July Monthly Action Idea
Discover Smart Servings
Sometimes it is not WHAT you eat, but HOW MUCH. Choose smart servings. Added fat and sugar content are a clue to serving size.
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Abilene High School Kids Read Food Labels and Discover Smart Servings
| Activity Idea: | Looking at Portion Sizes | ||
| Source: | Healthy Kids Challenge, A La Cart, Snack Fun booklet | ||
| Description: | Kids compare calorie amounts and portion sizes of different foods | ||
| Grade: | 4-5 | ||
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Directions:
- In class, set-up a display table with the foods and serving sizes listed under supplies
- Begin by asking kids to guess which of the displayed food items has the most calories.
- Take a vote for each item (for added physical movement, have students stand-up to vote rather than just raise their hands), and record the votes on the blackboard.
- Discuss the correct answer: They are ALL about the same, with approximately 240 calories. Note: Most people will think the chips or M&M® candies are higher in calories knowing they contain sugar and fat and are considered "junk" food. People don't stop and think about the serving size of each food and how they differ.
- Ask students to consider the following:
- How large is the portion of the fruit or vegetable and how small is the portion for the candy or chips?
- What amounts of these items do YOU usually eat?
- Optional discussion point:
- In advance, download the MyPyramid for Kids Poster (www.mypyramid.gov/kids/index.html).
- Using the poster, ask kids in which MyPyramid Group each food is found.
This activity is found on page 44 of the A La Cart, Snack Fun booklet. For more activity ideas like the one above, check out HKC resource materials. See the Online Store for descriptors and to view the Table of Content and booklet sample pages.