Home > Feeding Frenzy > Archives > 2008 > September > 12 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAre your kids amateur dining critics?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Sometimes I wonder if while I wasn’t looking my children trained to become dining critics. At least that is how it sounds from their dinnertime coversation.
The prodding actually starts as soon as they get home from school. The first thing out of their mouths, even at 3 o’clock is, “What’s for dinner?” The answer is either met with a groan or a nod of approval. Then they check on the “sides” to make sure they are appropriate accompaniments. When everything is to their satisfaction they’ll begin homework.
During final preparations, they hover around and comment. “Is the heat too high?” “Are you adding that vegetable?” “Is that onion piece chopped too large?” I politely ask them to take their seats before I bop them on the head.
Once the meal is served, it’s more dissection than discussion. Depending on the night, I’ll hear an assortment of comments like, ”a little too spicy”, “needs more salt” or my favorite “not so much flavor.”
While I like feedback, their comments sometimes take the pleasure out of eating. What about your kids? Do they appreciate what you’re feeding them or are they your harshest judges?
Permalink | Comments (3) | Post your comment | Categories: Family foibles
Comments
By Stan
September 12, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
I don’t recall doing that as a kid, though it is possible. I suspect that this issue is somewhat unique to you due to your job.
Cute write up though.
By Becky
September 12, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this
As Stan said, I don’t remember doing this as a child, but I would imagine that your children have grown up with your job being that it is & this is why they do these things..
I have 2 grandchildren that are 6 & they will tell me that they like something or not..They love to be in the kitchen with me cooking, so maybe they will grow up loving to cook…
My grandaughter loves to make fun of my niece (16) & let her know that she can crack an egg..A small feat for her…
By Stacey
September 15, 2008 2:07 PM | Link to this
Up until recently my son ate pretty much anything that was put in front of him except mashed potatoes. He’s 7 now and just recently started with the “I don’t eat…”. Nowadays he would eat spaghetti, fish or broccoli everyday if he could.