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Explore The Best American History Gifts For Kids And Educators

October 30, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

For the child or adult that loves American history gifts you want to do something a little different, a little extra, a little fun.

You know that I have you covered with different and unique ideas for all ages, time periods, and personalities- from puzzles and games to art.

Of course, before I just hand over my list I have to share some great information with you.

Explore The Best American History Gifts For Kids And Educators

Mind you it is not an extensive list, just a quick overview on each of the defining eras.

Within American History you have many different periods, and your American History buff can fall anywhere within this timeline.

They may be fascinated by all wars, or all presidents, maybe they are fascinated by the documents that shaped America.

AMERICAN HISTORY TIMELINE

Colonial America (1607-1776)

The founding of the first permanent English settlements
The development of colonial society and culture
The American Revolution

Early National Period (1776-1815)

The establishment of the United States government
The War of 1812

Antebellum Period (1815-1861)

The expansion of the United States westward
The development of the plantation economy in the South
The rise of the abolitionist movement

Civil War and Reconstruction (1861-1877)

The American Civil War
The Reconstruction of the South

Gilded Age (1877-1900)

The rise of industrial capitalism
The growth of cities
The Progressive movement

Early 20th Century (1900-1945)

World War I
The Great Depression
World War II

Cold War (1945-1991)

The Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union
The Vietnam War

Modern History(1991-Present)

The end of the Cold War
The rise of globalization
The War on Terror

MORE GIFT GUIDES FOR KIDS AND EDUCATORS

Finally, look at this fun list of American history gifts for all ages.

10 American History Gifts

Explore the best American history gifts for kids and educators.

Photo Credit: www.historyunboxed.com

About History Unboxed

History Unboxed American History Full Curriculum Early Explorers, Jamestown, French Indian War, American Revolution, Westward Expansion, and Lewis and Clark to name a few of the amazing topics covered. You can choose boxes for youth or young adults for older students, and they will explore history through hands-on experiences like rolling beeswax candles,mining for gold, and painting a dipper gourd with everything they need to complete the activities in each box.

American History Jigsaw Puzzles 1000 Pieces

How about an American History Jigsaw Puzzle jam packed with presidents, flags, a map,currency, documents, and landmarks? This is 1000 pieces of fun and can be glued together to hang as an art piece as well.

Funny American History Quote

I can really appreciate a funny American History shirt like “I like my coffee black and my tea in the harbor”, do you know someone who would love this gift?

Histories Settlers of America Board Game - Forge Trails into Rails!

I am a sucker for Catan and was pleased to see a Catan Histories: Settlers of America version.What a great way to reinforce what you have taught about Westward Expansion and the steam powered era.

Miniature Revolutionary War Figurines

For dramatic small world play or dioramas you can't beat Safari Ltd Toobs for usability through the years. You will find miniature figures from the Revolutionary War, Civil War, Powhatan Indians, Jamestown Settlers, the Wild West and iconic landmarks from around the United States.

Guts & Glory: World War II (Guts & Glory, 3)

For the young reader in your life, how bout the Guts & Glory Series? They are a set of 4 books packed with trivia,epic battles, and amazing illustrations. The series includes The American Revolution, Civil War, WWII, (and Vikings) .

Funny History Canvas Tote Bag America History Lover Gifts History

This US History tote bag is a great way to show off your love of American history. I think it would also make an amazing gift for the history co-op teacher.

Huglanket History Gifts

“Don’t Make Me Repeat Myself”- History Blanket- This one just cracks me up and as a lover of history myself I would wrap up in it with a chuckle each time, perfect for a history buff in the family or perhaps a co-op teacher.

This Day in History Boxed Calendar

While it covers more than just American History, there is plenty of that still in the This Day in History 365 Daily Calendar . It is just the type of thing someone who has a passion for the past enjoys and it will keep on giving all year long.

Presidential Mad Libs: World's Greatest Word Game

The best thing a president can be is ADJECTIVE! With 21 “fill-in-the-blank” stories about Washington, Lincoln, and even Trump, Presidential Mad Libs has something for every future politician! Play alone, in a group, or at the Oval Office! Mad Libs are a fun family activity recommended for ages 8 to NUMBER.

