There is always loads of food around at Christmas-time it really is a celebration that is characterized by indulgence of all sorts. There is food everywhere! This is a great time to get kids cooking and creating, as there are so many ways you can incorporate cooking into the festivities.

You can ask the children to help to make the food that you are going to eat. They love to chop vegetables and stir things. Start in October by getting them to help you make the Christmas pudding and the Christmas cake, and step up the action nearer the time. When you are struggling to get ready for a party, it doesn't always seem like such a good idea to ask the kids to help, but once they are 'trained' it will save you loads of time! You'll be able to ask them to do things, and wander off to the shower confident that they will be able to do it without cutting themselves or setting the kitchen on fire.

Christmas is a fabulous time to teach children the joy of giving, and home-made gifts are always great. When they come from children they are even more special. Try these gifts:

marzipan fruits, shaped and colored with food coloring
chocolate truffles in tiny lacy baskets
chocolate dipped peppermint creams
candied fruit
pickles in jars
fruit marinated in spirits try cherries, apricots or oranges

Children can also help make edible decorations. Here are some easy ones, and some that are not so easy, but still worth doing:

dough-craft decorations for the tree (not really edible, but it teaches the basics)
colored popcorn strung on threads
cranberry berries strung on threads
a beautiful gingerbread house decorated with sweets
stained-glass-window biscuits made with crushed boiled sweets

Food for parties and family gatherings can also be made by the children:

mince pies with different types of tops stars and snips and filo pastry
vol-au-vents and different canaps
tapas bites
Christmas cake decorations
Chocolate log
Cheese straws

Remember that children are keen to join in any activity that you do. If you are making punch, then let them cut up the fruit. If you are making bread, let them knead for a while. The only way they will learn is by watching you. Let them find out by actually doing things, and they'll learn twice as much. They will grow up into fulfilled and able adults, and (with luck) will eventually invite you round to their own house at Christmas for a fabulously delicious celebration!

Learn more about this author, Susan Hibberd.
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