Fruit and Veggie Tag

Fruit and Veggie Tag

Equipment Needed:
3 soft objects used for tagging players (ex. small pieces of pool noodles, yarn balls, or rubber rings)
1 set of foam fruits and vegetables (I got mine from S&S Discount)

The first time I taught this game to a first grade class, I was shocked to discover that some students could not recognize some of the basic fruits and vegetables I had in my box.  They also could not classify each item as a fruit or vegetable.  I saw a great opportunity for a learning experience! 

As an introduction to this game, sit down with your group in a big circle, and take one item out at  a time to show them.  Ask them what the name of it is, and if it’s a fruit or a vegetable (ex.  Apple, fruit).  Pass the items around the circle so each person can feel it and look at it. 

Here is your opportunity to talk about how healthy these foods are.  As you take out a new piece from the box, ask the class to raise their hands if they’ve ever eaten it before.  Ask them if they like it, and/or what is their favorite fruit/vegetable.  Remind them they should eat fruits and vegetables every day! 

Explanation of Game:
This is tag with NO SAFE.  Players continue to move throughout the playing area for 2-3 minutes, until teacher gives them a signal to stop. 

To begin the game, select 3 taggers to begin on the end line.  Taggers carry the noodle with them and use it for tagging players.   Players begin in personal space.  Allow each player to choose a fruit or veggie to have.  They must hold  their fruit/veggie in their hands the entire time.

If a player is tagged, they sit down with their legs crossed and wait for another player to help them.  Another player may help a tagged player by trading items with them.   The item that is traded must be different.   For example, if Shana has an apple, Matt may trade his potato with her so that she can stand up and continue playing.  But, a person with an apple may not help Shana.

Notes:
After the first couple rounds, you may change a rule.
Examples: 
Only fruits and trade with other fruits.  
Veggies can only trade with veggies.
No fruits can trade with other fruits.
No veggies can trade with other veggies.