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

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will complete the first of four bean tasting experiences.
  2. Children will describe what a bean 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

equipment

Equipment Required

materials

Materials/Supplies

* Optional

Before the Lesson

  • Set aside dried beans for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
  • Drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly.
    • This helps remove excess sodium and starchy texture.
    • Be sure to dispose of the sharp lid safely.
  • Prepare tasting samples of canned beans for each child.

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.
    • Teachers, remind students never to put dry beans or other small objects in their nose or ears.
  2. Pass the dried beans around the circle and encourage each child to touch the bean and look at it with their magnifying glass.
  3. Ask the children what the bean 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 beans before tasting them.

Summary

Enrichment

“Did you know beans grow in pods on plants? Some are green, like green beans, and some are dried, like black or pinto beans. Have you heard the story of 'Jack and the Beanstalk'? Let’s imagine what kind of bean might be magic!”

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.