How much to you involve your kids in meal planning/prep?

[Anonymous]

DC are 9 and 11, definitely old enough to offer opinions and help to a degree. I generally let them each pick a meal, within reason during the week when I meal plan/grocery shop. They will look through the flyers, see what's on sale (I totally plan around sales/bargains!) and know to request based on that. This week one asked for spaghetti and one requested sloppy joe's, both of which made it onto the list.
During the week, meals are usually quicker or done in the crock pot, but they can set the table, pour milk, etc. On the weekends if they ask, I'll take their help when I'm browning meat, making a salad, etc, but I don't MAKE them help---and honestly it's easier w/o their help sometimes, LOL!
How much participation to you get/ask for/demand from your kids?

[Anonymous]

My kids help when they can, usually weekends. I also ask what they want for lunches.

[Anonymous]

My toddler keeps wanting to "help" with everything remotely cooking related. He is no longer satisfied shaking spice containers and stirring imaginary things in empty bowls. Cute that he's so interested in what I'm doing, but frustrating! I look forward to the time when I can actually let him help me do things.

[Anonymous]

They usually offer opinions on the weekly menu, including lunches.

My 3yo loves to help cook. He stands on a stepstool while we chop veggies together, both of our hands on the knife. He arranges the veggies on our salad plates. He cracks and beats eggs on his own, stirs anything I give him, and is learning to flip pancakes. He also sets the table about half the time.

My older son isn't as interested, and I don't force it.

[Anonymous]

My toddler loves to mix the dough for bread. It's actually great-- it keeps her occupied for a long time and comes out great.