When you are cooking, but your toddler is begging for you to play with them, your attention is in two places. It is a tug-of-war that can feel like a no-win situation. Either you ignore your toddler and focus on finishing that nutritious meal, or skip out on cooking and attend only to your kid. What if you could balance all the tasks simultaneously? You can entertain your toddler and cook up a delicious meal at the same time.
It takes some patience and preparation. While your kid sits in the rocker for babies, you can keep them entertained and occupied while completing other tasks. Child-rearing requires you to stay attentive and responsible towards your child and chores. Consider other tips:
Finger painting
Watch every movement while working in the kitchen when your toddler is around. If you have multiple responsibilities, you can make them sit on a high chair, give them some mustard and ketchup, and see them finger paint. They have fun strengthening their finger muscles, understanding movement, and becoming creative.
Buy toys
All children idolise their parents and aim to be like them. While your child stares at you cooking, you can keep them occupied by buying a baby kitchen set with all the essentials, like a cooktop, vessels, and food. Since they contain safe plastic, they are large enough to avoid choking hazards and help your child cook a delicious meal.
Have a dance party
Have a dance party with some fun music to entertain toddlers while trying to put a meal together. You can let them burn some extra energy while listening to their favourite jams, keeping them out of your kitchen. It keeps them entertained and occupied while they learn dance moves.
Counting exercises
Give your toddler a bag of potatoes or tomatoes and ask them to count. Include two baskets to help them sort the vegetables according to size or colour. It is a great learning opportunity for kids to learn sorting, counting, and dividing.
Washing fruits and veggies
When your child plays with a play kitchen set, show them how to wash the plastic fruits and vegetables before playing. It teaches them some hygiene tips while maintaining cleanliness. Likewise, you keep your child away from gadgets and set an example by making cooking a social activity.
Conclusion
While you bond with your child, you see them become responsible. Make a list of things they can do, like recognising vegetables, colours, forms, and shapes, while you cook. Buy age-appropriate toys for your kid and see them learn, grow, and develop many skills.