Making Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice

Juicing combines hand strength, transformation observation, and the social grace of preparing something to share with classmates.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Food Preparation
• Level: Ages 3-5

Objectives

• Develop hand strength through squeezing
• Experience food transformation
• Practice pouring and serving
• Build social skills through sharing

Materials

• Oranges (halved)
• Child-size citrus juicer
• Small pitcher
• Cups for serving
• Strainer (optional)
• Tray and sponge for cleanup

Instructions

1. Examine the orange—discuss parts. 2. Place half orange on juicer, cut side down. 3. Press and twist firmly. 4. Watch juice collect below. 5. Repeat with second half. 6. Pour juice through strainer into pitcher. 7. Pour small cups for friends. 8. Clean juicer and workspace.

Educator tip

Room temperature oranges yield more juice. Let children serve classmates—this builds grace, courtesy, and pride.

Assessment

Child juices oranges effectively and serves juice to others.

More from Practical Life

• Weaving on a Simple Loom
• Arranging Flowers in a Vase
• Dressing and Undressing a Baby Doll
• Using a Hole Punch
• Carrying a Chair
• Opening and Closing a Door
• Using a Dropper
• Sorting Objects by Category