For most of us, the kitchen is the most popular room in the house. It’s not only where meals are prepared, but it’s where we gather with our loved ones to share quality family time together. Not every kitchen is made with this idea in mind, though. In fact, some kitchens make this type of family togetherness nearly impossible.
So with that said, here are five elements of a family-friendly kitchen.
Open Floor Plan
The kitchen may be the most popular room in the house, but the living room is a close second. Why not join the two together with an open floor plan that creates a flow between the two spaces? This encourages interaction and allows each member of the family to pursue their own activity while still participating in the group conversation.
Computer Corner
Wireless internet technology allows for laptops to be used in any part of the house. And for a lot of families, that means the kids stay locked in their rooms. So why not create a permanent computer area near the kitchen. This way, the kids can still do their homework or enjoy other online activities while dinner is being made. Even if the conversation is limited, it’s always nice to have everyone together.
Accessible Pantry
A conveniently located pantry keeps the conversation going while you search for the items you need. And by including drawers that fully extend, you can cut down on time you spend searching for things. Another great option to consider is to have a lower-level drawer designated for the kids. Fill this with parent-approved options to encourage self-sufficiency and healthy eating.
Easy-to-Clean Surfaces
We all know spills are bound to happen – especially if the kiddos are helping. So when it comes time to install a new countertop, be sure to choose a material that is easy to clean. Some natural stones, like marble or granite, are porous and can sometimes stain. Other synthetic materials, though, such as laminate or quartz, are more resistant to stains while still offering a great look that will hold up over time. At the end of the day, you just want to wipe up the mess and forget about it, right?
Kid-safe Corners on Countertops
While we’re on the subject of countertops, be sure that your corners are safe for kids. Many times, kitchen counters have sharp edges that can be hazardous for young chefs. Instead, make the corners of your counter rounded and smooth. A fun evening of baking with your kids can come to a screeching stop if they bump their head on a sharp corner. Avoid the tears by rounding out the edges. They might still hit their head, but it will hurt much less.