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 tomato looks like under a magnifying
glass. Children will also share if they like how a Tomato feels, smells and tastes.
Learning Objectives
Children will complete the first of four
tomato tasting experiences.
Children will describe what a tomato 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 tomato for children to closely examine with magnifying glasses.
Prepare samples of tomato for the children to taste.
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 tomato around the circle and encourage each child to touch the tomato
and look at the tomato with his or her own magnifying glass.
Ask the children what tomato looks like and if they liked the way tomato 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 tomato. Encourage children to
smell the tomato before tasting it.
Summary
Enrichment
Ask children to make the shape of the letters that spell tomato with their bodies.
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.
