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 squash looks like under a magnifying
glass. Children will also share if they like how a squash feels, smells, and tastes.
Learning Objectives
Children will complete the first of four
squash tasting experiences.
Children will describe what a squash looks
like under a magnifying glass.
Teaching Objectives
Teachers will model healthy eating behavior
for children.
Teaching Tips
Young children are more likely to try a new food if the behavior is modeled by
an adult.
Children may not want to try a new food. Encourage each child to take one bite.
Prep Info
Equipment Required
Materials/Supplies
* Optional
Before the Lesson
Select one whole acorn squash for children to closely examine with magnifying
glasses. Prepare samples of baked acorn squash for the children to taste.
An easy way to prepare baked acorn squash:
Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Wash the outside of the squash and cut in half, removing all seeds.
Place halves on a baking sheet hollowed side up and bake (about 60 minutes)
until tender. (Baking time may vary depending on size of squash.)
Activity
Introduction
This activity will work well as a circle time activity and at tables, in small
groups, for tasting.
Words to Use
Activity Description
Gather the children in a circle and explain that everybody is going to be a food
detective. Remind children that a good food detective uses his or her eyes,
ears, hands, and mouth to collect clues.
Pass the acorn squash around the circle and encourage each child to touch the
acorn squash and look at the acorn squash with their own magnifying glass.
Ask the children what acorn squash looks like and if they like the way acorn
squash feels on their hands.
Ask the children to wash their hands and go to their tables.
At the tables, provide each child with a sample of acorn squash. Encourage
children to smell the acorn squash before tasting it.
Summary
Enrichment
Take a field trip to a local garden. Have a discussion with your class about
gardening. Emphasize that plants need water, sunlight, and soil to grow.
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.
