One of the best ways to help kids learn life skills is to engage them in games that mimic the same activities you do around the house. They will feel like they are part of things, and they will also be watching what you do so they can learn how everything works. Some studies have shown that this type of play activity really does help your kids actually apply the skills they have to real world situations.
A great toy along these lines is a toy kitchen set. Kidkraft wooden kitchens can be found in many stores, and are a well made model that will last for years. Toy kitchen sets range from full blown kitchen sets with play ovens, fridges, and workbenches, down to smaller sets of appliances that your kids can use when sharing bench space with you.
As with any activity in the kitchen, be mindful of safety at all times. Your kids will need to be warned about slippery surfaces, hot pans, and sharp knives if they are with you in the kitchen. However, learning to be careful in this invironment will also be a good skill for children to have through life.
A great example of how this type of toy can be used to teach you kids a useful skill is if you have them follow along the steps as you cook a meal. Tell them each ingredient you are using, where it comes from, and what it tastes like.
As they listen and pretend to cook the same thing next to you, they will be absorbing more information than in any classroom. You can also teach your kids the importance of healthy eating in just the same way. Explain to them what are ‘sometimes’ foods and what you should eat every day. Before you know it, they will be keeping you in line next time a burger is calling!