If you can't stand the heat, get some help in the kitchen. When it comes to the dinner rush, it feels like there's so much to do in so little time. So why not recruit some help? Your children are the perfect assistants. From prepping the food to setting the table, there's a laundry list of duties that would be ideal for your children. You may even want to make the responsibilities part of their daily chores. Encourage your child to be a part of the process. In addition to teaching your children the importance of contributing, you're also rearing your own little Rachael Ray. While some parents are leery of bringing small children into the kitchen while they're preparing the meal, there's no reason your young one can't set the table. Equip him with whatever he can handle - whether it's dishes, silverware, cups or napkins. Teach him to get everything ready for meal time. Once the table is all ready, he can put ice in the cups or even get drinks. For older children, why not let them lending a helping hand?
Although you might not want them standing over a hot stove for safety purposes, tossing a salad, dicing veggies with a hand chopper or dull knife or mixing ingredients are all appropriate tasks. As your children become more responsible, you can allow them to tackle more of the preparation. Use your judgment as to what chores their prepared to take on. Once dinner is finished, there are still plenty of opportunities to help. Children can help clear the table, rinse the dishes, load the dishwasher or wipe down the table. The bottom line is that you want your children to realize that getting dinner on - and off - the table is a team effort, and they're part of the process.