About

Purpose

The purpose of this lesson is to introduce a new food to the children in your classroom. The more times children are exposed to new foods, the more likely they are to eat and enjoy these foods in the future.

Overview

In this lesson, children will describe what an apricot looks like under a magnifying glass. Children will also share if they like how an apricot feels, smells, and tastes.

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will complete the first of four apricot tasting experiences.
  2. Children will describe what a apricot looks like under a magnifying glass.

Teaching Objectives

  1. Teachers will model healthy eating behavior for children.

Teaching Tips

  • Remember that the more times children are exposed to a new food, the more likely they are to develop a taste preference for that food.
  • Children are more likely to try a new food if an adult models the behavior!
  • Some children may not try the food at the first opportunity, so do not pressure them to try it as they are more likely to try it next time.

Prep Info

knife and cutting board

Equipment Required

materials

Materials/Supplies

* Optional

Before the Lesson

  • Select whole apricots for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
  • Wash the apricots to ensure they are clean and safe for tasting.
  • Prepare tasting samples of apricot for each child.
  • Ensure all food samples are cut into pieces no larger than ½ inch to prevent choking.

Activity

Introduction

This activity should work well as a circle time activity and at tables, in small groups, for tasting.

Words to Use

Activity Description

  1. Gather the children in a circle and explain that everybody is going to be a food detective. Remind the children that a good food detective uses their eyes, ears, hands, and mouth to collect clues.
  2. Pass the whole apricots around the circle and encourage each child to touch the apricot and look at it with their magnifying glass.
  3. Ask the children what the apricot looks like and if they like the way it feels on their hands.
  4. Ask the children to wash their hands and go to their tables.
  5. Provide the plate(s) of tasting samples at the tables. Encourage children to smell the apricot before tasting it.

Summary

Enrichment

“Did you know apricots grow on trees. What other fruits grow on trees? Have you ever seen a fruit tree before? What does a tree need to grow big and healthy fruit?”

Attention Teachers!

Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.

Weekly Log

Attention Teachers!

Following this activity, please fill out the teacher’s weekly log form for this lesson.