Create an ingredients list for a meal you'll cook

What can we use instead of paper if we don't have any to 'write the meal name at the top of your paper'?

Use a smartphone or tablet notes app to type the meal name at the top and list recipe names and ingredient quantities instead of writing on paper.

How do we combine quantities when recipes use different units during the 'write down every ingredient with the quantity' and 'add up any duplicate ingredients' steps?

Convert all measurements to the same unit using an online conversion chart or kitchen scale before you add duplicate ingredients so your pantry totals are accurate.

How can we change the activity for different ages while doing steps like checking the pantry and estimating prices?

For preschoolers, let them choose the meal and stick labels on items you already have during the pantry and fridge check, while older kids can read recipes, total duplicate ingredients, estimate prices and package sizes, and prepare the shopping plan to post on DIY.org.

Any ideas to make the activity more interesting after we've grouped items into store sections and estimated a shopping budget?

Turn it into a personalized project by photographing pantry items for your list, adding brand or allergy notes next to items, creating a printable checklist sorted by store section, and comparing receipts to your estimated shopping budget after the trip.