How to Make a Winnie the Pooh Craft Using Paper Plates

October 29, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I’m showing you how to make a Winnie The Pooh craft using paper plates.

And if you love children’s books, I have a treat for you.

I have a list of 10 old and ‘new’ classics that should be on your shelves.

Winnie the Pooh is one of those classic children’s books which has stayed popular through generations.

How to Make a Winnie the Pooh Craft Using Paper Plates

According to the definition “A children’s book is considered a classic when it has been around for many decades, has influenced multiple generations of readers, and is still as interesting and exciting to read today as it was when it was written.”

There are so many rich, wonderful books out there that you probably read as a child that you can read with your children.

And I want to share some of my favorite classics as well as a few that I think have become new classics.

In addition to that I pulled together some fantastic crafts to go along with some of the books to extend the learning past the wonderful experience of reading the book.

Engage their imaginations, fine motor skills, and so much more.

CLASSIC CHILDREN’S PICTURE BOOKS

Next, look at some of our favorite picture books.

10 CLASSIC CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOKS TO ADD TO YOUR COLLECTION

Add some of these beautiful classic children’s book to your home library to be loved and read over and over again.

Harold and the Purple Crayon

One evening Harold decides to go for a walk in the moonlight. Armed only with an oversize purple crayon, young Harold draws himself a landscape full of wonder and excitement.

Harold and his trusty crayon travel through woods and across seas and past dragons before returning to bed, safe and sound. Full of funny twists and surprises, this charming story shows just how far your imagination can take you.

The Wonky Donkey

Kids will love this cumulative and hysterical read-aloud!

"I was walking down the road and I saw . . .A donkey,Hee Haw!And he only had three legs!He was a wonky donkey."

Children will be in fits of laughter with this perfect read-aloud tale of an endearing donkey. By the book's final page, readers end up with a spunky, hanky-panky, cranky, stinky, dinky, lanky, honky-tonky, winky wonky donkey!

The Gruffalo

When Mouse takes a stroll through the woods, he meets a fox, an owl, and a snake who all want to eat him! So Mouse invents a gruffalo, a monster with "terrible tusks and terrible claws, terrible teeth, and terrible jaws." But will Mouse's frightful description be enough to scare off his foes? After all, there's no such thing as a gruffalo . . . is there? Sturdy pages and a cozy trim make this rhyming read-aloud perfect for preschoolers. Winner of the prestigious British Smarties Prize.

Make Way for Ducklings 75th Anniversary Edition

Seventy-five years ago, a family of ducks waddled off the page and into the hearts of readers everywhere. The brilliantly illustrated tale of mallards on the move received the Caldecott Medal for the most distinguished picture book of the year, and has been a favorite of generations of readers.

Where the Wild Things Are

This iconic story has inspired a movie, an opera, and the imagination of generations. When Max dresses in his wolf suit and causes havoc in the house, his mother sends him to bed. From there, Max sets sail to an island inhabited by the Wild Things, who name him king and share a wild rumpus with him. But then from far away across the world, Max smells good things to eat...

The Day the Crayons Quit

Poor Duncan just wants to color. But when he opens his box of crayons, he finds only letters, all saying the same thing: His crayons have had enough! They quit! Blue crayon needs a break from coloring all those bodies of water. Black crayon wants to be used for more than just outlining. And Orange and Yellow are no longer speaking—each believes he is the true color of the sun. What can Duncan possibly do to appease all of the crayons and get them back to doing what they do best?

Dragons Love Tacos

Dragons love tacos. They love chicken tacos, beef tacos, great big tacos, and teeny tiny tacos. So if you want to lure a bunch of dragons to your party, you should definitely serve tacos. Buckets and buckets of tacos. Unfortunately, where there are tacos, there is also salsa. And if a dragon accidentally eats spicy salsa . . . oh, boy. You're in red-hot trouble.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

Alexander could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. He went to sleep with gum in his mouth and woke up with gum in his hair. When he got out of bed, he tripped over his skateboard and by mistake dropped his sweater in the sink while the water was running. He could tell it was going to be a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

A Color of His Own

Elephants are gray. Pigs are pink. Only the chameleon has no color of his own. He is purple like the heather, yellow like a lemon, even black and orange striped like a tiger! Then one day a chameleon has an idea to remain one color forever by staying on the greenest leaf he can find. But in the autumn, the leaf changes from green to yellow to red . . . and so does the chameleon. When another chameleon suggests they travel together, he learns that companionship is more important than
having a color of his own. No matter where he goes with his new friend, they will always be alike.

