Sorting Food Choices with Hula Hoops

Materials Required:

Two hula hoops
Labels: “Healthy Choices,” “Sometimes Foods,” and “Unhealthy Choices”
Assorted play food items or pictures of food items
Picnic basket (optional for thematic presentation)
Steps Involved:

Place two hula hoops on the carpet, overlapping them slightly to create a Venn diagram.
Label the sections of the hula hoops: one for “Healthy Choices,” one for “Unhealthy Choices,” and the overlapping section for “Sometimes Foods.”
Gather the students around the hula hoops and introduce the concept of sorting food into different categories based on their healthiness.
Bring out food items from the picnic basket one at a time and work with the students to decide where each item belongs.
Discuss each choice with the class, explaining why a particular food is considered healthy, sometimes, or unhealthy.
For items that generate debate, like cold meats or dairy products, use the discussion to explore different perspectives and encourage students to think critically.
After all the food items have been placed, review the Venn diagram and discuss the importance of making healthy food choices.
Optionally, check your local food guide to ensure the activity aligns with current dietary recommendations.