Materials
Peanuts in shells
Sand in a sandbox
Shovels
Bowls
Measuring cups
Blender
Oil
Salt
Blunt knife
Crackers
Construction paper
Markers
Instructions
1. Before the children arrive, bury peanuts in the sandbox.2. Explain to the children that peanuts grow underneath the ground and that farmers must dig up the roots to get the peanuts out.3. Give the children shovels and encourage them to dig up the peanuts in the sandbox. Ask them to count how many peanuts they dug up.4. Ask the children to crack the peanuts and separate the peanut from the shells into two different bowls. (Save the shells for a future art project.)5. After the children have shelled all the peanuts, measure how many cups of peanuts there are.6. Make peanut butter. Put peanuts into a blender, add a little oil and salt. Turn on the blender and grind the peanuts (adult only). Grind the peanuts until they are the desired texture crunchy or smooth.7. Measure the peanut butter and compare it to the peanut measurements. Is there more peanut butter than peanuts or less?8. Spread the peanut butter on crackers and encourage the children to taste it. Remember to check for any food allergies.9. Encourage the children to write or dictate a story about how to make peanut butter.10. Use the peanut shells for an art project, if desired.More to do:More Science: Talk about other foods that are grown underground, such as potatoes, carrots, and so on.Music: Sing the "Peanut Butter and Jelly" song while you are making the peanut butter.
