Below I've categorized kitchen activities into what kids can learn WITH HELP at each age group from 1-5 years old.
1-Year-Olds
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Physical Development
Learning to control large arm muscles.
Grasping with hands. Environment
Tossing objects in the garbage, putting soiled clothes/napkins in the hamper, and carrying a plate or tray with one balanced object.
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2-Year-Olds
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Physical Development
Mastering use of large arm muscles.
Learning smaller hand and finger movements. Environment
Putting place settings on labeled placemat, carrying objects on a tray, holding the dustpan, throwing items in the garbage/ compost/ recycling, wiping hands & face, and putting silverware in the dishwasher.
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3-Year-Olds
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Physical Development
Good control of larger arm muscles.
Mastering smaller hand movements. Developing finger dexterity. Environment
Preparing the work space, wiping surfaces, adding soap to the dishwasher, loading unbreakable items into the dishwasher, sweeping the floor.
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4-Year-Olds
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Physical Development
Good control of arm and hand muscles.
Mastering finger dexterity. Some kids will be able to do these activities earlier if they’ve been learning kitchen tasks from a young age. Environment
Taking ingredients out of the fridge (& putting them away), setting the table, rinsing breakable dishes carefully, loading & starting dishwasher, helping to plan meals, mopping or wiping floors and furniture.
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5-Years +Please remember these activities all need to be SUPERVISED, especially
learning to use sharp tools and machinery!
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Physical Development
Good control of arm, hand, and finger movements.
Some kids will be able to do these activities earlier if they’ve been learning kitchen tasks from a young age or later if they are just beginning Environment
Putting groceries away, putting dishes away, preparing & serving a whole meal to the family, packaging leftovers, and wiping appliances safely.
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