Corduroy

Don Freeman's classic character, Corduroy, is even more popular
today then he was when he first came on the scene in 1968. This story of
a small teddy bear waiting on a department store shelf for a child’s
friendship has appealed to young readers generation after generation.

Also, look at some fun facts about Winnie The Pooh.

4 WONDERFUL WINNIE THE POOH FACTS

Pooh was based on a real bear, a black bear named Winnie who lived at London Zoo from 1915 until her death in 1934. Milne gave his son a stuffed bear. It was first called Edward and then changed to Winnie the Pooh which was inspired by a swan he met.
The original Winnie the Pooh stories were written by A.A Milne. It was illustrated by E.H. Shepard. Milne was a British author and playwright, and Shepard was a British illustrator. The first Winnie the Pooh story was published in 1926, and the stories were later collected into two books: Winnie-the-Pooh (1926) and The House at Pooh Corner (1928).
The story of Winnie the Pooh has been translated into over 50 languages. Too, it has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and other media.
Before writing the classic beloved Winnie-the-Pooh, A.A. Milne was already a moderately successful humorist, playwright and mystery author.

Also, look at my post 10 Creative Mason Jar Crafts | How to Make a Winnie the Pooh Craft.

HOW TO MAKE A WINNIE THE POOH CRAFT USING PAPER PLATES

You will need:

Two paper plates
One black pom-pom
Two large yellow pom-poms
One black pipe cleaner
Red craft paint
Yellow craft paint
Blue craft paint
Scissors
Paint brushes
Craft glue

First, cut one plate in half to make the upper part of his body and as you can see in my picture here on the other half cut the center out into the rough shape of a honeypot.

Cut out little bear hands like these far enough inward that they reach the honeypot on either side so that they can hold it.

Flip your plates so that the bowl is facing downward and paint the uncut plate yellow all over. Also paint the little bear hands you cut out yellow as well.

Paint the rest of the plate red all over, except where you painted the yellow paws (to keep them from getting painted you can fold them upward or inward).

Set aside to dry.

Paint the honey pot light blue and then set it aside to dry as well.

Cut 1/3 of your pipe cleaner off and fashion a slight curved grin with a little bend on to get Winnie the Pooh’s classic smile.

Then cut 1 inch pieces and arch them slightly for eyebrows.

Once the honeypot has dried, write ‘hunny’ using a black marker, make it with a backwards N, if you like, just like in the storybook using a permanent marker.

Now it’s time to assemble your creation.

Use a black marker to first color in little oval eyes.

Glue the pipe cleaner eyebrows down and Pooh’s grin.

Glue the black pom-pom to the center of the plate for his nose and the two yellow pom-poms on either side of the top of the head for ears.

Attach the red half plate to the back of his head and slip the honeypot between his hands and glue that into place.

French And Indian War Activity: How To Make An Iroquois Longhouse

October 28, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re making a fun French and Indian War activity Iroquois Longhouse. Also, look at my posts French and Indian War 1754 -1763 free unit study and lapbook and Native American Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning for more fun ideas.

This highlights the home style of the Iroquois tribes who sided with the British.

We’re using an empty oatmeal container as a simple base for the traditional longhouse as we talk about the who, where, why, and when of the French and Indian War.

French And Indian War Activity: How To Make An Iroquois Longhouse

The French and Indian War was a major conflict between the British and French empires in North America from 1754 to 1763.

The war was fought over control of the Ohio River Valley, a region that both empires claimed.

Who fought in the war?

The war was fought between the British and French empires, along with their Native American allies.

The British and French both wanted to control the Ohio River Valley, the British built forts in the Ohio River Valley, which angered the French.

In addition to the French and British fighting various tribes sided with each side and joined in as well.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR

First, look at some of these books to help bring this period in history life.

We try to read living books when we can find them then add reference books.

