Make a hot appetizer

Can I substitute any of the tools, like the measuring spoon, butter knife, or skillet, if we don't have them?

Use a regular teaspoon to scoop about 1 teaspoon of butter, a dinner knife to spread the butter on the bread, and cook the sandwich in a nonstick pan or toaster oven on medium-low with an adult handling the heat.

My bread is browning too fast or the cheese isn't melting—what should I do?

If the bottom gets too dark during the 2-minute cook step, lower the skillet to low, cook a little longer, and cover the pan briefly after flipping so the trapped heat helps the cheese melt without burning the bread.

How can I adapt this activity for a 3‑year‑old, a 7‑year‑old, and a 12‑year‑old?

For a 3‑year‑old let them wash hands and place pre-buttered bread while an adult does the measuring, stove heating, and flipping; for a 7‑year‑old supervise them measuring, spreading butter, and placing the sandwich in the pan while the adult turns on the stove; for a 12‑year‑old let them do all steps including using the spatula on the skillet with adult supervision for the heat.

How can we make the mini grilled cheese toasts more fun or unique?

Add sliced tomato, ham, or herbs between the cheese and the bread before placing the second slice, cut cooked toasts into shapes with cookie cutters, and then share a photo of your finished mini grilled cheese toasts on DIY.org.