A Good Plate of Food
Infants build early awareness of body and routine through repetition and sensory input. 'A Good Plate of Food' lays groundwork for future health habits.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Health, Safety and Hygiene
- Learning area: Understanding the World
- Level: EYFS Birth-2
Objectives
- Respond to caregiver voice
- Visually track body images
- Explore textures
- Begin associating routines with safety and hygiene
Instructions
Materials
- Three soft, plush toy vegetables or fruits.
- A clean, plastic plate with a smooth surface.
- A high-contrast picture book featuring clear images of healthy foods.
- A soft, textured fabric square for sensory exploration.
- A small basket for holding the items.
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate visual tracking by following the movement of food items.
- Engage in sensory exploration by touching and grasping different textures.
- Respond to the teacher's voice and descriptive language during play.
- Show curiosity by reaching toward the presented objects.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Place the infants in a comfortable, seated position or on their backs on a clean mat.
2. Sit directly in front of the infants to ensure they can see your face and expressions.
3. Hold up one plush vegetable and name it clearly, such as saying, "This is a red tomato."
4. Allow the infant to reach for the object, encouraging them to touch the texture of the fabric.
5. Place the plush food onto the plastic plate and tap the plate gently to create a soft sound.
6. Narrate the action by saying, "The food goes on the plate."
7. Show the infant a picture of the same food in the book to connect the object to the image.
8. Repeat this process with two additional food items, keeping the pace slow and responsive to the infant's interest.
9. Conclude the activity by placing all items back into the basket together.
Educator Tip
Infants have very short attention spans, so keep the session brief and stop immediately if the child shows signs of overstimulation or disinterest. You can differentiate this activity by using real fruits with distinct scents, such as a lemon or a strawberry, to add an olfactory dimension to the sensory experience.
Assessment
- Observe if the infant turns their head toward the sound of the plate or the teacher's voice.
- Record whether the infant reaches for or attempts to grasp the plush food items.
- Note if the infant maintains focus on the objects for a brief period during the demonstration.
Educator tip
Keep stimulation low; follow infant cues; sanitize props; avoid small parts.
Assessment
Observe and note: sustained engagement, sensory responses, early vocalisations, and attachment behaviours. Document using the Characteristics of Effective Learning framework (Playing and Exploring). Observe gaze, sensory response, and regulation.