7 Books and Resources about the French and Indian War

Grab some of these books and resources to bring to life the years during the French and Indian War.

The Matchlock Gun

The book is set in the year 1756 during the French and Indian War in Guilderland, New York.

The Last of the Mohicans

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper is a timeless classic adventure novel. Set to a backdrop of the French and Indian War of 1757, this renowned novel follows the journey of Natty Bumpo, his two Mohican friends, Chingachgook and Uncas, and the daughters of British Lt. Col. Munro from Fort Edward to Fort William Henry. Widely hailed as Cooper's masterpiece, The Last of the Mohicans is an influential work of literature and an early contender for the title of the "Great American Novel."

River of the Wolves

During the French and Indian Wars, Dave Foster was taken captive in Maine by a Canadian war party. The story of the long, dangerous trek back to Canada, of a winter of enforced idleness in the Indian village during which Dave became a skilled hunter and trapper, and of his eventual escape, all make an historical story.

Courage to command,: A story of the capture of Louisbourg; (Winston adventure books)

"In March of 1745, a fleet of ninety ships set sail from Boston under a cloud-ridden sky, with a stormy sea threatening outside the harbor. They were heading for the jagged coast of Cape Breton Island to stage a surprise assault on the 'impregnable' Fortress of Louisburg. This is the story of that incredible attack, and of Caleb Hatch, a young Boston lad chosen to record the events."

WITH WOLFE IN CANADA A TALE OF THE FRENCH & INDIAN WAR

The struggle between Britain and France for supremacy in the North American continent.

The Seven Years' War (Essential Histories)

The closest thing to total war before World War One, the Seven Years' War was fought in North America, Europe, the Caribbean and India with major consequences for all parties involved. This fascinating book is the first to truly review the grand strategies of the combatants and examine the differing styles of warfare used in the many campaigns. These ranged from the large-scale battles and sieges of the European front to the ambush and skirmish tactics used in the forests of North America. Daniel Marston's engaging narrative is supported by official war papers, personal diaries and memoirs, and official reports.

Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison

When twelve-year-old Mary Jemison and her family are captured by Shawnee raiders, she’s sure they’ll all be killed. Instead, Mary is separated from her siblings and traded to two Seneca sisters, who adopt her and make her one of their own. Mary misses her home, but the tribe is kind to her. She learns to plant crops, make clay pots, and sew moccasins, just as the other members do. Slowly, Mary realizes that the Indians are not the monsters she believed them to be. When Mary is given the chance to return to her world, will she want to leave the tribe that has become her family? This Newbery Honor book is based on the true story of Mary Jemison, the pioneer known as the “White Woman of the Genesee.” This ebook features an illustrated biography of Lois Lenski including rare images and never-before-seen documents from the author’s estate.

Here is a quick breakdown of which tribes aligned with each side during the long war to protect their land and maintain control over their territories.

They chose their sides primarily based on who they thought would allow them to maintain their way of life and allow them to access things like hunting and fur trade routes.

TRIBES THAT SIDED WITH THE FRENCH IN THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR

Abenaki
Algonquin
Delaware
Huron
Illinois
Miami
Odawa
Ottawa
Potawatomi
Shawnee
Wyandot

TRIBES THAT SIDED WITH THE BRITISH IN THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR

Cherokee
Chickasaw
Choctaw
Creek
Iroquois
Mohawk
Oneida
Onondaga
Seneca
Tuscarora

The war was fought in North America, primarily in the Ohio River Valley. The war lasted for nine years, from 1754 to 1763.

After a long 9 years the British ultimately won the war, and gained control of the Ohio River Valley.

WHAT WERE THE AFTEREFFECTS OF THE WAR?

The British gained control of the Ohio River Valley, which gave them a major advantage in the future.
The war strained the relationship between the British and the Native Americans.
The war helped to lead to the American Revolution.
The French and Indian War was a major event in shaping the future of North America.

Next, look at more French And Indian War Activities for kids who love history.

