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  • Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)

    Step 1

    Arrange packaged foods around a table in front of the child. Explain that packaging design plays an important role in what we decide to buy at the supermarket and what they might choose for their lunchbox.

    Step 2

    Explain how package designers use shapes, colours, and sizes to create packaging that appeals to kids. Discuss how bright colours, fun shapes, and favourite characters from cartoons or movies might grab their attention and make them choose that food item from the supermarket shelf. Point out how interactive features like games, puzzles or prizes might also influence their decisions.

    Step 3

    Mention that aside from looking appealing, packaging materials should also be safe, good for the environment and easy to use. Use examples such as:

    • Biodegradable plastic or recycled paper packaging
    • Packaging with zip locks or special tabs that keep them closed for freshness.

  • Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)

    Step 1

    Ask the child to rank the packages based on a given feature, playing them in order along the bench. You can do multiple rounds, each focusing on a different feature:

    • Round 1: Rank by favourite to least favourite colours.
    • Round 2: Rank by most to least interesting or fun pictures/characters.
    • Round 3: Rank by favourite to least favourite names.
    Step 2

    After each ranking, have the child explain their choices. Discuss with the child how these features can make a package more attractive and why certain features might be used to try and get someone to buy it (marketing).

    Step 3

    Review the child’s choices and discuss any patterns they notice. Ask questions like:

    • Why did you choose that package as your favourite colour?
    • How did the picture or character influence your choice?
    • What makes a product name sound good to you?

Showcase

– Sharing the outcomes (15+ mins)
Select any option from the table or try our recommendation.

  • Make

    Create a game related to the activity, such as a trivia game or charades, to reinforce learning in a fun way.

    Record a video documenting the activity, including interviews with those involved sharing their insights and reflections. This may include filming each step of the flower-pressing process or the child explaining the parts of the flower that they have labelled on their flower-press diagram.

    Compile photos, drawings and notes from the activity into a scrapbook, highlighting what has been learned and enjoyed.

    Have the child use the materials from the activity to create a prototype of a new food package. They can combine elements they liked from different packages and add their own creative touches. Discuss why they chose certain colours, shapes, or features and how these might influence others’ choices.

  • Discuss

    Choose an object or aspect of the activity to present to the rest of the family, explaining its significance and what they 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 has been 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.

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