This past weekend, my oldest begged me to let him make cookies.

He is entering the season where he can be trusted with more responsibilities. But I struggle not to micromanage him in my kitchen. My kitchen is where I can escape and decompress; letting him into that space was challenging.

On Saturday, I decided to try to step back, let him in, and watch him create something yummy.

I had everything out and ready for him. That diminished the need for control. With having things out ready for him made the whole process smooth and enjoyable for me and him.

While he mixed up the dough, he added the flour too quickly, and he got covered with flour. Instead of stepping in and cleaning up right away, I watched him figure out the kitchen aid. I let him learn the speeds and how to not get flour everywhere again.

I got to watch my little boy problem-solve. I got to watch him thrive and rise to the new challenges of baking!

When I embrace the mess I allow for mistakes. I enjoy the process without the expectations of perfection. I enter these moments with a heart of grace and compassion.

So, when you are having your littles help, take a breath. Realize they will make a mess, they will learn from the mess. And while it is hard to relinquish that control – do it. The time will be more enjoyable for you and for your little helper.