MORE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR ACTIVITIES

10 Easy Resources About The French And Indian War For Kids
Free Homeschool History Cards – French and Indian War
Sometimes you just have to grab kids with a hook and this hilarious French and Indian War parody is a fun way to instill some facts into their brain.
Here is a quick and easy Iroquois craft for you kids to put together as they learn more about the tribe-National Native American Heritage Day Make a Fun Kids Iroquois Bracelet.
The French and Indian War Unboxed is a great way to get everything you need to complete 3 time period themed crafts and activities with loads of cool info on the subject.
15 Hands-on History Ideas for Kids Studying the French and Indian War
If gameschooling is something you enjoy you can add a game like Bayonets & Tomahawks: The French and Indian War for a strategy challenge that gives older kids a different look at the war.

Finally, look at how to make a Iroquois longhouse.

HOW TO MAKE AN IROQUOIS LONGHOUSE

You will need:

Empty oatmeal container
Brown paper bags
Hot glue gun/sticks
Brown paint
Paintbrush
scissors

First, cut your oatmeal container roughly in half, lengthwise, including the plastic lid to create a solid wall on both ends.

Paint the outside of the container brown so that the printing does not show through the covering, paint over the lid as well.

You may need 2 coats. Allow it to dry completely.

Cut off the bottom folded over portion of several paper bags and cut the rest into strips.

Make cuts all the way across each strip about ½” to 1” apart but do not cut all the way across, you want to create a ‘fringe’.

Begin hot gluing the strips on the top and continue gluing one after another just under the edge of the last piece until they reach the bottom.

Trim the excess off all the way around to neaten it up a bit and make it fit the structure better.

Use brown paint to brush over the paper strips to give the paper a more rustic look so it looks more like thin sheets of bark. Add as much or as little paint as you like.

Don’t forget to leave a doorway open on the front of your longhouse by using smaller strips to cover one end.

Add some plastic native American figures and enjoy your creation as is or use it as part of a bigger diorama as you dive more into this period.

6 Ancient Israel Fun Activities Middle School: How To Make A Topography Map

October 27, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a few Ancient Israel fun activities middle school if you’re learning about Ancient Civilizations. For more ideas look on my page Ancient Civilizations. Also, look at my page Hands-On Simple And Best Homeschool Geography Ideas & Tips for more fun hands-on geography.

And I created one and then rounded up whatever else I could locate to create a fun unit.

There is just nothing like a hands-on project to help your child dig deeper and understand better whatever topic they’re learning about.

6 Ancient Israel Fun Activities Middle School: How To Make A Topography Map

Today we are going to make a topographic relief map of Israel, using a somewhat unusual art medium, beans.

Using different colors and shapes and sizes of beans helps differentiate the different areas of this Middle Eastern land.

From the Mediterranean sea to the mountains in the coast of Blaine, we are outlining the major topographical differences of Israel.

Ancient Israel was a small country in the Middle East that existed from about 1200 BC to 586 BC.

It was home to the Israelites, a people who believed in one God.

The Israelites were originally nomads, but they eventually settled down in the land of Canaan.

They built a kingdom with Jerusalem as its capital.

The Israelites had many kings, including King David and King Solomon.

David was a great warrior who defeated the Philistines, a powerful enemy.

Solomon was a wise king who built the first temple in Jerusalem.

The Israelites were conquered by the Babylonians in 586 BC.

The Temple was destroyed, and many of the Israelites were taken into exile.

After 70 years, the Israelites were allowed to return to their homeland. They rebuilt the Temple and re-established their kingdom.

The Israelites were later conquered by the Romans in 70 AD. The Temple was destroyed again, and many Israelites were killed.

Despite these setbacks, the Israelites have survived as a people.

BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL FOR KIDS

Next, look at some of these books to add to your unit study.

Books About Israel for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Grab some of these fun books for your home library or to add to your learning day.

The Bronze Bow: A Newbery Award Winner

After Daniel bar Jamin's father is crucified by the Roman Empire, Daniel wants nothing more than to rid his land of Israel of Roman control once and for all. Yet when David meets Jesus of Nazareth, a traveling carpenter with a gentle message of love and forgiveness, David starts to realize that the hate festering in his heart might be his true enemy after all.

