Materials Required:
Assorted play food items representing different food groups (e.g., fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, dairy)
Small plates or bowls
Labels for each food group (e.g., “Fruits,” “Vegetables,” “Protein,” “Grains,” “Dairy”)
Steps Involved:
Begin the lesson by introducing the basic food groups and discussing examples of foods that belong in each group.
Place the labeled plates or bowls on a table or floor, each labeled with a different food group.
Provide the students with a collection of play food items.
Ask the students to sort the play food into the correct plates or bowls based on their food group.
As the students place each item, encourage them to discuss why they think the item belongs in that particular group.
After all items are sorted, review the selections as a class, discussing any corrections or additional insights.
Reinforce the lesson by talking about the importance of including a variety of food groups in a balanced diet.