Objective
By the end of this lesson, the toddler will be able to understand the importance of healthy habits and demonstrate knowledge of basic health practices.
Materials and Prep
- Water bottle
- Healthy snack (e.g., apple slices)
- Picture cards of healthy and unhealthy foods
- Large paper or whiteboard
- Markers or chalk
- Access to a sink
Prior to the lesson, familiarize yourself with the picture cards and prepare the large paper or whiteboard for drawing and writing.
Activities
- Start by discussing the importance of staying hydrated. Show the toddler the water bottle and explain that drinking water helps keep our bodies healthy and strong. Encourage the toddler to take sips of water throughout the lesson.
- Introduce the concept of healthy eating. Show the picture cards of healthy and unhealthy foods. Ask the toddler to identify each food item and sort them into two categories: healthy and unhealthy. Discuss why certain foods are better for our bodies.
- Engage the toddler in a mini cooking activity. Use the healthy snack (e.g., apple slices) and demonstrate how to prepare it. Encourage the toddler to participate by washing their hands and helping with simple tasks, such as placing the apple slices on a plate.
- While enjoying the healthy snack, have a conversation about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. Ask the toddler questions like, "What color is this apple?" or "What does it taste like?" to encourage engagement and understanding.
- Wrap up the lesson by creating a visual representation of healthy habits. Draw a simple outline of a person on the large paper or whiteboard. Ask the toddler to help you fill in the drawing with healthy habits, such as exercising, brushing teeth, and getting enough sleep. Discuss why these habits are important for our overall health.
Toddler Grade Talking Points
- "Water helps our bodies stay healthy and strong. Let's take sips of water together."
- "Can you show me which foods are good for our bodies? Let's sort them into healthy and unhealthy."
- "Let's wash our hands and prepare a healthy snack together. Washing our hands keeps germs away."
- "What color is this apple? How does it taste? Eating fruits and vegetables helps our bodies grow."
- "Let's draw a person and fill it with healthy habits. Exercising, brushing our teeth, and getting enough sleep are important for our health."