The Birth of Israel, 1945-1949: Ben-Gurion and His Critics

oseph Heller tells the story of the complex and often conflicting political calculations that led directly to the founding of the independent Jewish state of Israel in the aftermath of World War II and the Holocaust. Examining the positions of many competing parties, he explains how and why the charismatic David Ben-Gurion prevailed: by shrewdly maneuvering between radical extremes on the left and on the right, Ben-Gurion managed to steer a successful middle-of-the-road policy in favor of partition.

Israel: The Founding of a Modern Nation

Tells the story of how the nation of Israel was founded, as well as the stories of its heroes, villains, battles, and miracles, with clear, accessible text that traces its history from biblical times to the nation's birth in 1948.

This is Israel: A Children's Classic

Like the other Sasek classics, these are facsimile editions of his original books. The vibrant illustrations have been preserved, remaining true to his vision, and where applicable facts have been updated, appearing on a "This is...Today" page at the back of each book. The charming illustrations, coupled with Sasek’s witty, playful narrative, make for perfect souvenirs that will delight both children and their parents, many of whom will remember them from their own childhood. This is Britain, first published in 1974, encompasses the nation’s many facets, from the mystery of Stonehenge to the monuments of the British Isles. Among his stops are the White Cliffs of Dover; Brighton’s Prince Regent’s Royal Pavilion; the castles and Tintern Abbey in Wales; and Scotland’s four Royal Palaces and long lochs. This is Israel, first published in 1962, visits the Promised Land, a sun-drenched panorama of many hues and many traditions. From the Sea of Galilee to the Red Sea (it’s really blue); from modern Tel Aviv to Jerusalem new and old; from Mt. Zion to King Solomon’s mines; Sasek presents the biblical glory of its past and the golden hope of its future.

They continue to practice their religion and celebrate their culture.

Jump into learning more about the ancient and modern-day people of Israel with these activities including our topography map tutorial.

6 ANCIENT ISRAEL FUN ACTIVITIES MIDDLE SCHOOL

Encourage your middle school kids to engineer a model of Masada with this STEM Challenge while Studying Ancient Israel.
History of Ancient Israel and Judah explained in 5 minutes
History Unboxed offers a subscription box but you can also purchase individual boxes like this one for Ancient Israelites Unboxed. It can be specified for youth or young adult and includes everything you need to make a rams horn trumpet, try an ancient treat of real honeycomb, and what you need to make and use your own oil lamp.
I originally did this with younger kids but I think it has great benefits for middle school too- Hands-on Ancient Egypt: Israelite Mud Bricks for Kids.
Try a dish that the ancient Israelites would have enjoyed like this Jacob’s Lentil Stew, by this time you know how wonderful cooking is as part of the learning experience.
Learn to read Hebrew in just 6 weeks with illustrations, memory tricks, and 12 lessons to have you on the road to learning this ancient language.

Finally, look at how to make this topography map of Israel.

HOW TO MAKE A TOPOGRAPHY MAP OF ISRAEL

You will need:

Heavyweight cardboard/cardstock.
Tacky glue
An assortment of dried beans
Sharpened pencils

The first thing we’re going to do is print off a simple topographical map of Israel, like the one I found here at Geography Realm Map of Israel.

We printed a simple map outline and then referenced topographic maps to fill in each section.

Next, you are going to flip over your printed map and lay your pencils sideways, almost flat and rubbing lead by scribbling all over.

You want a good thick coat that covers all the map parts you want to trace.

Now you’re going to take a piece of cardboard or cardstock and slip it behind your map print out.

Take a pencil and trace the outline of your map of Israel onto the blank piece of paper.

This will transfer the lead that you scribbled on the back to the new page.

Lift slightly and be sure that it has been traced everywhere before you completely move it.

This will give you your basic outline.

First decide which beans will represent which topographical feature and create a little key in the bottom corner by gluing the bean and writing what it represents.

You can also use one type to mark the capital.

To create the blue for water you can toss white navy beans into a ziploc bag with food coloring or liquid watercolor and then allow to dry.

Now take your school or tacky glue, and “paint” the section that you want to start with. You have a little bit of working time but I do not recommend painting the entire map yet.

Press the correct beans into the thick glue until you have covered the entire area you need to then move onto the next section.

Repeat until the map is fully covered; to seal the map you can brush a layer of glue over the top of the beans if you like.

