Target Age Group:
Preschoolers (Ages 3-5) Grade Level: Pre-K
Goals:
By the end of this unit study, preschoolers will be able to:
- Identify and name different types of nutritious foods.
- Understand the importance of a balanced diet and healthy eating habits.
- Recognize the role of various food groups in maintaining good health.
- Develop an appreciation for the connection between food and energy.
- Gain a basic understanding of the benefits of healthy eating.
Schedule: 5-Day Plan
Day 1: Introduction to Nutrition
- Introduce the concept of nutrition and its significance.
- Discuss different types of foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, etc.).
- Read books about healthy eating.
- Activity: Create a “My Plate” collage with food pictures.
Day 2: Fruit and Veggie Power
- Explore the importance of fruits and vegetables in a balanced diet.
- Discuss the vitamins and nutrients they provide.
- Engage in a fruit and vegetable tasting activity.
- Activity: Create a fruit and vegetable rainbow craft.
Day 3: Grain Goodness
- Focus on whole grains and their role in providing energy.
- Discuss the benefits of whole grain foods.
- Engage in a whole grain sensory activity.
- Activity: Create a paper plate grain collage.
Day 4: Protein and Dairy Delights
- Discover the importance of protein and dairy products.
- Discuss the role of protein in building muscles.
- Engage in a protein-rich food matching game.
- Activity: Create a “Protein Power” badge.
Day 5: Building Healthy Habits
- Explore the concept of healthy eating habits.
- Discuss the importance of drinking water and being physically active.
- Engage in a water drinking challenge and simple exercises.
- Activity: Create a “Healthy Habits” chart.
Resource List:
Books:
- “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle – Amazon Link
- “Eating the Alphabet: Fruits and Vegetables from A to Z” by Lois Ehlert – Amazon Link
- “Gregory, the Terrible Eater” by Mitchell Sharmat – Amazon Link
Videos:
- “Healthy Eating for Kids” by Kids Learning Tube – YouTube Link
- “Fruits and Vegetables Song” by Kids Learning Videos – YouTube Link
- “My Plate Song” by Have Fun Teaching – YouTube Link
Activities:
- “My Plate” Collage – Create a collage with pictures of foods representing different food groups.
- Fruit and Vegetable Tasting Activity – Allow children to taste various fruits and vegetables.
- Fruit and Vegetable Rainbow Craft – Create a rainbow using fruit and vegetable cutouts.
- Whole Grain Sensory Activity – Let children touch and feel different whole grains.
- Protein-Rich Food Matching Game – Match protein-rich foods to their sources.
- “Protein Power” Badge – Create badges to celebrate eating protein-rich foods.
- “Healthy Habits” Chart – Chart water intake and physical activities.