Launchpad - Introducing the topic (10–20 mins)
Step 1Gather a range of tinned foods and their fresh counterparts. Discuss how tinned food can look very different from the fresh version. For example, pineapple rings in a can versus a fresh uncut pineapple.
Step 2Explain the concept of tinned and fresh foods with the child. Show examples of both types and ask them to describe any differences they notice in appearance and texture. Explain how tinned food lasts longer than fresh food due to the way it is processed, either with sugar, vinegar, oil or heat.
Discover - Exploring the topic (20–30 mins)
Step 1Prepare the tinned and fresh foods so they are in separate bowls and ready to eat. Ask the child to observe and compare each item using sight, smell and touch. Use blindfolds for a sensory challenge if desired.
Step 2Guide the child to create a simple scoring system (e.g. 1-5 scale) based on criteria such as freshness, aroma and texture. Discuss why each criterion is important in judging food quality.
Step 3Explain to the child that they will now participate in a role-play as food judges on a cooking show. Provide them with props like aprons and chef hats to enhance the experience.
Ask the child to present their findings for each food item, using their scoring system to explain why they rated each tinned and fresh food the way they did. Encourage them to use descriptive language to justify their scores.
Step 4Discuss the results with the child. Ask questions like:
- Which type of food did you prefer based on your scores? Why?
- How do you think the preservation method affects the taste and texture of food?
- What other foods could you compare in a similar way?
Showcase
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.
Extend the activity by creating a recipe booklet with the child. Include the recipe they wrote and others they might want to try in the future. Encourage them to decorate the booklet with drawings or pictures related to the recipes.
Use materials from the activity to build a model or prototype of something related to the topic, fostering hands-on learning and creativity.
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
Create a recipe challenge where the child uses the preferred type of food (tinned or fresh) in a dish. This extends the learning by applying their understanding of food quality and preservation methods in a practical cooking 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.