• Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Activity, Change, Progress

  • HOME
  • How to
    • Preschool
    • Kindergarten
    • Middle School
    • High School
  • Planner
  • Lapbooks
    • Trioramas
    • History Games
  • Shop
  • GET STARTED NOW!
    • Learning Styles
  • 7 Step Planner
    • DIY Best Student Planner
    • Free & Easy DIY Home Management Binder
  • Unit Studies
    • Creation to Ancients
    • Middle Ages to Reform
    • Exploring to Revolution
    • World Wars to Today
    • Science
    • Free Art Curriculum Grades 1 – 8
  • Curriculum
    • More Unit Studies
    • Geography
    • Writing PreK to 12th
    • Geronimo Stilton
  • BootCamp
    • Resources
      • Dynamic Subscriber Freebies
      • Exclusive Subscribers Library
      • Ultimate Unit Study Planner

Welcome

Beautiful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Fun Unit Study

December 8, 2023 | 6 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free Northern Cardinal lapbook today. The cardinal is a fun colorful winter bird easy to study. Also, look for more lapbooks on my page Homeschool Lapbooks – Powerful Tools For Mastery Learning.

It’s easy to see why young and old fall in love with studying the Cardinal for nature.

Beautiful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Fun Unit Study

It’s such a beautiful and bright bird during winter and because it doesn’t migrate, it’s a great bird to study really at anytime.

Colorful Winter Bird Northern Cardinal

Here are some things you’ll love to enhance your unit study.

  • Grab this one page pdf with helpful information to study about the cardinal.
  • Grab this four page pdf with facts and information.
  • Northern Cardinal coloring page.
  • Upcycled Hanging Bird Feeder.
  • Life in a Nest.
  • Free printable cardinal craft.
  • Yarn wrapped cardinal.
  • Cardinal in the winter hand art.
  • Free bird nature study printables.
  • Step by step easy tutorial to draw a cardinal.
The Northern Cardinal bird is such a beautiful and bright bird during winter and because it doesn't migrate, it's a great bird to study really anytime. Click here to grab this free Northern Cardinal Bird Lapbook and Unit Study!

Free coloring page of a Northern Cardinal that would make a great cover for your lapbook or just for fun.

Northern Cardinal Lapbook

  • Black and white clip art to add to the outside flaps of your lapbook or to add to your notebooking page.
  • Craft – make a cardinal in a pine shadow box.
  • Northern Cardinal Field Guide.
  • Toilet Paper Roll Bird Feeder Craft.
  • Birds Printables. Bird communication 22 page pdf download.
Beautiful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Fun Unit Study
Beautiful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Fun Unit Study

Also, we have been using this Beautiful Birds Unit Study. I know you’ll love it.

More Northern Cardinal Hands-on Learning Activities

  • Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity
  • How to Make a Chalk Pastel Bird Nest Easy Drawing
  • Free Bird Journal – Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)
  • Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests
  • How to Paint a Cardinal Bird With Kids
Beautiful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Fun Unit Study

Finally, add some of these books to your reading list.

Books for Kids About Northern Cardinals

I lean toward living books first, then add in reference type books when assisting my kids to learn.

12 Northern Cardinal Bird Books and Resources For Children

Add a book or two to your unit study or to your learning day. Cardinals are fun to study anytime of the year.

Wild Bird Guide: Northern Cardinal

Packed with information, the writing is clear and direct and accessible to bird watchers at every level.

Backyard Birding for Kids

With bird facts, an identification guide, and how-to instructions, this is a perfect children’s introduction to bird-watching.

Albert

The morning begins like any other. Albert reaches out the window to check the weather. But from the moment a twig lands in the palm of his hand, life is never the same

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

One of my go tos for nature study.

Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more.

Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the

Toy Bird Figures Kids

Because children's thinking is more visualized, the intuitive demonstration of the model can better help children construct in the brain. This birds playset can help children get a more direct understanding of real birds world and stimulate their interest in exploring nature.

Why Evergreens Keep Their Leaves

One autumn evening, Little Redbird settled down for one last sleep before flying south for winter. As he slept, a strong gust of wind shook him from his cozy nest . . .

