Unless the child manages to get inside the microwave and turn it on, it is safe for children. And, yes, the microwave door needs be shut for the microwave to operate.
A piece of wax paper always works well, as does a paper towel or small plate or saucer or a larger bowl to use as a domed covering. Never use plastic wrap as it will melt and ruin the food.
To steam spinach without a steamer, you can place it in a microwave-safe bowl with a little water, cover it with a microwave-safe plate, and microwave it for a few minutes until it wilts.
To nuke something in a microwave, place the food in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe cover or paper towel, and set a cook time. Start the microwave and wait for it to finish, then let the food stand for a minute or two before removing it. Always follow the recommended cooking times for your specific microwave and type of food.
To steam asparagus in the microwave, place the asparagus in a microwave-safe dish with a little water, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and cook on high for 2-4 minutes until tender. Be careful when removing the dish from the microwave, as it will be hot.
To safely and effectively cook tilapia in the microwave, place the fish in a microwave-safe dish, season it as desired, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and cook on high for 3-4 minutes per fillet. Check for doneness by ensuring the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Be cautious of hot steam when removing the cover.
To efficiently cook chickpeas using a microwave, rinse them and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with water. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plate and cook on high for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender. Drain and season as desired.
It should be, as long as the coating on the plate is not foil.
To safely cook food in a microwave without radiation exposure, use microwave-safe containers and cover food with a microwave-safe lid or vented plastic wrap. Follow cooking instructions and avoid standing directly in front of the microwave while it's in use. Check for any leaks or damage to the microwave door seal and maintain a safe distance while the microwave is operating.
To airpop popcorn in the microwave, place 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels in a microwave-safe bowl with a microwave-safe cover. Cook on high for about 2-4 minutes, or until there are 2-3 seconds between pops. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it will be hot. Enjoy your airpopped popcorn!
To cook instant rice in the microwave, place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, add water according to package instructions, cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and microwave on high for the specified time. Let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.
To cook basmati rice in the microwave, rinse the rice, add it to a microwave-safe bowl with water, cover the bowl with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and cook on high for about 10-12 minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork and serving.