I know I have said it over and over again but having kids help with dinner can be one of the best things for your family.  Not only just it give you more time to bond together, it teaches them responsibility, and life skills.  It isn’t easy and it is usually messy but if you look at it with optimism you can have a lot of fun.

1. Be Flexible: Let your kids help in their own way don’t make it like Hell’s Kitchen were you simply bark out orders.  Remember that it is ok if everything doesn’t turn out perfect it is more about the process than the result.   Also younger children have a short attention span so don’t get upset if they help for five minutes and then decide to play with your excersise ball instead.
2. Let your kids to pick the menu:  Do this on a regular basis.   This can be a great way to start teaching or reinforce nutrition.  Make sure they pick something to cover all the food groups so their diets stay balanced and healthy but allow them to choose.  Kid friendly dishes can be healthy too but that is a whole post in and of itself.
3. Make dinner interactive:  Especially when you have little ones you need to make sure and have things that are safe for them to help with.  They are really good at mixing, dipping, shaking, and anything that can get really messy.  Reagan loves when we make battered zucchini cause she gets to dip the zucchini in flour, eggs, and bread crumbs.
4. Make a game out of it:  You can do all kids of things.  Younger kids like to play restraunt and serve dad or siblings after they order.  Older kids like to race eachother or you can test their knowledge with fun trivia as you cook.

These are obviously just a few ideas.  If you have any to add please leave a comment I am always ready to try something new.  Or if you try any of these ideas and want to share your story please do.  Remember to have fun!