. . . Little Redbird hurts his wing and misses his chance to fly south for the winter. As he searches for a new home amongst the trees, he begins to realize that not all trees are fit for the winter cold. As more and more trees refuse him shelter, too preoccupied with their preparations for the frost, Little Redbird fears the worst. That is, until he comes across a friendly bunch of evergreens.

In the spirit of Oscar Wilde's The Happy Prince, Why Evergreens Keep Their Leaves is a timeless story of kindness and why the fir, spruce, and juniper trees are evergreen all winter long. 

Backyard Birding Flashcards: 100 Common Birds

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds is now transformed into 100 easy-to-reference cards housed in one handsome pull-drawer gift box. Divided into one stack of 50 common Western and Eastern North American birds, and one stack of 50 common birds found across North America, each card features precise illustrations and text concerning habitat, behavior, and voice description necessary for easy identification.

Attracting & Feeding Cardinals

The vibrant red of the male Northern Cardinal is stunning any time of year—and nothing is more beautiful than the early spring duets of cardinals singing their hearts out. You love these beloved birds, and you want to see them visiting your backyard or garden. Professional naturalist and award-winning author Stan Tekiela teaches you all that you need to know about cardinals.

Cardinals (Backyard Bird Feeding Guides)

The vibrant red of the male Northern Cardinal is stunning any time of year. And nothing is more beautiful than the early spring duets of cardinals singing their hearts out.

Authentic Bird Sounds, Northern Cardinal, American Goldfinch, Chickadee

Kids and adults of all ages love these birds, and are captivated by their sounds. They also make great baby toys, and sensory toys for kids any age.

Includes 3 Realistically designed bird toys that produce authentic bird calls from the Cornell lab of ornithology archives of bird recordings.

The Burgess Bird Book for Children

The Burgess Bird Book for Children (1919) is a classic nature book by Thornton Burgess, who introduces young listeners to the subject of bird life by means of a series of interviews within a story. Peter Rabbit and Jenny Wren interview Slaty the Junco, Redwing the Blackbird, Melody the Wood Thrush, Spooky the Screech Owl, and many other common birds to learn about their appearance, their eating, mating and nesting habits, and their songs and calls. The text remains popular as an exceptional combination of information and entertainment.

Cardinals (Backyard Birds)

Whos that singing in the backyard? Its a cardinal! Find out where cardinals live, what they eat, and how to identify the birds and their eggs.

Minibooks Included in the Free Cardinal Lapbook

  • Pieces to glue on the front outside cover
  • Do Northern Cardinals Migrate in the Winter
  • Cardinal Facts
  • Seeds, Grains, and Legumes
  • What is the difference between Song and a Call?
  • Eggs
  • Chicks
  • Juveniles
  • Range and Habitat
  • Did You Know
  • About nest building
  • John James Audubon quote

How to Download the Lapbook

This is how you get access to this form quickly.
1) Sign up on my list.
2) Grab the freebie now.
3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

The Nature Book Club is brought to you by these nature loving bloggers which are your co-hosts! Are you following them? If you don’t want to miss anything, be sure to follow each one.

The Northern Cardinal bird is such a beautiful and bright bird during winter and because it doesn't migrate, it's a great bird to study really anytime. Click here to grab this free Northern Cardinal Bird Lapbook and Unit Study!

Here are the co-hosts, their choices of books, and activities for the month.

Something 2 Offer
Birds, Nests, and Eggs Nest Scavenger Hunt

Hide The Chocolate
Those Darn Squirrels Fly South – Free online book club.

The Homeschool Scientist
Birds, Nests, and Eggs – Make a Suet Feeder

Forgetful Momma
Snowy Owls Snowy Owl Craft

Table Life Blog
A Nest is Noisy – Art Project.

Eva Varga
Ravens in Winter: Nature Study Activities and Lessons for Teens –  Winter Bird ID

Rainy Day Mum
Coming Home – Needle Felted Robin

6 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Lapbooks, Science, Science Based Tagged With: birds, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolinginwinter, lapbook, life science, nature study, The Nature Book Club Link Up, winter season

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

December 7, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Do geckos live in the rainforest? Asking questions and discovering the answers are wonderful ways for kids to learn about the world around them. Too, you’ll love my Rain Forest – Animals of the Amazon page.

