The Secret to Making Cooking Time Fun
I hear you. The kids aren’t interested. The teens are glued to their phones. Your spouse is deep into something important on the screen. And you’re telling me I can make cooking time fun?
Yes, dear, I get it. It’s not always easy, but it’s possible. Let me throw some salt in the fire right now—fun starts with you.
Why Your Mindset Matters in the Kitchen
Here’s the thing: if you don’t believe in what you’re doing, no one else will. And trust me, I don’t always get this right. But when I do? The results are almost instant.
Like the other day, I turned on some music, got the mop , singing and dancing as I did the floors. You see . doing this is not my jam, I would rather experiment making a new dish. My son heard me and wanted the mop. I pretended to reluctantly offer but you know
Why would they want to be in the kitchen with someone who doesn’t even want to be there? Think about it.
I know, you’d rather have a magic list—three things to make the little ones sit still, the older ones put their phones down, and your spouse turn off the TV and help. I get it. Somedays, That’s all I really want.
Why the Kitchen Can Be More Than Just a Place to Cook
Now, for me, the kitchen table has multiple functions. It’s where I write, color, sit, think, plan—basically, it’s my space. Cooking? I can do it. Cleaning? It depends on the day. But I know we all have things we’d rather not do. Sometimes, though, those things need to get done so we can move on to the fun stuff.
One thing I tell my kids—and myself on tough days—is this: Do what you need to do, then you can do what you want to do.

And no, you don’t have to cook every day. That’s why meal planning exists. It takes away the stress of figuring out dinner on the fly. (Check out my meal planning blog for tips on winning that game!)
5 Ways to Make the Kitchen a Place They Want to Be
1. Show That You Want to Be There
They take cues from you. If you’re dreading it, they will too. When I enjoy the process, they’re more likely to join in.
2. Keep It Inviting
A cluttered kitchen isn’t fun for anyone. I try to keep the island clear (not always easy, but we make the effort). When there’s too much stuff—lunch boxes, water bottles, laptops—they tend to find another spot. So, I call them out to put their things away.
3. Give Everything a Place
Make space. Seriously. When everyone knows where things go, it’s easier to keep the kitchen clear and welcoming. If they see you putting things away, they’re more likely to follow suit. (At least, that’s the hope!)
4. Set the Mood
A little ambiance goes a long way. A quote on the wall or counter. A candle on the table (if little hands aren’t grabbing). A small chair for tiny chefs. A step stool so they can reach the counter. A game set out to keep them engaged. Small touches make a big difference.
5. Make It Fun and Interactive
Laugh. Listen. Make moments memorable. Let them be your sous chef. Have them read the recipe. Give them the power to choose a dish and help them cook it. Let them sprinkle the seasoning. Make it theirs.
The Key to a Fun Kitchen Experience
The key? Invite, declutter, set the mood, and let them in.
It won’t be perfect every day. We don’t always have the patience for it. But the more we make room for it, the easier it gets—and the more they see it as normal.
Share Your Kitchen Fun Ideas!
What do you do to make kitchen time fun? I’d love to hear your ideas!