Cracking Nuts
Cracking nuts builds hand strength and teaches safe use of lever-type tools.
- Framework: Montessori
- Unit: Practical Life
- Learning area: Food Preparation
- Level: Ages 4-6
Objectives
- Learn nutcracker use
- Develop hand strength
- Build food preparation skills
Materials
- Nutcracker
- Nuts in shell (walnuts, hazelnuts)
- Bowl for nuts
- Bowl for shells
Instructions
1. Select nut from bowl. 2. Position in nutcracker jaws. 3. Hold nutcracker firmly. 4. Squeeze handles together. 5. Listen for crack. 6. Remove nut meat. 7. Place shell in waste bowl. 8. Place nut in food bowl.
Educator tip
Show children where to position different nut shapes. Start with softer-shelled nuts.
Assessment
Child cracks nuts safely without crushing nut meat.