Baking With Kids Tips #2

Make cookie dough ahead of time.

Huge time saver when you want to do some baking with the kids but don't have a lot of time. It has been my experience that munchkins are just as happy cutting shapes out of the dough or dropping tablespoons (while sneaking tastes) on cookies sheets as they are measuring and mixing. And when you don't have a lot of time -- maybe you only have a couple hours together with your favorite short people due to busy schedules -- you still get some quality face time with them. Some of the best conversations I've ever had with my kids have been while baking. 

Cookie dough is hugely versatile and freezes really well. I always keep dough on hand for impromptu baking urges. Like when 4ft wants to talk but doesn't quite know how to start. Let's go bake some cookies. When Grumpers is having a rough day (it's tough being two). Let's go bake some cookies. And you know, sometimes you just need a cookie. Let's go bake some cookies.

More words of wisdom: Cookies make everything better!

Baking With Kids Tips #1

I have three kids -- all of which love to help me bake. So I've had a munchkin helper or two or three for going on 7 years now and have a few helpful hints and tips on how to get your darlings in the kitchen with you without the stress little helper hands can sometimes cause. I know baking with three kids doesn't make me an expert by any stretch of the imagination but I thought I'd share what works for me and my little chefs.

Tip #1 -- Time Management

Before you start a baking project (and yes, with kids involved it becomes a project) decide how much time you'll need. One of the biggest stress creators I've found baking with kids is when I haven't allotted enough time to get the job done -- I begin to rush to finish and that is a recipe for disaster. I don't know about you, but when I'm rushed, I get testy and when I get testy I stop having fun. If I'm not having fun how is it possible that my kids are. It's not.

Always make sure you have over estimated the time you need from start to finish. When kids help they want to help. Everything you do they want to do too. Make sure you have enough time to let them. I guarantee you and your family will be creating fun-filled baking memories.

Always remember my Golden Rule of Baking with Kids -- Baking should always be one part laughter, one part mess, and three parts FUN!