In Health Class yesterday, our students took on a delicious challenge—sneaking kale into a piña colada smoothie. We called this our “Greeña Colada,” a creative blend of dates, coconut, pineapple, kale, and bananas proved that healthy eating can be both fun and flavorful.
Smoothie making is more than just a tasty activity; it teaches valuable life skills, from measuring ingredients to making nutritious choices. Our students eagerly took turns adding ingredients, blending them together, and sampling their vibrant green creation. The natural sweetness of dates and pineapple helped balance the flavor, making the kale nearly undetectable—a great trick for incorporating more greens into a diet.
Beyond the flavors, this lesson reinforced the importance of mindful eating. At Shrub Oak, we encourage our students to recognize how different foods fuel their bodies and to explore new ingredients with an open mind. Some students were excited to jump right in, while others hesitated, but in the end, everyone took a sip. Learning about where food comes from also played a role in the lesson, sparking curiosity about ingredients like dates, which only grow in hot climates.
Each ingredient in the Greeña Colada was chosen for its nutritional benefits. Kale is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune health and strong bones. Bananas provide potassium, which helps maintain heart function and energy levels. Pineapple is rich in antioxidants and aids digestion, while coconut adds healthy fats that promote brain function. Dates offer natural sweetness without added sugar, supplying fiber and essential minerals. By combining these powerhouse ingredients, our students created a smoothie that was not only delicious but also nourishing.
Our students put in hard work, demonstrating patience, teamwork, and a willingness to try new things. Whether they were confidently announcing tasks, assisting with preparation, or pushing past food hesitations, each student played an important role in making the lesson a success. Their enthusiasm and dedication in the kitchen continue to impress us, and we look forward to blending up more healthy creations in the future.