Why Evergreen Trees Are the Ultimate Winter Wonder & Tree Craft

October 26, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We are digging into the pantry and creating a unique tree craft highlighting the winter wonder, evergreen trees using dyed pasta. Also, look at my pages Winter Season Unit Study Free Lapbook & Hands-On Ideas and Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study for more ideas.

Evergreen trees are a fascinating and beautiful part of nature.

They stand tall and proud, even in the coldest and snowiest months.

Their vibrant green needles provide a welcome contrast to the white landscape.

Why Evergreen Trees Are the Ultimate Winter Wonder & Tree Craft

These trees have adapted to survive in harsh winter conditions, and they offer many benefits to both humans and animals from food to wood products.

Included in the evergreen family are cypress, blue spruce, pine, and juniper.

And you may be surprised but the Live Oak, Holly, Laurel, and cypress are also considered to be an evergreen.

As a matter of fact, there are over 1,000 species of evergreen and conifers make up over 600 of those.

When you think of evergreen trees you likely think of ‘conifers’.

Conifers are a group of trees and shrubs like pine trees and fir trees which grow in cooler areas.

The fruit they produce is cones and have very thin leaves which are actually called needles, and they don’t normally lose them in winter.

There is a wide variety of evergreens in different shapes and sizes, from the towering redwoods of California to the small junipers in alpine regions.

Some have needles, others have thick leathery leaves, and some like the Italian Cypress have scaly leaves.

BOOKS ABOUT TREES FOR KIDS

To make learning about trees even more fun there is a wealth of facts, activities, and crafts for you to create a wonderful unit study on trees.

9 Tree Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

You'll love using one of these books as a science reference or to use for art to inspire life science lessons.

Celebritrees: Historic & Famous Trees of the World

Some trees have lived many lifetimes, standing as silent witnesses to history. Some are remarkable for their age and stature; others for their usefulness. A bristlecone pine tree in California has outlived man by almost 4,000 years; a baobab tree in Australia served as a prison for Aboriginal prisoners at the turn of the twentieth century; and a major oak in England was used as a hiding place for Robin Hood and his men (or so the story goes…).

The fourteen trees in this book have earned the title "Celebritrees" for their global fame and significance. Both in fact and in legend, these fascinating trees remind us not only how much pleasure trees bring, but what they can tell us about history.

The Busy Tree

Spectacular illustrations rendered in oil paint, and a rhyming text that describes a tree’s activities from its roots to its branches, introduce young readers to the amazing activities that go on in a tree. Acorns nibbled by chipmunks, ants scurrying across a trunk, a spider spinning a web, leaves “breathing out air for all to breathe in”—everything adds up to a “busy tree” for all to “come and see.”

The Tree Book for Kids and Their Grown-Ups

This is a fantastic reference book to have on hand for tree studies.

It has great illustrations and covers everything from how a tree “eats and drinks” to types of trees, seeds, how they change in the seasons, why we need them and more

Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world.

Trees, Leaves & Bark (Take Along Guides)

An introduction to the world of insects, caterpillars, and butterflies including identification information, educational activities, and fun facts.Invites young naturalists to spot wildlife.

Tree Full of Wonder: An educational, rhyming book about magic of trees for children

Tree Full of Wonder is a vibrant, rhyming, educational and unique picture book showing the unbreakable bond between people and trees. For children ages 3-8. Kids will fall in love with nature and will become Protectors of the Trees.

The Magic and Mystery of Trees (The Magic and Mystery of Nature)

From the highest branch and leaf down to the complex “wood wide web” of roots, it’s no wonder every part of a tree plays an important role in its own growth and the habitat of the whole forest or woodland. The Magic & Mystery of Trees is a nature book that takes children on a fascinating journey of exploration, showing them just how special these mighty organisms are.

Figurines of Pine, Elm, Juniper, Monkey Puzzle, Topiary, Petticoat, Aspen, Two Maples

Learn and Play: These figurines provide a fun and educational way to learn about different tree species, promoting environmental awareness and appreciation.

Fandex Family Field Guides: Trees

Bringing the world of TREES to your fingertips, FANDEX presents a foolproof field guide. Four visual keys--die-cut leaf, bark pattern, flower, nut or seed, and photo of the full tree--plus descriptions of habitat and more combine to give a complete picture of North America's forest and backyard trees.

