Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in the month of May, is a day for celebrating the men and women who have served our country. It is also the unofficial kick-off to summer! Many people celebrate Memorial Day by hosting friends and family gatherings in their backyards for some good old fashioned BBQ fun. Have your whole family, including your preschoolers and toddlers, get involved with your party planning with these fun and crafty ways to serve food at your BBQ! – Muffin trays can be used for more than just baking muffins, they can be used to hold toppings or condiments and they will help eliminate clutter on your table by excluding all those bulky bottles and containers. Simply take your standard-sized muffin tray and clean it with a damp rag. Designate each section for your family’s desired toppings, spices or condiments. Provide your child with a spoon and your chosen fixings, then show your little “sous-chef” how to ration each item to its own muffin section. Accompany each section with a serving piece (if necessary) for your family to enjoy – buffet style!
- Prevent ‘double-dipping’ by creating individual veggie-dip cups using any small, disposable plastic container or cup such as a small dental cup. Using your family’s favorite dip, have your toddler partake in the prep-work by having them scoop out dip into each veggie cup (one for each guest). Cut a variety of veggies such as carrots, peppers or celery into thin long strips and have your child stick 3 or 4 pieces into each cup of dip. Your guests will love their veggie-dip cups and it will make cleaning up a breeze!
- Create a unique serving dish by serving your fruit salad in a watermelon! Take a large watermelon and cut it horizontally, then have your preschooler hollow out half of the watermelon with a melon baller. Once it’s hollowed out it should resemble a bowl. Your little one can then line the bottom of the bowl with ice to keep the fruit cold, then assist them with mixing the fruit salad into the empty watermelon, creating a fresh fruit salad in a fun watermelon bowl.
Your toddler will love preparing their unique BBQ serving ideas just as much as they will love eating their creations! The muffin trays, veggie-dip cups and watermelon bowl may even help your children get excited about trying new foods. Don’t be scared to experiment this Memorial Day with these fun ideas – they will have the whole family, especially the little ones, eager to lend a hand! Have a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend from your friends at Lightbridge Academy!
