I don’t know what is happening with this crazy weather, but it’s supposed to feel like summer is around the corner with sunnier, warmer days. Instead it’s been non-stop rainy and gloomy days that don’t seem to clear up anytime soon. If you’re a fellow boy mom, then you know how hard it is to keep boys cooped up in the house when they just want to be outside rolling around in the grass, shooting water guns, and bouncing around in their jumphouse.
Instead of feeling gloomy like the weather, I try to turn these indoor days into moments of creativity, connection, and indulgence. One of my favorite things to do is creating a charcuterie board with my kids. Not only does it allow for quality bonding time, but it also introduces kids to a variety of flavors, textures, and food pairings.
I love that my kids enjoy a good charcuterie board the way that I do. Although not as nice as this one created by my friend, owner of Harvest & Honey Co. I always try to put one together for snack times, movie nights, picnics, family barbecues, etc. I never thought it was possible for someone to love charcuterie as much as I do but I think my kids got me beat.
The set up
So for this particular day, I asked my girl Alexis, owner of Utah Flower Walls, to bring a hedge over to create some outdoor feels. I bought an artificial grass area rug and tried to recreate the outdoors for my littles to try and catch a break.
Of course I had to set up a slide for something fun for them to do, and I even set up a picnic blanket to give us that picnic in the park type of vibe. The vibes wouldn’t be complete without the proper attire. Did anyone say charcuterie print matching shirts? Yes please! My favorite brand Monica & Andy launched their spring line that included charcuterie shirts and as the self proclaimed queen of charcuterie, these were an absolute must!
Going on a Tasting Adventure
Once our charcuterie board was prepared (thanks Jessica!), it was time to embark on a tasting adventure. This is where I try to teach my kids about flavor profiles and how different ingredients complement each other. I encourage them to try new combinations, such as pairing a sharp cheddar with a tangy pickle or spreading some fig jam on a slice of prosciutto. I can sometimes make it a game by asking them to describe the taste and texture of each item. This interactive approach will stimulate their senses and expand their culinary horizons.
Cherishing the Moment
As we enjoy the charcuterie board together, I try to take this moment as the time to engage in meaningful conversations. I ask my kids about their favorite flavors, which combinations they liked the most, and what new foods they would like to try in the future. We catch up on the latest Sonic the Hedgehog news, what’s going on in their little worlds, and anything else they open up to me about. For me, these discussions foster connection, create lasting memories, and strengthen the bond between my kids and I.
I also like to bring two or three board games or puzzles that we can play together. Even Jaylen who isn’t quite two years old yet, likes to be included in these games. If you’re looking for rainy day games to play with kids five years old and under, here are some of our favorites:
Rainy days don’t need to be boring. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy quality time with your kiddos indoors by challenging yourself to get creative. This activity not only introduces them to the world of flavors and textures but also stimulates their creativity and expands their culinary knowledge. So, let the rain pour, gather your little ones, and savor the delightful experience of indoor fun together!
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