The kitchen is the heart of the home and should be the place where the whole family can sit, chat, and eat. To ensure your kitchen is family friendly, make a note of these tips: Layout An open kitchen design helps you to socialise while in the kitchen. If there isn't room for a table, link the kitchen to the dining or sitting room so you don't feel apart from the family and isolated while you cook. The kitchen island above is ideal for family get-togethers. Seating Make sure you have enough places to sit to encourage family members and guests to chat to you as you cook. Stools at the countertops encourage children to help out - ideal for teaching them to cook. A kitchen island is perfect - or fit in a small table where the kids can do their homework while you are busy. Larders Keep yours organised and you will save time in the long run. See-through containers are handy because you can immediately see when you are running low of stocks. Neat rows of tins with the ...