Did you know? It's National Cookie Day! Not that we need an excuse to eat cookies, but we'll take it! And you know what's even more fun than eating cookies? Okay, maybe not more fun, but equally so… baking cookies together as a family! And then devouring them as a family, obviously.

Those of you with little kids can still bake together as a family with the implementation of some safety rules and boundaries in the kitchen, such as…

1. How to handle knives? Are your children old enough to use them? If so, make sure they know they must be supervised while using a knife. If they are too young, remind them that only grown-ups are allowed to use knives.
2. No touching a hot stove!
3. Ask before touching pots and pans as they may be hot.
4. No double dipping! Use a clean utensil for tasting, and keep your fingers to yourselves!
5. Wash hands frequently.
6. And always ask a grown-up for help when needed.

Once these ground rules are laid out, you can begin! 

First what you want to do is prep the space. Clear the cooking area of any sharp objects, breakable objects (or family heirlooms), or cords that might get tangled or in the way. Put away any alcohol or cleaning supplies or small items that children might accidentally swallow, and hide the plastic wrap. If you need to have any of these items out for yourself or any other adults in the room, consider sectioning off a "kid zone" and a "grown up zone" while cooking. It also helps to do the prep work before you bring the kiddos into the fray.

Next you'll want to make sure that the humans are prepped. Are you wearing the proper clothing? Are your children wearing the proper clothing? Is little Sally sure she wants to wear her favorite princess dress when it might get covered in flour and chocolate? Instead, make your kids feel like little chefs by handing out aprons for everyone to protect clothing. Then get tie up long hair and remove any jewelry.

And before you begin you'll want to ensure that everyone has washed their hands. Not only does it make for a safe cooking environment, it's just simply a good habit to have.

Speaking of cleanliness and good habits, cooking is a great time to teach your little ones to clean up after themselves. Did they spill the baking powder? No worries! You can show them how easy it is to clean up as they go and how nice it is to have a tidy kitchen when you're done.

Now, we're not going to do all this cookie talk without leaving you with something delectable. That would just be cruel. So in the name of human decency, we've provided a delicious, kid-friendly cookie recipe to make and devour on National Cookie Day.

Easy-to-Make Butter Cookies

Ingredients:

3/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 large egg

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

 Nonpareil sprinkles

How to make

STEP 1

Heat oven to 400°F.

STEP 2

Combine sugar, butter and egg in bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed. Add all remaining ingredients except sprinkles; beat at low speed, scraping bowl often, until well mixed.

STEP 3

Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll in sprinkles. Place, 2 inches apart, onto ungreased cookie sheets. Flatten slightly with bottom of glass. Bake 6-8 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely. Store in airtight container at room temperature.

Enjoy!