If you're looking for some fun, DIY family activities you can launch from home, consider these healthy, kid-friendly recipes! It's never a bad time to roll up the sleeves and get the kids involved in baking or cooking, but it's especially relevant this time of year as September 13th is #NationalKidsTakeOverTheKitchenDay!

To give you a little kitchen inspiration, we're rounding up a handful of recipes that leverage our Pure Kidz Protein. At 23g of protein per serving and a delicious vanilla flavoring, it's the perfect universal ingredient for plenty of healthy options! So toss on some MasterChef Jr episodes on the TV and kick back while your kids go to town making some of the recipes below! Encourage them to share photo updates on Instagram and Snapchat with their friends to see which family can make the best food! 

Breakfast
Encourage your kids to put their spin on some Power Pancakes. According to expert food guru, Alton Brown, here's what they'll need! 

To get that extra power kick, simply add 1.5 scoops of Pure Kidz Protein into the mix at the same time as the instant pancake powder. If your family is feeling extra bold, a little cacao, fresh cut strawberries, and a hint of powdered sugar on top really take these pancakes to the next level!

Brunch
Cooking experience may certainly vary house by house, but a blender is a great equalizer, and that's where a PBB&C Protein Smoothie (peanut butter, banana, and chocolate) comes in perfect!

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Frozen Bananas
• 1.5 Scoops of Pure Kidz Protein
• 1 Scoop Chocolate PB2 Powder
• Almond Milk
• Ice Cubes
• Splash of Coffee (for mom and dad)
• 1 Tablespoon Chia Seeds
• 1 Tablespoon Flax 

STEPS

1. Fill blender halfway with almond milk.
2. Add a handful of ice cubes and bananas.
3. Sprinkle in protein powder, peanut butter powder, coffee, chia, and flax.
4. Blend on medium for 30-seconds or until smoothie reaches desired texture.
5. Pour and enjoy!

Snacks
Try this fresh take on Homemade "AussieBites" from The Stay at Home Chef. For an extra dose of premium protein, simply add in 2 scoops of Pure Kidz vanilla powder during Step 2. It'll not only elevate the flavor but round out a healthy snack that's ideal between sports or class.

Want More?
A little creativity goes a long way, and everyone knows kids often get mighty creative in the kitchen. Steer them toward other homerun options like muffins, puddings, crepes and other evolutions of kitchen staples that lean on a solid protein base.

Men's Journal has this great piece on 12 great uses for protein powder. 

Or check out these 41 innovative options from The Greatist 

Shoot, they've even come up with a Pumpkin Protein Burger if you're craving a little autumn flavor in your life.

Tips and Tricks for Keeping It Fun
At the end of the day, September 13th is supposed to be all about empowering kids to take over the kitchen. Mix up the roles and encourage your children to think outside the box. Have them do some research up front to determine what ingredients they might need and offer to do an extra grocery run. Laugh at the mess that ensues in your pristine kitchen and savor the opportunity to clean up as a family. There are bound to be a few mishaps along the way, but a family that sets up intentional time to dine together will find conversation, common ground, and joy.

Who knows? Maybe #NationalKidsTakeOverTheKitchenDay may just inspire a new weekly or monthly tradition. And best of all, your kids will not only learn new skills but double down on a healthy diet!