Making fresh pasta is a wonderfully hands-on activity for young children that involves kneading, pouring, and working with simple ingredients. Please note: if your child has an egg allergy, this recipe may not be suitable. Always check for allergens before beginning.
Age: From approximately 16 months (with close adult involvement)
Materials: Apron / Rolling pin / Large bowl / Pasta machine (adult-operated) / Small bowl for extra flour / Flour and eggs as per your chosen recipe
The Activity
- Wash hands and put on aprons together — flour makes for a happy mess, so the apron is particularly useful here.
- Measure the flour and eggs into a large bowl. Invite the child to watch and help stir the mixture together with a spatula or spoon until roughly combined.
- Once the dough begins to come together, invite the child to knead it with their hands in the bowl or on a lightly floured surface. This is often a favourite step — squeezing, pressing, and folding dough is satisfying and excellent for developing hand strength.
- Dust with a little extra flour as needed if the dough is sticky. The child can help sprinkle this.
- Allow the dough to rest for a short time if your recipe requires it.
- Rolling and using the pasta machine is done by the adult — the child can observe and help catch the pasta as it comes through.
- The cooked pasta can be served and enjoyed together — an extra reward for all the effort!
This post is intended for general informational purposes only; please consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your child’s individual needs.
