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

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will complete the first of four cabbage tasting experiences.
  2. Children will describe what a cabbage 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 may not want to try a new food. Encourage each child to take one bite.
  • 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 head of cabbage for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
  • Wash the cabbage to ensure it is clean and safe for tasting.
  • Prepare tasting samples of cabbage 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 cabbage around the circle and encourage each child to touch the cabbage and look at it with their magnifying glass.
  3. Ask the children what the cabbage 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 cabbage before tasting it.

Summary

Enrichment

“Did you know that cabbages grow in a big round ball called a head? The head has lots of leafy layers. Pretend to peel back those layers like you are opening a present. Let's pretend together.”

Attention Teachers!

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

Evaluation

Attention Teachers!

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