In addition, TREES is a cultural history--of the mighty White Oak, California Redwood, Aillanthus, the tree that grows in Brooklyn, and the stately White Ash, as important for the bows of early Native Americans as for the baseball bats of today.

Next, look at some fun facts about evergreen trees.

FUN FACTS ABOUT EVERGREEN TREES

The needles are covered in a waxy coating that helps them retain moisture and prevent water loss during the winter months.
Winter evergreen trees have deep roots that anchor them firmly in the ground, enabling them to withstand strong winds and heavy snowfalls.
They provide vital food and shelter for many animals, including birds, squirrels, deer, and insects.
Winter evergreen trees are an important source of lumber, paper, and other wood products.
Many winter evergreen trees also produce edible seeds and berries, which can be enjoyed by both humans and animals.
Evergreen trees have cultural and spiritual significance in many cultures and can symbolize resilience, longevity, hope, protection, peace, rebirth and renewal, eternal life, and the coming of spring.

When in the woods or a park and identify different types of winter evergreen trees, you can use a field guide or reference book like the one in my photos, The Tree Book For Kids And Their Grown Ups.

Additionally, look at more hands-on activities for kids about trees.

HANDS-ON TREE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Too, look at more hands-on evergreen trees activities.

EVERGREEN TREE CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES

As always Nature Anatomy is a favorite resource as well including graphics and small tidbits on bark, tree rings, pinecones, and more.
Collect some evergreen needles and examine them under a microscope to see their unique structure.
Read a book about winter evergreen trees to your kids and discuss their importance in the ecosystem.
Watch a documentary or video about winter evergreen trees online like this one Evergreen Trees on YouTube to learn more about their biology and ecological significance.
With my Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science – Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study you can explore trees deeper and learn more with fun activities and book recommendations.
Younger kids will really enjoy the simple Fork Painted Tree Craft Idea For Kids.
This Nature Study: Tree Trunk Slices is an amazingly creative look at tree rings with an artful twist while you learn what those rings mean.
Create the art style of Emily Carr, writer, and artist who loves to recreate the western coast of British Columbia with this Artist study including 3 options.

Finally, look at how to make an evergreen tree craft.

EVERGREEN TREE CRAFT

You will need:

Green liquid watercolor
Dried pasta
sticks/twigs
Plastic gallon zip bag
Cardstock
Glue-optional

First, gather up pasta. Include several different shapes, the more you use the better variety of creations you can make.

Spaghetti noodles are great for pine trees!

Place pasta in a ziploc bag.

You can use liquid watercolor to dye your pasta.

Or add liquid food coloring and a generous squirt of hand sanitizer to dry pasta in the bag.

Massage the bag gently to distribute the color over all the pasta, add more color if needed.

Place parchment paper on a baking sheet and spread the pasta across it to allow it to dry.

Once dry it is ready to use.

You can offer it with glue to make a permanent tree art piece or it can just be laid out to create evergreen trees, gathered up, and then reused over and over.

Lay out small sticks and twigs for the trunk of the tree.

Then use the various dyed pasta shapes to create different sizes and shapes of trees.

Encourage your child to be creative with their dyed pasta shapes and make as many evergreen trees as they can.

Welcome

AMERICAN HISTORY TIMELINE

MORE GIFT GUIDES FOR KIDS AND EDUCATORS

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4 WONDERFUL WINNIE THE POOH FACTS

HOW TO MAKE A WINNIE THE POOH CRAFT USING PAPER PLATES

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR

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WHAT WERE THE AFTEREFFECTS OF THE WAR?

MORE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR ACTIVITIES

HOW TO MAKE AN IROQUOIS LONGHOUSE

BOOKS ABOUT ISRAEL FOR KIDS

6 ANCIENT ISRAEL FUN ACTIVITIES MIDDLE SCHOOL

HOW TO MAKE A TOPOGRAPHY MAP OF ISRAEL

BOOKS ABOUT TREES FOR KIDS

FUN FACTS ABOUT EVERGREEN TREES

HANDS-ON TREE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

EVERGREEN TREE CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES

EVERGREEN TREE CRAFT

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