A mud kitchen is a really fun way outdoor play activity that will keep kids busy for hours. Don’t be afraid of the mess, we have ideas for that part, too. Mud Kitchens allow children to use multiple senses, storytelling, and imagination while exploring, playing, and creating.
Most of the items for your mud kitchen are at your fingertips in your home. So, an outdoor mud kitchen is also easy and inexpensive to put together. I did include links to Amazon for your convenience. I also highly recommend visiting local consignment shops for all sorts of interesting and inexpensive materials for a mud kitchen.
Plastic items are obviously the cheapest option but not super environmentally friendly. Also, remember that you can always wash the items used in your child’s mud play. Don’t be afraid of the mud pies!
The first step to building a mud kitchen is to find the ideal spot in your yard. It doesn’t have to be big but having your mud kitchen in a visible spot is helpful as you can go about your day while your child enjoys playing. Oh, it is also helpful to be near a water source.
Kitchen Items for a Mud Kitchen
Kitchen pretend play is a fun activity with a real-life practical application! Perfect, right? Kids learn basic practical life skills on their own terms while exploring and creating. Plus the stories that come out of kitchen pretend play is full of imagination!
- Cheese grater
- Sifter
- Strainer
- Empty condiment bottles
- Baster
- Mixing spoons
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer
- Funnels
- Mixing bowls (nice to have tops with the bowls to allow for an open and close activity)
- Dish soap
- Water pitcher
- Cooking with Kids Set
Food Items for Mud Kitchen
- Food coloring
- Vinegar(definitely dilute with water!)
- Baking soda (Get a ton! My kids go through a ton of baking soda when playing!)
- Rice
- Pasta
Home Repair & Household Items for Mud Kitchen
How to Organize your Mud Kitchen
Art Supplies for Outdoors