3. Code Breakers.

Have students work in pairs or small groups to learn more about one of the historic examples of their choice. For example, students can look into Morse code, binary code, baseball signals, etc. Provide students with access to the internet or library so they can do their research.

Encourage them to gather information during their research to explain the following:

• What code they researched
• Who invented it and why
• When and how it was used
• An example of how to read/understand the code

Invite students to share summaries of their research on different codes with the rest of the class. They can present what they learned via posters or short written reports with drawings.

4. Challenge.

Now it’s finally time for students to try the challenge! Reveal the code on the board, or distribute copies to everyone in the class. Tell the class to work it out as fast as they can.

5. Solve and Reflect.

The answer is, of course: Wash Your Hands. Have everyone wash their hands after they have solved the code. When all their hands are clean, you can serve a healthy snack (be mindful of any student allergies) or hand out a healthy or nonfood prize as a reward.

Ask the class to discuss why washing hands is so important before meals and snacks.

6. Extend the Lesson.

Have students research other codes to try on each other, or to bring home and try with their families.

7. Home Connection.

Ask students to create a secret healthy habits code with their family and friends. Encourage them to share the codes in the following healthy places:

• On lunch bags
• In a fruit basket
• Under pillows
• Next to toothbrushes