During this session we discussed what health is and how to help the children to understand what health is and how to keep themselves healthy. I have planned some lessons relating to what we learned and discussed, particularly focusing on food health.

Lesson Plan 1

On the tables in the classroom, lay out a variety of food in bowls as well as a bowl full of sugar cubes. The children will be split into teams and then in each team should take turns guessing how many sugar cubes they think are in each food product by placing a number of sugar cubes next to each bowl. Once every team has guessed, the teacher will put the correct amount of sugar cubes next to each food which will surprise the children as it will probably not be what they expect. This is an interactive lesson which means that the children will feel more interested in what we are learning about. It also involves problem solving and team work. The competitiveness amongst the teams will motivate the children further. This is a fun way to educate them on how sugary some of our food products are. Being able to see all of the sugar cubes may have more of an impact on the children as well because they have a visual of the sheer volume of sugar. The teacher can then discuss with the children how these foods contribute to a healthy diet.

Lesson Plan 2

At each table, lay out packaging from a variety of healthy and unhealthy foods. Ask the children to work together, looking closely at the sugars on the food packaging putting them into piles of healthy and unhealthy foods. The teacher can then discuss with the children the impact that healthy and unhealthy foods can have on them.

Lesson Plan 3

Using the knowledge gained from the previous lessons, the children can design and create their own food diaries. They can customise/decorate their diaries to make them personal which will motivate them to actually use them. For 1 week, each time they eat a meal they can write down what they ate. This will allow them to reflect on their own diets and because they are paying close attention to what they’re eating this may encourage them to make healthier choices.