subject: Families And Kids In The Kitchen [print this page] There is a magical room in your residenceThere is a magical room in your residence. In this room people can learn, grow, speak, listen, think, make choices, accomplish, laugh, cry, prepare, clean, play... and, oh yes, eat. It is your kitchen and it is an area in which people and relationships can blossom and thrive. How many of you are enjoying the magic that occurs here?
A century years ago people were either farmers or lived in cities. Children contributed to the day-to-day functioning of the family. By the end of the day, the kitchen was the focal point of the family - sharing the day's events, what went on in the community and larger world, and also concerns for the welfare of the family.
Times have changed. Two parents may work outside the house. There are many single-parent families, and extended family often lives far away. Many teens are so over-scheduled this reveals as if they need a social secretary to keep track of their activities. In the busy-ness of life, we are spending less time together as a family, and, some would say, not a lot of it is 'quality time.'
Your kitchen would be the starting point for creating stronger ties with your children. In my kitchen, my daughter and I chop ingredients, unload the dishwasher, talk about the day, eat mac and cheese together, and slip bits of food to our dog. My son, an amazing cook, tells me what seasonings to add, scrubs pots, sings with me, and sometimes dances me throughout the floor and into the living room. What can every body do in this truly multi-purpose room?
Make time to take time with your children. This could take some planning, and you may find that it is well worth the effort. Create magic and memories for the holidays, and every single day.Their work focuses on improving communication and listening skills, as well as values- and character-based parenting.
