Keeping the kids entertained while spending time at home can be a challenge, but restaurant chain Wagamama is doing its part by hosting a free family-friendly cooking class on Instagram

With the recent news that schools and universities across the UAE will remain closed until June to curb the spread of coronavirus, parents are confronted with the reality that they need to dig deeper for ways to keep their little ones entertained as the weather warms and we continue to stay inside.
Offering up something to both keep kids busy and bring the family together during this time, restaurant chain Wagamama has announced a series of free family-friendly cooking classes coming straight into homes across the region via their Instagram page.
The classes will take place on Wednesday (April 1st, 2020) between the hours of 3pm and 4pm, and the list of ingredients to whip up a mini yaki soba has already been posted, so parents can prepare.
The Japanese eatery – which opened its first restaurant in 1992, and made it’s way over to the United Arab Emirates in 2004 – wrote to its followers: “Our kids cooking classes are coming to you – virtually!”
And added in a follow-up post: “We are so excited to have you all on board with us for our first virtual kids cooking class. Our chef will be demonstrating how to make a mini yaki soba. Swipe to the see full list of ingredients. Remember to have fun.”
Once children’s E-Learning is complete for the day (see our guide to getting the most from distanced learning) this is the perfect way to get the family together and break up the day ready for the evening. Not to mention you’ll get a nice meal at the end of it.

And with studies previously demonstrating that children who help with food preparation, families that eat meals together and kids that see parents spend more time cooking leads to healthier diet choices and preferences throughout life, this is a great opportunity to introduce a new family activity as well as pass the time.
Nice work, Wagamama.
Looking for more ways to keep kids entertained as we stay indoors? Then see our round-up of free and educational ways to keep little ones busy, from virtual zoo tours to thought-provoking games.