Toy Tips with Marianne Szymanski - I Want to Be a Chef!

Editor's Note: Marianne Szymanski is a leading expert in toy reviews, and the founder of the Toy Tips Research Institute.  She is the author of Toy Tips: A Parent's Essential Guide to Smart Toy Choices and also the editor of Toy Tips and Parenting Hints Magazine.

Things in the kitchen can be toys  if used properly with an adult.  Simple measuring cups teach math skills,  a rolling pin is great for play-doh and we all know what pots and pans can do!  Cooking toys stimulate imagination, creativity and role play. Whether a toddler uses a wooden spoon and bowl to  "stir" up his first pretend meal or a kindergarten-er uses a pretend kitchen set to be a chef, these types teach, teach, teach. Using fine motor skills and thinking, these kinds of toys help children build social skills and foster self discovery.

Use these toys  with your children and you'll be surprised at how imaginative they can be.
Here are a few ideas to get you started.

• Learning Resources - Cooking Set
• Scientific Explorer's Tasty Science Chemistry in the Kitchen Kit
• Green Toys Cookware and Dining Set
• Alex Toys Super Cooking Set
• Melissa & Doug Wooden Sandwich-Making Set

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--Marianne Szymanski