Keeping kids busy all summer long can be a challenge, especially if they try to alternate between the Wii and the TV. I put mine in the kitchen and get them to make their own treats. Raoul ( 14 year old) did exceptionally well and churned out 2 great tasting cookies; Double chocolate chip and Raisin oatmeal cookies. The oatmeal raisin were chewy and fruity while the chocolate chip ones were light and airy with a pecan in every bite. The only help he got from me was with the tasting!

Raoul's Raisin Oatmeal cookies:

1 1/4 cups all purpose flour

3/4 tbsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp allspice

Pinch of salt

8 0z (2 sticks) unsalted butter at room temperature, cut into small pieces

1/3 cup granulated sugar

2/3 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

2 cups quick cooking(not instant) rolled oats

1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped walnuts

2 cups dried raisins

1. Sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, allspice and salt. Set aside.

2. Soften the butter in a large bowl. Add the granulated and brown sugars and continue to mix until fluffy, stopping the machine and scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. Lower speed and add eggs, 1 at a time. Add the flour mixture and beat until just combined. Mix in the remaining ingredients.

3. Scrape out of bowl and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate 2 to 3 hours, or overnight.

4. Position rack in the center of oven and preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line 2 baking trays with parchment paper.

5. Remove dough from the refrigerator and using an ice cream scoop, scoop out balls and flatten them, setting them a few inches apart. Bake for about 15 minutes.