It always seems that both my kids (2 & 3) find it necessary to be in the kitchen with my while I'm trying to make dinner. I'm tripping over them and telling the oldest to get off the counter. With my little one, I put him in his highchair in the kitchen while I'm cooking so he can watch. This way is out from under me and is occupied b/c I'm right there. Give them a small snack to tide him over until dinner (fruit puffs or cherrios for example). This seems to help me out a bit and keep him out of my way
Good luck!