Cooking Christmas Cookies with the Kids

Christmas cookies are as much a part of the Christmas tradition for many as a visit from Old St. Nick himself. Preparing the cookies in hopes of his arrival by children is fun. They are as excited as they can possibly be dancing around with their bright and shining little eyes. Preparing the cookies in these instances can be a great time of bonding with your little ones but can also be a trying time if you don't follow a few of the tips and hints listed below.

If you want to make cooking Christmas cookies or candy with your little ones the best experience for you then make sure you do it on a day when this is the only task on your calendar. You do not want to rush through this time. It is not only important for bonding with your child as a parent but also a time that is an important opportunity to lock in a few precious memories of great times you'll spend together. This is one memory that you want your children to look back at Christmas and remember doing with you.

You should also make sure that everyone is resting and well-fed before beginning. This is important now more than ever before. We know more about the dangers of foods, such as raw eggs in cookie dough as well as the dough for many of our favorite Christmas confections and candies. You do not want to risk the health of your children through temptation over raw cookie dough.

Be sure that every child gets a turn with the fun stuff. This includes of course using the mixer and watching everything spin around as well as choosing their personal favorites for the next batch of cookies. You should also make a few cookies that you plan to let them paint, decorate, and play with just for fun and their own enjoyment. This will guarantee a few smiles while also scoring a few brownie points for mom.

Be patient and expect spills and messes. If you can afford a cleaning service once a year, the day after your cookie extravaganza is the day you want to splurge. Seriously, don't sweat the small stuff. We make little messes every day it shouldn't be such a shock when they make a big mess in one day. This is one reason you want to plan your cookie making on a day when the calendar is clear-you will need time for clean up.

Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for every single recipe before you begin. This is important as cookie dough doesn't wait well for that final egg and children don't understandl when interrupting them from one project to run a quick errand. When was the last time you made it in and out of the grocery store in under an hour?. If you can make it through all the steps above you should be in for smooth sailing and Christmas cookie cooking.