When we do a kitchen activity, like making a smoothie with a toddler, we introduce them to new language. We are exposing them to the words for the ingredients and the equipment we use. And, we are exposing them to the names of concepts, such as measuring, pouring, mixing — and inevitably, wiping up spills.
Watch the video below for a toddler-friendly smoothie recipe and tips on preparing the environment for your child to help make the smoothie.
Materials Needed:
- strawberries
- yogurt
- orange juice
- ice cubes
- bananas
Equipment Needed
- blender
- child-sized pitcher (helpful for enabling child to pour)
- spoon or small rubber spatula
- small containers for mise en place*
*Mise en place means “everything in its place”. It’s a french cooking term and it aligns nicely with the Montessori approach to the adults role of preparing the environment.
With everything in its place before you begin a kitchen activity, a child can independently add ingredients together.
As your child’s attention span grows and their ability to carry out multiple steps increases with practice, you can do less setting up and include them in more of the process. For example, retrieving strawberries from a container, washing them, and removing the stems will add another level of detail to making a smoothie.
More practical life activities
Why Learning Towers or Kitchen Helpers are Commonly Found in Montessori Homes
A safe way to enable toddlers to climb up to the counter will boost their self-confidence and introduced them to practical life skills.
Practical Life Activities: Holiday Cookie Making with Toddlers
Step-by-step instructions for preparing cookies. Toddlers gain pride and confidence from being included in practical life activities.
Toddlers in the Kitchen: Mashed Potatoes
Participating in Thanksgiving food preparation is a rewarding practical life skill. Let’s mash some potatoes!
