From Dough to PLay: Winter fun for toddlers and little bakers

Winter is a magical time, especially with little ones at home. The chilly air outside makes staying cozy indoors even more inviting, and what better way to pass the time than baking together? As a parent, I’ve learned that even a 1-year-old or a toddler can get involved in the kitchen—and yes, it’s messy, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. Baking becomes more than just a task; it’s a sensory experience, a bonding opportunity.  Here’s how I’ve turned baking into playtime with my little one—and how you can too!

The Benefits of Baking with Young Kids

Baking with a 1-year-old or a toddler might sound chaotic, and I won’t lie—flour has ended up in some unexpected places. But the benefits far outweigh the mess. For 1-year-olds, it’s an opportunity to explore textures, smells, and even sounds. My little one loves the crinkling sound of a sugar bag or the soft feel of flour between his fingers. For toddlers, baking is a hands-on activity that helps develop fine motor skills, creativity, and even early math concepts like counting or measuring. Best of all, it’s a chance to slow down and make memories together. When it’s too cold to go outside on snowy afternoons, our kitchen becomes the heart of our winter fun.

 Simple Activities for 1-Year-Olds

 1-year-olds aren’t quite ready to crack eggs or roll out dough, but there are plenty of ways to include them. Here’s what has worked for us:

Exploring Ingredients: I set aside small bowls of flour, sugar, or sprinkles and let my child feel and play with them. It’s messy, but watching him light up as he squishes flour between his fingers is priceless.

 Stirring the Batter: With my hand over his, we stir together. It’s a simple activity, but it makes him feel included.

 Dough Play: I give him a small piece of dough to squeeze and poke.

 Baking Ideas for Toddlers

 Toddlers (2–3 years old) are at a perfect age to start “helping” with more involved tasks. Here are some ideas to keep them entertained:

 Cookie Decorating Stations: Pre-bake sugar cookies for them, set out icing and sprinkles and let them go to town. Sure, most sprinkles end up on the floor, but the joy on their faces is worth it. 

 Cupcake Snowmen : Bake cupcakes together, and then let them decorate with marshmallows and candy to make snowmen. 

Tips for Stress-Free Baking with Kids: Baking with little ones doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you keep these tips in mind:

 Prep Ahead: Measure out ingredients before inviting kids into the kitchen. It saves time and reduces frustration.

 Keep Expectations Low: It’s not about perfect cookies—it’s about the experience. Embrace the mess and enjoy the moment.

 Safety First: Keep sharp tools and hot surfaces out of reach, and always supervise.

Mixing Memories: Quality time in the kitchen

 For me, baking isn’t just about making treats—it’s about creating traditions. When I bake with my son, I’m passing on love and teaching him that the kitchen is a place for creativity and togetherness. I hope you’ll invite your little ones into the kitchen this winter. Let them get messy, have fun, and make memories you’ll cherish for years.

 So, roll up your sleeves, grab some cookie cutters, and turn your kitchen into a winter wonderland. Baking isn’t just about the cookies—it’s about the joy of creating something together.

This blog entry was written by Kayla Gonzalez, a contributing writer and prima (cousin) of the business owner of Nica Bake & Co.