With Nora being 3-years-old now, we are starting to leave the toddler years behind. This fall she will enter Children's House and a whole new world of discovery will open up for her. But, even at 3-years-old, and before entering school, she is so exceedingly capable. Kitchen tasks, in particular, are a favorite of hers.
So, today I wanted to share a list of some of the things that a new 3-year-old, like Nora, could be doing in the kitchen. This list is by no means exhaustive. It is just a list of the things I can think of that Nora enjoys. Use it as inspiration, and remember to follow your own child's lead.
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Food Preparation Jobs for 3-Year-Olds
Measuring out small amounts of food
Pouring and mixing pre-measured ingredients
Washing fruits and vegetables
Making tea or lemonade
Slicing fresh fruits and vegetables
Cracking an egg
Beating an egg
Making a sandwich
Following simple recipes with guidance
Make instant oatmeal
Use a toaster
Stir foods cooking on the stove
Make a mini pizza
Gather food from a toaster oven
Slice hard meats and cheeses
Pour a bowl of cereal
Mix dough
Use a rolling pin
Prepare a snack of dry food
Making a smoothie
Making a popsicle
Peal vegetables
Make instant pudding or jello
Juice an orange, lemon, or similar fruit
Bake or cook longer recipes with guidance
Cleaning Tasks in the Kitchen at 3-Years-old
Wash the table
Put rags into laundry
Gather dirty dishes and place in sink/dishwasher
Spray child-safe cleaner
Wipe up spills
Bring things to garbage
Empty water buckets
Mop/sweep/swiffer the floor
Unload dishwasher and put away items with guidance
Replace wet dish towels
Wipe down counters
Wash dishes in the sink
Put away groceries
Hang up an apron
Fold kitchen towels and put them away
Scrub with a brush
Serving Opportunities for Montessori 3-Year-Olds
Gathering water glasses for others
Pour water for herself
Scoop/transfer food to someone's plate
Bring someone food/drink to eat
Clearing the table
Other Kitchen Skills
Put on an apron
Move around with a stool
Set glass down carefully, even in sink
Use oven mitts
Again, there is no way this is an exhaustive list of things that a new 3-year-old could be doing in the kitchen. If your child is interested in practical cooking, I urge you to make the time and space for your child to get involved, even from a very young age.
Does your toddler like to work in the kitchen? What does your 3-year-old enjoy doing?
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