It’s no secret that the family who spends time together in the kitchen is a happier one. So, why not make your kitchen a place where the entire family feels at home? Children want to be a part of the action — it’s one of their ways of learning. That means that the kitchen should be inviting, yet safe, for kids.
Family-Friendly Surfaces
Spills and messes are abundant when you live with kids. Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, installing surfaces that can quickly and easily be wiped down is a must. When choosing a worktop material for a kid-friendly kitchen, consider durability and wipeability. Quartz countertops are excellent solutions because they're virtually indestructible, easy to clean, maintain and are hygienic. Laminate or melamine cabinets have been the go-to for parents for ages because it is durable.
Functional Flooring
Kitchen flooring ideas have to be incredibly tough to stand up to both dirt and knocks in a family kitchen. Natural stone flooring can be one of the most forgiving floor coverings if the right stone and finish are chosen. Naturally, some stones will be denser than others which provides more durability, however all natural stone will be subject to a little wear and tear over the years. A porcelain tile is non-porous and will therefore provide a stain proof option which can be preferable with young children.
Easy-Access Pantry & Storage
Give them their own storage. Dedicate a drawer and/or cabinet in the under-cabinet section and organize it with kid's plates, bowls, cups, and utensils, as well as some of their favorite snack items. This simple kitchen design is also a simple way to avoid the barrage of little requests.
Out of Reach
While accessible storage is great for dishes, inaccessible storage is just as important when you have small children at home. Keep priceless, fragile and potentially dangerous items in high cupboards that cannot be reached by kids even if they stand on a chair or footstool. Remember: the sharper it is, the higher it should be.
Seating
Seating in the form of an eat-in table, breakfast nook, or bar stools pulled up to an island—is crucial for a kid-friendly kitchen. It welcomes youngsters into the room, giving them a place to do homework or help prep food, while keeping them away from the cook. If you do not have an island, a step stools are useful for children who want to see and be a part of the action in the kitchen. Make sure yours is tall enough to let your smallest child reach the sink for hand washing.
Add a Blackboard
A blackboard in a kitchen makes it easy to write down reminders, grocery lists, or even an inspirational quote for everyone to see and enjoy.