Cooking in families can be a battlefield – not knives drawn, but definitely some overcooked broccoli and questionable pasta. My kids have made their preferences clear: mum’s cooking wins every time. As a single mum with my girls from Sunday afternoon to Friday afternoon, I can’t help but wonder – is it just familiarity, or am I genuinely better in the kitchen? And why do they always seem to come home craving my meals after a weekend with their dad?
Breaking the Stereotypes
First, let’s bust some myths. Dads aren’t clueless in the kitchen, no matter how many jokes we make. According to a survey by YouGov, about 46% of dads say they cook multiple times a week, and they’ve even got their “signature dishes” to brag about. When the kids are at their dad’s from Friday to Sunday, I know they’re getting fed, just in his own unique, shall we say, “creative” way.
Mums, on the other hand, are often the routine champions. A study by Pew Research Center shows that 80% of mums handle most of the meal prep. Our secret weapon is consistency. We’ve mastered multi-tasking: stirring the pot while listening to school gossip, managing sibling rivalry, and squeezing in an impromptu life lesson – all in one go.
Why Do My Kids Prefer My Cooking?
When my kids come back on Sundays, the first thing they ask is what’s for dinner. It’s not that their dad doesn’t try – it’s that they crave familiarity. When I make dinner, they can count on the “good old standards” – whether it’s a creamy pasta bake, chicken fajitas, or the chocolate cake that solves all problems. Studies show that kids thrive on routine, and there’s a comfort in knowing exactly what to expect when it comes to food.
At their dad’s, meals are more of a wildcard – sometimes it’s a classic like hotdogs, other times, it’s “Dad’s experimental surprise,” which usually means adding whatever’s left in the fridge. And while that can be fun, after a couple of meals of cereal-for-dinner creativity, the kids start to miss the predictable comfort of mum’s spaghetti and garlic bread.
Dads in the Kitchen: Let’s Be Fair
Now, am I being a little biased? Absolutely. After all, my kids aren’t the most neutral judges. But credit where it’s due – dads are stepping up. The rise of dad bloggers and food influencers is proof that plenty of dads are showing off their skills beyond burnt toast. The internet is full of #DadCooksDinner and “BBQ Master” dads who are determined to prove that they’re more than just breakfast chefs.
And when my girls return, they talk about their dad’s “famous” barbecue night or the time he made the “best” (read: least burned) pizza. For them, dad’s kitchen is about adventure. And maybe that’s what makes the difference: at dad’s, it’s always a bit of a gamble. But back at mum’s, it’s about home.
The Comfort of Mum’s Kitchen
For my kids, Sunday dinner at my place means comfort. It’s their safe zone after a weekend of fun, chaos, and dad’s version of meals. It’s not that dad’s cooking is bad (okay, maybe sometimes it is), it’s just that they find comfort in my simple routine – a warm stew or my no-fail mac and cheese. These are the things they want after a long, adventurous weekend.
Why Routine Matters
According to child development experts, routines help kids feel safe and in control. So, maybe it’s not just about the food itself, but about how it’s served, and what it represents: home, stability, and love. Every single mum knows that food can be more than just nourishment – it can be an anchor.
The Final Scoop: A Balanced Kitchen Battle
Do my kids prefer my cooking? Absolutely. But it’s more about the routine and connection that comes with it. Whether it’s my steady classics or dad’s risky casseroles, both offer something unique. In my kitchen, there’s a sense of comfort after a weekend away, while at dad’s, there’s fun and a touch of unpredictability. And maybe that’s the beauty of it – together, we’re giving them the best of both worlds.
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Curious about the chaos of managing parenting across two homes? Check out my post on co-parenting chaos and unexpected teamwork to see how we navigate those ups and downs.
Parents, what about you? Are your kids particular about whose cooking they prefer, or is it just my two? Let me know in the comments – because I’m sure there are more “Dad Specials” out there waiting to be exposed!