Making a bagel is a simple and fun way to get your kids involved in the kitchen. This guide shows you how to make a bagel with easy steps that kids can follow, turning breakfast into a fun and tasty experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Bagels are a simple and versatile breakfast option that kids love.
- Choose fun toppings to keep your child engaged and excited about eating.
- Encourage independence by letting kids help with the process.
- Safety first: teach proper use of the toaster or oven with adult supervision.
What’s the easiest way to make a bagel for kids? The simplest way is to toast a pre-made bagel, spread on your kid’s favorite topping, and add fun extras like fruits or sprinkles. It’s quick, customizable, and perfect for little hands.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Choose Your Bagel
Start by picking the right bagel. You can find plain, whole wheat, or flavored bagels like blueberry and cinnamon raisin that kids love. Opt for mini bagels if you’re serving younger kids, as they are easier to handle and eat.
If your child has dietary restrictions, there are gluten-free or low-sugar options available. Let your child help choose the bagel—they’re more likely to eat something they picked out themselves.
Read more: How to Make Toast
Step 2: Prepare the Bagel
Cut the bagel in half with a bread knife. If your child is old enough, you can guide them through this step, but be sure to supervise closely. Always ensure safety by keeping fingers away from the blade and holding the bagel steady.
If your child isn’t ready to handle a knife, you can handle the cutting part and let them take charge of the fun steps like toasting and spreading toppings.
Step 3: Toast the Bagel
Next, place the bagel halves in a toaster or oven. For younger kids, using a toaster is usually simpler and safer, but if you prefer the oven, set it to a low broil and keep a close eye on the bagel to prevent burning.
Teach your child the importance of safety around hot appliances. Remind them to use tongs or a fork to remove the toasted bagel to avoid burns, and always supervise this step.
Step 4: Spread on Your Toppings
Once toasted, it’s time for the fun part—toppings! Let your child choose their favorite spread, whether it’s cream cheese, peanut butter, or a simple pat of butter. Allow them to use a butter knife to spread their topping, encouraging independence.
For kids with allergies, there are plenty of alternatives, like sunflower seed butter or dairy-free cream cheese. Spreading toppings is a great way to develop fine motor skills, so let them practice—even if it gets a bit messy.
Step 5: Add Fun Extras
Personalize the bagel by adding fun extras like fresh fruits, sprinkles, or a drizzle of honey. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or even banana slices add a healthy touch that kids will enjoy.
Encourage your child to get creative. They can make faces with fruit slices or sprinkle some granola on top for a crunchy texture. This not only makes the meal more exciting but also helps them develop a love for healthy eating.
Read more: Teach Kids How to Clean Kitchen Surfaces
Step 6: Cut the Bagel into Bite-Sized Pieces
If your child is still working on their chewing skills, consider cutting the bagel into bite-sized pieces. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to create small, manageable pieces that are easy to pick up and enjoy.
This is especially helpful for toddlers or kids with sensory sensitivities who might struggle with larger bites. It’s all about making the meal enjoyable and accessible.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Set up a fun spot at the table or even a picnic area on the floor with a small plate and napkin. Encourage your child to take pride in their creation and enjoy every bite. Eating something they helped make always tastes better!
This is also a great time to talk about food preferences, textures, and flavors. Ask them what they liked about their bagel and if they’d like to try something different next time.
Step 8: Clean Up Together
After enjoying the bagel, involve your child in the cleanup process. Teach them to wipe down the table, put away any unused toppings, and place dishes in the sink. This teaches responsibility and keeps the kitchen tidy.
Cleaning up doesn’t have to be boring; turn it into a game or play their favorite song while tidying up. It’s a great way to end your cooking session on a positive note.
Step 9: Experiment with Different Toppings
Don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings. Try savory options like hummus and cucumber slices or go sweet with almond butter and apple slices. The possibilities are endless and keep breakfast interesting.
Let your child experiment with combinations—they might surprise you with their ideas. This freedom fosters creativity and can help picky eaters try new foods in a low-pressure way.
Goally | Best Videos to Teach Life Skills
Give your kid an independent future. Goally has 100+ video classes teaching life skills like “How to Choose a Restaurant,” “How to Interrupt Politely,” and “How to Get Ready for School.”
Goally takes kids on an adventure that includes interactive practice and checkpoints along the way! No web browsers, YouTube, or social media.
Making a bagel for kids is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to spend quality time together and encourage your child’s independence in the kitchen. With the right bagel, tasty toppings, and a little creativity, breakfast can be a fun, hands-on experience that your child looks forward to. Enjoy these moments and watch your little chef’s skills grow!
Helpful Resources
FAQ’s About How to Make a Bagel
What are some fun toppings for kids’ bagels?
Some fun toppings include cream cheese with sprinkles, peanut butter and banana slices, or a drizzle of honey with fresh berries. Letting kids choose their toppings keeps breakfast exciting and personalized.
Can my child use a toaster safely?
Kids can use a toaster safely with adult supervision. Teach them to use tongs or a fork to remove the bagel once it's done toasting, and always remind them not to put their hands inside the toaster.
What should I do if my child has allergies?
If your child has allergies, opt for alternative spreads like sunflower seed butter or dairy-free cream cheese. Always check labels for allergens, and keep a variety of safe toppings on hand.
How can making bagels help my child develop skills?
Making bagels helps kids practice fine motor skills like spreading toppings, using utensils, and safely handling kitchen tools. It also boosts their confidence and encourages independence in the kitchen.
This post originally published on 09/13/2023. It was updated on 09/09/2024.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
