Autumn cooking projects for kids

Whether you're sheltering indoors from a downpour of rain, or making the most of the British hedgerows and orchards we have a plenty of ideas to keep you and the kids happy this autumn.

Last of the summer blackberries

Arm yourself and the children with baskets and containers and head into the wilderness (or the local country park) and pick yourself a fine blackberry feast. It goes without saying, but avoid hedgerows next to busy roads or areas that might be within reach of dogs.

When you get home try turning your findings into something spectacular with these child-friendly recipes. Blackberry & coconut squares are a brilliant bake for under-elevens, and the smallest hands can get involved in making this blackberry & apple loaf cake.

If you've collected a hotchpotch of fruit then Angela's flexible jam recipe is a great way of using it up, and nothing beats the aroma of bubbling jam. Keep the kids busy while you deal with hot pans by letting them loose on these pretty, printable labels - a lovely way to finish off potted jams as gifts for family and friends.

Apple festivals

This October, the great British apple (and all its varieties) are being celebrated up and down the country with a number of apple festivals hitting the streets, from apple bobbing to apple pressing to live bands and cider, there are plenty of festivals around that are fun for all the family, so it is well worth checking out local activity - and of course that give us license to tuck into a toffee apple or two as well:

But the apple love doesn't stop there, once you're home get your children to don a mini pinny and put them to work in the kitchen. These little toffee apple cakes have been specifically tailored for kids aged between 8-14, whereas children in the 3-6 range can get stuck into making sweet baked apples. Or simply cheer up a cold day by enlisting the family's help in serving apple & cinnamon hot cakes for breakfast and things are bound to feel a bit brighter.

Other seasonal cakes and bakes

Picking seasonal fruit and vegetables to cook will help your kids recognise the different seasons, especially if you browse a local market or farm shop together, then let your kids take the reins with recipes created especially for them. These courgette muffins are suitable for kids aged 8-14 years and will definitely get vegetable-dodgers thinking twice. Or help them help make their own lunchbox treats with simple recipes like sticky plum flapjack bars or apple & sultana muffins.

Remember, getting your kids involved in cooking doesn't have to be a big project, simply giving your children easy, regular jobs like grating cheese or washing lettuce should give them confidence and most of all enthusiasm in the kitchen.

What are your favourite recipes to make with children? We'd love to hear your ideas.