The Spirit of April 23rd in the Kitchen with Children
23/04/2025
April 23rd National Sovereignty and Children's Day is more than just a holiday; it is a special day when a nation claims its future and sovereignty is entrusted to the people. Gifted by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk to the children of the world, this unique day is not only a celebration, but also a tribute to the imagination, creativity, and freedom of expression of children. Each year, this meaningful day is celebrated with the same enthusiasm at home—marked by flags hanging from windows, poems recited with joy, and the sound of children’s laughter filling the air.
Holiday Joy in the Kitchen
For children, the kitchen is not just a place where meals are prepared; it is a space filled with discovery, creativity, responsibility, and fun. Especially on this special day, by opening the doors of the kitchen to them, you can offer an experience that is not only enjoyable but also helps them develop essential life skills.
According to research, involving children in the process of meal preparation improves their hand-eye coordination, boosts their self-confidence, supports the development of healthy eating habits, and strengthens family bonds.
Child-Friendly Kitchen Design
Designing spaces where children can actively engage with the kitchen as individuals is not only an aesthetic choice, but also a pedagogical responsibility. When creating child-friendly kitchens, three key elements should be taken into consideration:
Accessibility: Cabinets, drawers, and countertop heights should be designed so that children can reach them safely.
Safety: Sharp corners should be rounded, hot surfaces should be kept out of reach, non-slip flooring should be used, and all surfaces should be easy to clean.
Communication and Interaction: Open-plan kitchens create spaces where children can spend time with family members. The kitchen should be designed not only as a place to cook but also as a central hub for connection and sharing.
While kitchen spaces can be enjoyable and educational, they also pose some serious risks. In kitchens where sharp knives, electrical appliances, and hot stovetops are present, it’s essential to create safe zones for children.
Special Recipes and Small Tasks for April 23rd
For children stepping into the kitchen, everything has the potential to become a game playing with flour, kneading dough, washing vegetables… Even these small tasks can amplify the joy and meaning of a celebration. Preparing flag-shaped cookies, making mini sandwiches, or designing a 23rd April-themed fruit plate with children are fun activities that can help them feel truly included in this special day.
Time spent in the kitchen is not only fun for children, but also educational and enriching. Activities such as counting ingredients, sorting items by color and shape, following step-by-step instructions, and taking on responsibilities are not just playful; they also support learning and personal development in a meaningful way.
The Spirit of April 23rd Lives in the Warmth of the Kitchen
The most precious gift for children isn’t toys, but the quality time spent together. A few hours shared in the kitchen on April 23rd can turn into a cherished memory that lasts for years. The cookies you bake might not be perfect, and the kitchen might get a little messy but the laughter and sense of togetherness will transform your kitchen into a place of celebration.
References
Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health – Turkey Nutrition Guide 2019: https://dosyasb.saglik.gov.tr
Ministry of National Education – Early Childhood Education Program: https://tegm.meb.gov.tr
Prof. Dr. Belma Tuğrul (2009), Children and the Kitchen: An Environment Supporting Development, Ya-Pa Publishing.
