This summer we are working on developing child independence even if it kills me. I have started to force my children to make decisions, take the lion’s share of the responsibility for their actions, and not have to have me feel the need to hoover over their every move. One of the ways that we have been doing this is by learning to cook, a skill that some grown men and women seem to be lacking.
The Beginning of Independence
We started small with unrolling the crescent rolls and pouring in the pancake ingredients, but the crowning achievement so far has been my 8 year old son making his own omelette 100% by himself (in the microwave). This happened one morning when he scoffed at my granola bar and yogurt breakfast while requesting cheesy eggs.
I added this recipe to my repertoire when I was in elementary school – a result of many many sleepovers one summer. It became one of my go-to breakfasts until I learned how to use a skillet on the stove and even as an occasional college breakfast if I missed eating in the cafeteria.
Ingredients and How-To
- 2 eggs
- Splash of milk
- cheese of your choice
- Microwave safe bowl
- Carefully crack eggs into bowl.
- Add a splash of milk and mix.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Put in the microwave and cook for 2 minutes. If the eggs are still runny after that time, continue cooking in 30 second increments.
- Enjoy!
The Results
My son was so excited that he was able to make his own breakfast. Since then he has had an upswing in actions and independent behaviors. I don’t have the constant “I’m bored” coming from him. His confidence heading into theatre camp this week was pretty high.
We are going to work on some more cooking throughout the summer. We are going to hunt through all of my different cook books to find something that interests the kids and might even try some from right here at Orlando Moms Blog.
If I play my cards right, school lunches will be out of my hands by the time August rolls around. Of course, I’m sure I’ll have to double check that they aren’t just cookies and yogurts.
Hmm, I really need to work on independence with my son. My daughter started shrugging me off when she was 2, and she always wanted to do everything herself. My 10 year old son…I still have to start the bath water. Arrrgh I know it is terrible, don’t judge me moms!
I love this! I learned something for myself too 🙂 I have never thought to microwave eggs. I think this is my 1st time here so, “Nice to meet you!” Have a great weekend!