With most schools still on break until next week, at this point parents could probably use some inspired ideas to keep kids happy and occupied. There are a multitude of activities for kids and families like roller skating or going to an indoor water park. But these activities can cost a lot. Stuffing teddy bears at the mall or playing games at an arcade is fun for maybe one day of winter break, but done repeatedly these activities can break the bank.
A fun alternative is getting kids active in the kitchen. Cooking and baking appeals to toddlers and teens, and it can create memories as meaningful as any that cost many times more money. Who knows? With a little luck and some imagination, maybe this week’s kitchen creativity could even make your family some extra spending money.
Betty Crocker’s annual cookie mix recipe contest "Mix it Up with Betty!™" kicks off this week. One Grand Prize Winner will win $5,000, and it might be your family.
Start out by asking your kids to use their imaginations to think about what the most delicious cookies would taste like. Would there be chocolate chips, coconut, chopped up candy bars? Would they be shaped like circles, stars, mini donuts? What flavors? What color? What size? Sure, these may seem like simple questions to you, but your children will feel extra special and important when you take the time to learn what they like.
Kids can draw their creations and together you can create a recipe that uses a Betty Crocker cookie pouch mix. Talk about your family’s favorite flavor combinations and favorite treats. Make decisions about your final recipe together. Gather your ingredients and make a test batch. Be sure to take pictures to capture your cookie baking memories. As you taste your creation, brainstorm clever names inspired by your family’s traditions, inside jokes and nicknames. It’s a terrific way to teach your child the process of seeing an idea through from beginning to end, all while having fun in the process! So, go ahead, bake up some family fun that is educational and meaningful right in the comfort of your own home.
Be inspired by last year’s winners.
Look at the 2007 winners.
