(NC) -- When the winter doldrums hit, there's no better way to heat up children's imaginations – and warm their tummies – than creative time in the kitchen. Today's appliances, accessories and tools are even making it easy.

When it's cold outside for example, nothing is more comforting than a hot bowl of soup. For a quick and delicious meal, prepare the ingredients from your favourite recipe in advance and help your child throw them into a soup/beverage maker – like the Blend 'N Cook by Cuisinart. And for kids who love mushing things, help them blend bananas, berries and yogurt into kid-friendly and healthy smoothies.

But surely, their favourite thing to bake is dessert.

Cake pops are a big hit with kids of all ages. Retailers such as Sears carry Cake Pop makers, like the one from Baby Cakes. This popular appliance lets you create bite-sized morsels which kids they can decorate themselves. As an added benefit, it's easy to clean.

Today's stand mixers, like the KitchenAid Artisan series, come in vibrant, eye-catching colours, all of which appeal to kids as much as helping you to make batter for their favourite cakes or cookies. The end result is a delicious treat for the whole family to enjoy.

Time spent in the kitchen with your kids will not only give them an outlet for their creativity, but it will also create learning opportunities and lasting memories. Now isn't that as tempting as the treats you will make together?

More information about modern kitchens is available online at www.sears.ca.