What is the largest reptile? Let’s answer some of those questions for them.

Reptiles are fascinating and can be found on every continent except Antarctica.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

So, wherever you are there are amazing reptiles to observe and learn about. Most kids are fascinated with this topic.

I have learned that kids get so much more out of a lesson when they do rather than just listen.

For example, today we’re creating a replica of a real lizard like the Turnip Tailed Gecko from the Amazon Rainforest.

I can tell you that years from now they will remember facts they learned about it, like how their mouth is black inside, or that they sacrifice their tail to escape predators and the funny-looking way it regenerates.

Questions and Answers About Reptiles

First, look at some facts about reptiles.

  1. What defines a reptile? Reptiles are air-breathing, cold-blooded vertebrates that have scaly bodies rather than hair or feathers; most reptile species are egg-laying (but not all).
  2. What kinds of animals are reptiles? Lizards, snakes, turtles, alligators, and crocodiles.
  3. Do Geckos live in the rainforest? Yes! You will find geckos like the Turnip Tailed Gecko, Bridled Forest Geckos, and the Amazon Lava Lizard to name a few.  In fact, geckos live on all the continents except Antarctica.
  4. What is the world’s largest reptile? That title goes to the saltwater crocodile, one was even recorded at over 20’ long.
  5. How many different types of reptiles are there? There are more than 8,200 different species of reptiles, most of these are snakes and lizards.

5 More Questions and Answers About Reptiles

  1. Do all snakes lay eggs? No only about 70% do, but snakes in colder climates have live births because the eggs would not survive the cold.
  2. What is the biggest species of lizard in the world? That would be the Komodo dragon, it can grow as big as 10 feet long.
  3. What are turtle shells made of? A turtle’s shell is made of bone and is a part of the turtle’s spine. It is made out of two pieces, the carapace (top) and the plastron (bottom), and covered in scoots that are made of keratin.
  4. How fast can alligators run? Alligators can run up to 35 mph for very brief periods, which is faster than Usain Bolt, the fastest man in the world.
  5. Do chameleons really change colors to blend in? Blending in is not the main purpose. Their natural appearance allows them to blend in well with their habitat and evade predation. Another reason is that chameleons can’t regulate their own body temperatures, they change their skin color to reflect or absorb sunlight and thereby deflect or absorb different amounts of heat. Yet another reason for the color change is that changes in the chameleon color may also signify a chameleon’s mood.
Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Also, add one of these books to your lists.

Note I prefer living books more than textbooks. So, I know you’ll find some of them helpful.

Reptile Books and Resources

Add some of these books and resources about reptiles to your library.

Joan Procter, Dragon Doctor: The Woman Who Loved Reptiles

A fascinating picture book biography of a pioneering female scientist who loved reptiles!While other girls played with dolls, Joan preferred the company of reptiles. She carried her favorite lizard with her everywhere--she even brought a crocodile to school!When Joan grew older, she became the Curator of Reptiles at the British Museum. She went on to design the Reptile House at the London Zoo, including a home for the rumored-to-be-vicious komodo dragons. There, just like when she was a little girl, Joan hosted children's tea parties--with her komodo dragon as the guest of honor.

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

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world. Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.Nature Anatomy is the second book in Rothman's Anatomy series – you'll love Nature Anatomy Notebook, Ocean Anatomy, Food Anatomy, and Farm Anatomy, too!

The Ultimate Book of Reptiles: Your guide to the secret lives of these scaly, slithery, and spectacular creatures!

Sink your fangs into the hidden worlds of these scaly and sensational creatures with leading reptile scientist and National Geographic Explorer Dr. Ruchira Somaweera as your guide.Meet the coolest cold-blooded animals ever. From lizards to snakes, turtles to crocodiles, something called a tuatara, and even enormous prehistoric reptiles (think real-life sea monsters!), you’ll discover what makes a reptile a reptile; how these creatures live, hunt, hide, and raise their young, and the wild adaptations that make them so unique. Learn which snake is the most venomous on the planet and which are surprisingly gentle creatures, which reptile is born with a highly developed third eye in its forehead, and which one is so tiny it could balance on the tip of your finger—plus loads of super important conservation information and impactful ways to join the fight to save endangered reptile species right from home!

