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

Making Celery Wagons with Pinto Bean Dip is a hands-on cooking activity that works well in one large group. It introduces children to the natural crunch of celery paired with a healthy bean spread. This recipe offers a nutritious snack and can be made with pinto beans or black beans for variety. Children will enjoy "loading" their celery wagons with the smooth and flavorful bean dip!

Learning Objectives

  1. Children will explore the taste and texture of celery and beans in a fun and interactive way.
  2. Children will develop basic food preparation and fine motor skills through scooping, filling their “wagons.”

Teaching Objectives

  1. Teachers will model healthy eating behavior by participating alongside the children.
  2. Teachers will guide children in safe food handling and preparation practices.

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!

Prep Info

knife and cutting board

Equipment Required

materials

Materials/Supplies

* Optional

handwashing illustration

Before the Lesson

  • Wash and cut the celery into 3-inch pieces no wider than ½ inch, creating "wagons" for the bean dip.
  • Drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly. Be sure to dispose of the sharp lid safely.
  • Ensure all cooking tools, such as mixing bowls and forks, are ready for use.
  • Immediately before the lesson, ask the children to put on their chef aprons, chef hats, and wash their hands.

Activity

Introduction

Activity Description

  1. Prepare the Bean Dip:
    • In a mixing bowl, invite the children to help add the following ingredients one at a time:
      • Can of beans
      • Olive oil
      • Garlic powder*
      • A small pinch of salt
    • Let the children help mash the drained beans with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Celery Sticks:
    • Place the celery sticks on plates or bowls and call them “Wagons.”
    • Demonstrate how to scoop the bean dip into the center of each celery piece to fill their wagons. Talk about how the crunchy celery and flavorful bean dip go together.
  3. Serve, Taste, & Discuss:
    • Serve each student a portion. Invite them to observe, smell, and feel the food. Let them decide whether to taste it and share their thoughts or personal connections.

Summary

Enrichment

Ask the children, “What other vegetables could make good ”wagons?” Could we try using carrot sticks or cucumber slices next time?

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.