Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Start by showing the child various food ingredients (like vegetables and grains). Ask questions such as, ‘What do you think these foods are made of?’ and ‘Where do they come from?’
Step 2Explain that processed foods have been changed from their natural form, like apple juice made from apples.
Step 3Show pictures or examples of foods in different forms (like rice and rice crackers).
Help the child sort these into groups: foods that look the same as when they were grown (unprocessed) and those that look different (processed).
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Choose a simple meal to cook together using the ingredients. Explain each step clearly and involve the child in tasks like washing vegetables or mixing ingredients.
Step 2Whilst cooking, ask the child to keep a simple tally of the processed and unprocessed ingredients being used. They can use lines to keep track, or draw the foods they think sit in each category.
Step 3Sit down to eat the meal together. Talk about the ingredients used and ask questions such as, ‘Which ones do you think are processed?’ and ‘Why do you think so?’. Let the child share their thoughts and explain their choices.
Step 4Ask the child what they learned about processed and unprocessed foods. Discuss any surprises or challenges they faced during the activity. Sum up by talking about where different foods come from and how they are prepared.
Showcase
Make
Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections.
Provide magazines or printed pictures of different foods. Ask the child to make a collage, sorting foods into groups (like fruits, vegetables, meats) and explaining what makes each group special. This hands-on project lets them show what they know and helps reinforce their understanding of different types of foods.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.
Discuss
Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what the child has learned.
Choose a thought-provoking question or topic related to the activity and hold a family debate or discussion to explore different perspectives.
Sit down together to discuss the activity, allowing each family member to share their thoughts, discoveries and questions.
Have each family member prepare a short presentation about what they have learned, using visuals like drawings or props to illustrate key points.
Write
If the activity involved a visit to a museum or community centre, write thank-you notes to any instructors or organisers, reflecting on what has been learned.
Collaborate on writing a fictional story or play inspired by the themes or concepts explored during the activity.
Reflect on what has been learned during the activity and write letters to be opened at a later date, sharing thoughts, goals and aspirations.
If the activity involved outdoor exploration, begin a nature journal to document future outdoor adventures and observations.
Plan
Brainstorm ideas for a follow-up activity or experiment inspired by what was learned during the initial activity.
Take time to reflect on how the activity could inspire new goals, discussing ways to incorporate similar experiences into your routine in the future.
If the activity involved a specific topic or field of study, reach out to experts or professionals for interviews or Q&A sessions to deepen understanding.
If you enjoyed the activity, why not share it with other families within your community? Plan a workshop or invite a friend over to re-create the experience and share your new knowledge.