Your Child Moving Into Their First Home? Kitchen Must-Haves

One of the most significant rites of passage of young adulthood is moving into your own place. If you are a parent of a child who is getting ready to do just that, you may be considering building a housewarming basket to welcome your child to their new place, and one of the best rooms to focus on with that gift basket is the kitchen. The kitchen is, arguably, one of the most used rooms in the house. It's a destination for gathering, visiting, feeding, and more. Here are some ideas of some things you should consider adding to that basket. With these tips, you can help your child turn their new kitchen into a place where they want to spend time, where they can display their own personality, and where they feel at home.

Kitchen Tools

One of the hardest things to stock up when you're moving into your first place is kitchen tools.  If this is your child's first kitchen, your goal should be to give them things that they wouldn't think to buy but will make it more functional. Consider adding some of the convenient things that you use on a regular basis in your own kitchen. This might include a garlic press, utensils, or baking pans. You may also want to consider storage canisters, small appliances, and other convenience items as well.

Cookbooks

Whether you buy a few small cookbooks with basic recipes, or you create some with old family recipes and favorites, including cookbooks in the basket will help your child bring a taste of home into their own kitchen. Gauge your child's skill level and choose recipes that won't be overwhelming to him or her. That way, you don't have to worry about him or her giving up.

Gift Cards

Consider including some gift cards to some of the local grocery stores, kitchen stores, and other household supply stores. That way, as your child settles in and realizes that there are other things that he or she might need, there's no worry about having the money to cover those things. Plus, you can rest assured that grocery money won't be a problem, at least for a little while.

Kitchen Decor

Finally, in addition to the functional stuff, you should also get some decorative items. Although this might seem less important, decoration and personality can really brighten up a room and help your child feel like he or she belongs in his or her new place. To liven up your child's kitchen, consider gifting them things like funny fridge magnets, wall decals, and curtains. Choose gifts like these that will help your child make their kitchen really reflect their personality. Personalized decorations, though seemingly simple, can make a big difference in how the kitchen feels.