Squeezing Citrus

Squeezing citrus builds hand strength while producing real, usable juice for cooking or drinking.

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

Objectives

• Develop hand strength
• Learn juicing technique
• Build food preparation skills

Materials

• Citrus reamer or juicer
• Cut citrus fruits
• Bowl
• Strainer for seeds

Instructions

1. Cut citrus in half. 2. Hold fruit cut-side down. 3. Press onto reamer point. 4. Twist back and forth. 5. Press down while twisting. 6. Remove seeds if needed. 7. Pour juice into container.

Educator tip

Room temperature fruit yields more juice. Show children to twist rather than just push.

Assessment

Child extracts juice using proper technique.

More from Practical Life

• Making a Simple Salad
• Making a Sandwich
• Mixing Batter
• Kneading Dough
• Rolling Dough
• Cracking Nuts
• Using a Mortar and Pestle
• Straining Liquids