Professor Noggin's Reptiles and Amphibians Trivia Card Game

  • PLAY & LEARN: Professor Noggin’s series of educational card games encourages kids to learn interesting facts about their favorite subjects.
  • FUN FACTS: How about Reptiles versus Amphibians?!  That's just one of the topic cards in this kids card game.  Find out more fun facts from Eggs to the Komodo Dragon!

Reptiles do the Strangest Things

A great book that parents could read for kids and also includes fun trivia!!

Album of Reptiles

Dramatic incidents preface descriptions of reptiles ranging from crocodiles and cobras to turtles and tuataras

Additionally, I have more hands-on ideas for learning about reptiles.

Hands-On Reptile Activities

Besides our Turnip Tailed Gecko craft, grab a few more of these hands-on reptile activities to supplement your study.

  • Gila Monster Craft
  • Fun Easy Amazon Rainforest Crafts and Make a Bubble Wrap Pattern Anaconda
  • Paper Roll Frilled Neck Lizard
  • Popsicle Stick Crocodile
  • 10 Amazon Rainforest Lizards Facts and How to Make A Fun Iguana
  • A Color of His Own: Chameleon Watercolor Project
Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Finally, look how to make this foam turnip tailed gecko.

Make a Turnip Tailed Gecko Craft from The Amazon Rainforest

You can copy my directions or use the general idea and choose a different lizard, adding its own unique features to your steps.

You will need:

  • Craft foam-green, pink
  • Google eyes
  • Black paint/marker
  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Tacky glue
Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

First, we found an image of the gecko we wanted to recreate on Google.

Draw your lizard onto craft foam with a pencil.

I found it easiest to draw the abdomen, head, and tail, leaving space for the legs that were a little more difficult.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Then I drew in the legs and toes, erasing and redoing them quite a bit.

Those little feet and toes are tricky to get right.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Cut out your outline once you are happy with your lizard shape.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Trace and cut out the head onto another small scrap of craft foam.

Then your child can create an open mouth showing off the turnip-tailed geckos’ important feature of a black mouth interior and pink tongue.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Color with a permanent marker or paint one side of this piece as well as the underside of the head on the main lizard shape black.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Cut a small pink tongue from craft foam.

Once dried completely glue the mouth and tongue into place, only at the back so it can open.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Draw slits over the googly eyes to give them a bit more of a lizard look and glue them into place.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Finally, add the skin coloration details with markers or paint.

To give it a more subtle look I painted random squiggles and dots on a scrap of foam and stamped it on the lizard.

Do Geckos Live in the Rainforest and 10 Facts About Reptiles

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: amazon rain forest, crafts, elementary science, geckos, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, homeschoolscience, life science, science, spring crafts

Navigating the Perfect Present: 22 Gifts for Geography Lovers

December 6, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Check out this list of gifts for geography lovers full of cartographic wonders and geographical marvels that cover all ages and all the different types of travelers in your life.

Navigating the Perfect Present: 22 Gifts for Geography Lovers

Need a gift for your map-loving child?

Or is there is a mom at co-op who is passionate about US Geography or is it your globe-trotting neighbor?

Whether they like to explore by pouring over geography-based documentaries, books, and maps or they wander the globe in real life there is a gift idea here for them.

Geography is a broad and wonderful subject.

Navigating the Perfect Present: 22 Gifts for Geography Lovers

It is simply the study of Earth’s landscapes, peoples, places, and environment.

For those who love traveling or even just learning about different cultures, its a passion.

One can learn about landmarks and natural landforms and study old or new maps.

If you have been homeschooling for any length of time then you know that after you get out of the preschool grades that homeschool geography can tend to get boring.

However, there is no reason it should be with these gifts for geography lovers.

