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 a banana looks like under a magnifying glass. Children will also share if they like how a banana feels, smells, and tastes.

Learning Objectives

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

Teaching Objectives

  1. Teachers will model healthy eating behavior by participating alongside the 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 one whole banana for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
  • Wash the banana peel to ensure it is clean and safe for tasting.
  • Prepare tasting samples of banana for each child
    • Optional: Leave banana peel on when preparing samples to allow children to peel their own sample before tasting. Slice one side of the peel to allow for easy opening.
  • 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 banana around the circle and encourage each child to touch the banana and look at it with their magnifying glass.
  3. Ask the children what the banana 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 banana before tasting it.

Summary

Enrichment

“Let’s imagine how bananas grow! They grow on trees in big clusters called bunches. Pretend to pick a banana from a tree. Now peel your banana and take a bite. Let’s act it out together!”

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.