Peeling a Banana

Peeling fruit builds independence and connects children to real food preparation in a manageable task.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Practical Life
• Learning area: Preliminary Exercises
• Level: Ages 3-4

Objectives

• Develop independence in food preparation
• Practice fine motor control
• Learn sequential steps

Materials

• Ripe banana
• Small plate
• Compost bowl

Instructions

1. Place banana on plate. 2. Hold banana in non-dominant hand. 3. Pinch stem with dominant hand. 4. Bend stem back to start peel. 5. Pull each section down. 6. Place peels in compost. 7. Break or cut banana for eating.

Educator tip

Ensure bananas are ripe enough for easy peeling. Show how to break the stem rather than pulling.

Assessment

Child peels banana independently and disposes of peel properly.

More from Practical Life

• Using Tongs for Transfer
• Pouring Grains
• Sorting by Size
• Opening Containers
• Folding Dish Towels
• Using a Timer
• Crinkling Paper
• Stacking and Nesting