Gift Guides for Families

  • Ignite the Love for Learning: 10 Homeschool Gift Ideas That Spark Joy
  • How To Gift A True Crime Fan : 8 Best Gifts For True Crime Fans
  • 13 Amazing and Fun Gifts for Kids Who Love History
  • Unleash Your Inner Scientist: 12 Amazing Gifts for the Science Lovers
  • Ten Best Tech Gifts for Teen Boys
  • Gifts For Kids Who Are Wild About History
  • 5 Gift Ideas for the Homeschool Mom Who Needs a Cooking Reboot

Let’s unpack some of these thoroughly curated geographic gift ideas and see what you can find to send your friend or loved one on a worldwide journey.

Gifts for Geography Lovers

22 Homeschool Geography Go To Resources & Gift Ideas

Add some of these fun books and resources to your learning day if you're wanting to study geography with multiple ages. Maybe you want to hook your child on geography with a gift or two.

Photo Credit: www.bfbooks.com

Around the World with Picture Books Part II

Each country visited features a selection of animals indigenous to those regions. These beautiful drawings will familiarize students with some remarkable creatures, their habitat and habits, cultivating respect and wonder for the natural world. Part Two covers Europe and South America. In Europe we cover France, Spain, Italy, Holland, Denmark, Sweden, and Great Britain! In South America we cover Ecuador, Chile, Peru, and Brazil!

Scratch Off World Map & US Map

This contains both the US and world maps and while they are targeted at those who travel I think they would also be an amazing way to document as you learn about each new state or country.

Geographic World ScrunchMap, Portable, Easy-to-Store Map of the World, Water and Tear-Resistant Map

For preschoolers through late elementary I would recommend this versatile scrunch map that comes in a world or US version. It is amazing for lessons on  the go or just an impromptu geography lesson on the living room floor.

Around the World in 180 Days: A Multigrade Guide for the Study of World History, Geography, and Cultures

Around the World in 180 Days: A Multigrade Guide for the Study of World History, Geography, and Cultures (Student Workbook) by Sherrie Payne

Rand McNally Junior Classroom Atlas of the World

Our colorful, engaging atlas is ideal for studentsin second through fourth grades and was developed from our award-winning Classroom Atlas, just simplified for younger students.Completely redesigned with a new layout,eye-catching pictures, informative graphics,and fully updated map content.Teaches map and globe skills to younger students.Features photos, graphs, interesting facts, andthought-provoking questions that reinforce map concepts.Includes 15 physical, political, and thematic maps.

National Geographic Visual Atlas of the World: More Than 1,000 Stunning Maps, Illustrations, and Photographs

Representing an exciting new approach in our renowned line of atlases, this large-format reference blends two National Geographic "bests" to create a refreshingly vivid world portrait. Incorporated in the many up-to-the moment regional maps that portray each continent are hundreds of brilliant photographs—each depicting unique natural and cultural treasures that have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the Kasbah of Algiers, from prehistoric rock art to the statue of Liberty, these incomparable locales are under UN protection for future generations to know and enjoy.

Rand McNally Historical Atlas of the World | Grades 5-12+

The Historical Atlas of the World presents important periods and turning points in 5,000 years of world history in over 100 pages of thematic maps. Atlas features: • Presents major periods of world history through more than 100 bold, colorful maps. • Thematic maps include literacy, languages, religions, and more. • Includes a section on benefits of using the atlas. • 112 pages, paperback, 8" x 10".

Professor Noggin's Geography of The United States Trivia Card Game

  • PLAY & LEARN:
    Professor Noggin’s series of educational card games encourages kids to learn interesting facts about their favorite subjects.
  • FUN FACTS: Geography of the United States card game isn't just a point and locate on the map kind of kids card game.  Topic cards include fun facts about Earthquakes, Islands, and the mysterious, 'What city is nicknamed...' making this a fun kids card game for home or the classroom!
  • Encyclopedia of World Geography with Complete World Atlas: Internet Linked

    Encyclopedia of World Geography with Complete World Atlas: Internet Linked

    A Child's Introduction to the World: Geography, Cultures, and People--From the Grand Canyon to the Great Wall of China

    Get ready for an incredible journey, one in which you’ll visit far-off places, meet interesting people, and learn all about continents, countries, climates, and more. This book is also full of fun facts about animals, sports, foods, inventions, and holidays from all over the world.

