Microwave Safety With Popcorn

For kids learning to use a microwave oven, popcorn is a great-smelling way to get the hang of following instructions. When done right, there's nothing more satisfying than a tasty bag of popcorn to eat and to share.
 

Until the kids get the basics down, make sure they have plenty of supervision. Practice getting the food out of the pantry. Use a chair for the higher shelves. Find the microwave popcorn box and bring it down to the kitchen countertop.


Open it up and remove the popcorn packet from its outer packaging. Read the instructions on the back of the package and talk about which buttons on the microwave need to be pushed. Explain how every machine is different, so popcorn needs to be watched carefully. You can’t just walk away. It can be fun to stand near the machine and listen to the kernels popping. The bag shakes just a little bit as each piece explodes into a morsel of hot, buttery goodness.


A good way for kids to learn is to let them watch the timer on the microwave and guess how long it will take before the delicious aroma of popcorn starts to waft through the air to their noses.


While they are watching, waiting and smelling, they should be listening to the popcorn. As soon as it slows down, it’s time to take it out. Remember, don’t wait for the microwave to beep.


Follow the instructions on the bag for exact details and let the bag cool a bit before Mom or Dad opens it. This might be a good time to talk about steam safety and hot foods. Another handy topic of conversation to bring up while the popcorn is cooling is making sure the microwave oven is clean before and after you use it and don’t forget to throw away the wrappers.


Once it’s ready, divvy up the popcorn treat into equal bowls or eat it straight out of the bag. Add popcorn seasoning, bring along some napkins and get snacking.