Can you play with fruits and vegetables?

Absolutely!

For this year’s National Science Week, we are bringing back Foodie Fun Play! where we make food fun with balloons, stories and science.

Foodie Fun Play! is a hands-on science adventure designed to help young children explore fruits and vegetables through fun, creative play. Perfect for curious little eaters aged 3 to 8, this unique event blends storytelling, science, and sensory experiences to make healthy foods exciting.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Science Storytelling Show (30 minutes)
The fun begins with a lively 30-minute science storytelling show where kids learn about different fruits and veggies, what makes them good for our bodies, and why eating the rainbow helps us feel strong, fast, and full of energy.

Balloon Fruit & Veggie Station
Meet silly balloon sculptures of fruits and vegetables, and create your own “veggie friends” with goofy eyes and cheeky smiles to take home and play!

Tasting Table
Explore fresh produce through smell, touch, and taste in a relaxed, no-pressure space, prepared by Accredited Practising Dietitians from Nutrition Australia ACT.

Co-designed with a University of Canberra nutrition academic and informed by fussy eating research, Foodie Fun Play! is the first of its kind to bring nutrition science together with the joy of balloon art.

Hosted by Dr Chloe Lim – a life scientist, Canberra’s best balloon artist from Giggly Wiggly Balloons, and top 5 finalist on Channel 7’s Blow Up – this event is as educational as it is entertaining.

Parents are invited to complete a short survey to help us understand how play encourages trying new foods. Come join us for a deliciously fun journey where science meets vegetables to become your child’s new best friends!

This event is recommended for preschoolers, primary school children, and their parents/carers. Younger children are welcome. Adult supervision is required at all times.

EVENT DETAILS

Denman Village Community Centre
Thursday, 20 Aug 2026
• Session 1: 11 AM
• Session 2: 2 PM
• Session 3: 4 PM (Auslan interpreted)

Limited spots available. Reserve your spot now!
https://twistyfic.eventbrite.com

Reminder: Adult supervision is required at all times. To give everyone a fair go, please book only one session per family. Kindly arrive 15 minutes before to register and find seating. We look forward to seeing you there!

This Inspiring Australia initiative is supported by the Australian Government as part of National Science Week.