    National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers, Third Edition

    The latest edition of the award-winning National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers features all new photographs, maps, and graphics.And now, for the first time ever, the National Geographic World Atlas for Young Explorers goes interactive! The 3rd edition is chockfull of bright, bold icons that, thanks to a specially designed National Geographic web site, will allow kids to go beyond the printed page and experience firsthand the sights, sounds, and movements of the world's people, places, and animals. They'll watch brown bears fish for salmon in Alaska, listen to the latest singing sensation from Haiti, experience the power of a volcanic eruption, explore a rain forest, hang out at a local market in India, and much more.

    Geography Through Art

    Geography Through Art Intenational Art Projects for Kids Completely Revised and Updated! Use this book as an exciting way to supplement any study of geography, history, or social studies. "Geography Through Art" is sure to make a lasting addition to your home or school library. You'll find yourself reaching for this indispensable guide again and again to delight and engage students in leanring about geography through the culture and art of peoples around the world.

    Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary: An Introduction To Earth's Geographical Features For Kids (Kids Geography Books)

    Welcome to Geography: An Illustrated A-Z Glossary by B.C. Lester Books! This book takes you across the world's main landforms and biomes, each with a colorful illustration accompanied with a child-friendly definition.

    Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia

    Created in conjunction with the Smithsonian Institution, Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia explores every aspect of our world, from the North to the South Pole, and from the outer atmosphere to the fiery core and from natural processes to human impact.

    Discover terrifying earthquakes, priceless gemstones, and storms that can destroy buildings. Understand how weather works, what causes the seasons, and the power of water to shape the landscape. Explore life on Earth, and countries and cultures from all around the world. Packed with facts, maps, explanations, illustrations, and photographs, Geography: A Visual Encyclopedia is the ultimate guide to our planet.

    Maps and Globes (Reading Rainbow Book)

    Children's Illustrated Atlas

    A picture atlas that takes young readers on a visual journey around the world, from Spain and Portugal to China and Mongolia.Continents and countries are brought to life through stunning photography and
    eye-catching illustrations. Uncover incredible geographical features, wildlife, culture, history, and landmarks in unprecedented detail.

    Mark Twain Geography Workbook, Geography for Kids Grade 7-8

    Geography for kids ages 12+

    Explore the eastern hemisphere with your middle school child with the activity-packed Mark Twain Geography Workbook.

    7th Grade Geography workbooks are a great way for 7th grade and eighth grade students to have a thorough understanding of eastern hemisphere geography through focused lessons and practice.

    The World Game - Geography Card Game

    Kids, teens, and adults will enjoy this geography game that can also double as flashcards for practice.

    Continent Race - Geography Learning Educational Game for Kids

    A collaborative game for ages 7 and up That has varying levels of difficulty so that multiple ages can be included and challenged. Geography games like this are a great way to take your children on global adventures from the coziness of the kitchen table.

    The 50 States: Explore the U.S.A. with 50 fact-filled maps!

    This is a beautifully illustrated children's atlas that is full of interesting facts and figures from landmarks to famous residents, key facts and dates for each state.

    Mango Wood Globe with Wood Base

    Chances are if someone's a geography lover they already have a globe, but it's also a pretty good chance that they love and collect them so go for a unique one, different sizes, and colors.

    State Quarter Map (US State Quarter Series)

    This gift just keeps on giving as they not only get a great map gift but also the fun of the hunt collecting each of the 50 quarters that fit inside.

    Leave a CommentFiled Under: Gift Guides Tagged With: geography, gift, gift list, highschoolgeography, homeschool geography, homeschoolgeography, homeschoolgiftideas

    Ignite the Love for Learning: 10 Homeschool Gift Ideas That Spark Joy

    December 5, 2023 | Leave a Comment
    This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

    Here is a list of 10 homeschool gift ideas for moms, grandparents, friends, or anyone else who wants to put a smile on a homeschooler’s face. Also, look at The Dynamics of How to Homeschool Easily and Smarter.

    When it comes to gift giving for homeschoolers there is the obvious coffee, coffee cups, a new laminator, or funny homeschool-themed t-shirt.

    And then there are gifts that will wow them and be used often with joy.

