- Rice Krispies are twice as much as granola
- Conversion- 8 ounces = 1 cup
- Solids can turn into liquids via heat
- Combining different ingredients to create a new item
- Can your child put into sequence the steps that you followed?
- Estimating- how many squares can be cut?
- Taking pride- creating something new is an accomplishment.
Safety:
- Being aware of hot elements and flames.
- Avoiding accidental burns. How to care for a burn.
- Pot handles off to the side.
- Turning off stove before removing pot.
- Putting empty pot on cool burner or hot pad.
- Keeping food fresh- proper storage.
Children can learn many concepts when they work with their parents in the kitchen. Remember to start out slowly and to find ways to make the experience fun. Tasting the finished treat is the best part.
Rice Krispy/Granola Treats.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Rice Krispies
- 2 cups ground Nature?s Path Chia Plus Coconut Chia Granola (Can substitute favorite granola)
- 2-3 tablespoons butter
- 7-10 ounces Kraft Jet-Puffed marshmallow cr?me
- Pam
(The amount of butter and marshmallow cr?me can be adjusted. The fat and sugar content will be lowered with less of each.)
Directions
- Put the granola in a food processor. Grind the cereal until it is a consistent coarse texture.
- Put aside
- In a pot, slowly melt the butter and marshmallow cr?me. Be careful not to burn the mixture. Stir until blended. Turn off the burner.
- Add the Rice Krispies- 1 cup at a time. Alternate with the granola. Stir until well blended. If you are using less butter and marshmallow cr?me it will take longer to mix thoroughly.
- Spray a 9X13 pan with Pam or alternative.
- Spoon the mixture into a 9X13 pan. Flatten with a spoon or wax paper.
- Let cool. Cut into squares. Cover with Saran Wrap.
?Enjoy!
About the author
Sandra Bornstein, an international educator and writer, has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses at the University of Colorado and Front Range Community College. Sandra holds two masters’ degrees- one in Education from the University of Colorado and another in Jewish Studies from Spertus College.In 2010, her husband’s international job created a unique opportunity to live abroad. In India, she fulfilled three passions – a desire to travel, a zeal for writing, and a love of teaching. Sandra’s Indian adventure became the backdrop for her award-winning book, May This Be The Best Year Of Your Life: A Memoir.
Check out her website and author Facebook page.