    Ignite the Love for Learning: 10 Homeschool Gift Ideas That Spark Joy

    Educational items, fun items, or even a simple gift of your time and expertise can be wonderful gifts to give to a homeschooling child, parent, or family.

    To me, the best homeschool gifts are those that have multiple uses, can be used for longer than a few weeks, and by more than one age group.

    Ignite the Love for Learning: 10 Homeschool Gift Ideas That Spark Joy

    Especially when buying for someone else.

    I’s nice to buy something useful that is still a treat and that they might not buy for themself.

    With that in mind here is my list of ideas.

    They spark joy and ignite a love of learning for the whole family.

    Gift Guides for Families

    • How To Gift A True Crime Fan : 8 Best Gifts For True Crime Fans
    • 13 Amazing and Fun Gifts for Kids Who Love History
    • Unleash Your Inner Scientist: 12 Amazing Gifts for the Science Lovers
    • Ten Best Tech Gifts for Teen Boys
    • Gifts For Kids Who Are Wild About History
    • 5 Gift Ideas for the Homeschool Mom Who Needs a Cooking Reboot

    Homeschool Gift Ideas

    Plus we know all homeschoolers love books, but sometimes you want to gift something unique.

    10 Gift List For Homeschool Families

    We know some of the best gifts may not come with a price but we'd love to be able to give one when we can.

    3-Tier Metal Utility Rolling Cart

    . These carts can be used to hold books, art supplies, games, school supplies, used as a listening center, daily work boxes, morning time supplies, or one of a million other uses. You can never have enough.

    The Julia Rothman Collection: Farm Anatomy, Nature Anatomy, and Food Anatomy

    Julia Rothman's anatomy books are just one of many lovely books that can be used by a wide variety of ages and appeal to many learning styles with their beautiful illustrations and small information bites. The set contains the first three but there is also a wildlife and ocean book as well.

    100 Colors Dual Tip Art Markers Sketch Pens

    These markers are for more than just aspiring commercial artists. With dual-ended tips they are fun
    for coloring, writing, calligraphy, watercolor effects, mixed media projects, and more, making assignments and free time even more fun.

    Essential Oil Diffusers with Top 10 Oil Diffuser Gift Set

    It may be a stereotype but it’s probably something that is on many homeschool families' wish lists if they don't already have one.Essential oils can help set a calming mood, an uplifting mood, create a scent for moods, or stimulate the brain for clearer thinking.

    Cardboard Construction Toolkit in Large Toolbox (360 Pieces) | STEM + STEAM Educational Toys

    I recently discovered this amazing tool and it shot right to the top of our wishlist. We do a lot of cardboard projects, and it can be difficult and sometimes dangerous to cut cardboard down to size with a razor knife. Not only do they have a safer cutting option that leaves clean edges, but you can also get connectors to easily put pieces together and make them movable as well.

    Really Loud Librarians - Fast-Paced Word-Shouting Board Game

    Test your useless knowledge: Draw category cards and shout words matching the category and letter on the race track, turning your useless knowledge into useful points.

    Cricut Explore Air 2 - A DIY Cutting Machine for all Crafts

    This is a pretty big one and would make a great gift for the whole homeschooling family to make t-shirts, cups, signs, labels, and other crafts. You can use this machine to cut paper, vinyl, iron-on material, thin fabrics, and poster boards. Not only is it a super machine for craft and school projects but can be used to make things to sell at craft fairs, kids workshops, etc, and teaches children about entrepreneurship and business.

    Amazon.com Gift Card in a Tartan Plaid Tin

    Sometimes you just don’t know what to get for the homeschool family that has everything, and while a gift card may seem impersonal, I can assure you a homeschool mom or kids will appreciate being able to grab something they really want or need.

    Waypoint Geographic World ScrunchMap, Portable, Easy-to-Store Map of the World, Water and Tear-Resistant Map

    Portable, Pocket-Size World Map: Introducing ScrunchMap, the world map that fits right in your pocket, purse, or backpack. Explore the world's wonders, or plan your next journey, all in the palm of your hand. The map comes with a lightweight storage bag.

    52 Essential Life Skills: No-Excuses Game to Teach Kids, Teens & Adults How To Care for Self & Chores

  • RECOMMENDED FOR KIDS, COUPLES, PARENTS: award-winning essential series by Harvard educator/wife/mom - great self care gifts for women, promote marriage relationship and simplify parenting
  • NO MORE EXCUSES, IMMEDIATELY ACTIONABLE: learn and apply 52 essential life skills with simple how-to instructions and kid-friendly videos. Activities on cards are organized by ages, difficulty levels & responsibility categories
  • Leave a CommentFiled Under: Gift Guides Tagged With: gift, gift list, homeschoolgiftideas

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    December 4, 2023 | Leave a Comment
    This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

    Sharing interesting facts for kids about Africa is a great way to introduce or refresh information on this amazing continent. Also, grab more ideas on my post Free Africa Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning | Free Continent & Country Reports.

    There is much to be learned about Africa as a continent.

    For, you want to learn about its people, customs, animals, plants, landforms, and the resources that we get from there.

    It is truly one of the most diverse places on earth from the Savanna to the Congo.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    We’re focusing on the amazing African wildlife that covers it and makes its homes in all the different biomes.

    Too, we’re creating a cute handprint cheetah and then digging into some interesting facts.

    Whether you are just looking for a single activity or want to create a whole unit there is no shortage of ideas and information.

    Books About Africa for Kids

    Also, add some of these books to your reading diet.

    13 Resources for Children Studying About Africa

    Add one or two of these books to your study about the art of Africa.

    Africa For Kids: People, Places and Cultures - Children Explore The World Books

    Africa For Kids: People, Places, Culture gives children not only a peek into the land and its people but the artwork of even simple everyday items like weaving and serving plates.

    Africa Coloring Book For Kids!

    Here is a coloring book filled with African souvenirs to color that is soothing and a great springboard for discussion.

    African Patterns Scrapbook Paper

    I found this beautiful book of African Patterned Scrapbook paper that can be used for many craft projects.

    Africa, Amazing Africa: Country by Country

    Atinuke’s first non-fiction title is a major publishing event: a celebration of all 55 countries on the African continent! Her beautifully-written text captures Africa’s unique mix of the modern and the traditional, as she explores its geography, its peoples, its animals, its history, its resources and its cultural diversity. The book divides Africa into five sections: South, East, West, Central and North, each with its own introduction. This is followed by a page per country, containing a delightful mix of friendly, informative text and colourful illustrations.

    Africa Is Not a Country

    Enter into the daily life of children in the many countries of modern Africa. Countering stereotypes, Africa Is Not a Country celebrates the extraordinary diversity of this vibrant continent as experienced by children at home, at school, at work, and at play.

    The Water Princess

    With its wide sky and warm earth, Princess Gie Gie’s kingdom is a beautiful land. But clean drinking water is scarce in her small African village. And try as she might, Gie Gie cannot bring the water closer; she cannot make it run clearer. Every morning, she rises before the sun to make the long journey to the well. Instead of a crown, she wears a heavy pot on her head to collect the water. After the voyage home, after boiling the water to drink and clean with, Gie Gie thinks of the trip that tomorrow will bring. And she dreams. She dreams of a day when her village will have cool, crystal-clear water of its own.

    Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions (Picture Puffin Books)

    Artists Leo and Diane Dillon won their second consecutive Caldecott Medal for this stunning ABC of African culture. "Another virtuoso performance. . . . Such an astute blend of aesthetics and information is admirable, the child's eye will be rewarded many times over."

    When Stars Are Scattered

    Omar and his brother Hassan, two Somali boys, have spent a long time in the Dadaab refugee camp. Separated from their mother, they are looked after by a friendly stranger. Life in the camp isn't always easy. The hunger is constant . . . but there's football to look forward to, and now there's a chance Omar will get to go to school . . .With a heart-wrenching fairytale ending, this incredible true story is brought to life by Victoria's stunning illustrations. This book perfectly depicts life in a refugee camp for 8-12 year olds.

    The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Young Reader's Edition

    When a terrible drought struck William Kamkwamba's tiny village in Malawi, his family lost all of the season's crops, leaving them with nothing to eat and nothing to sell. William began to explore science books in his village library, looking for a solution. There, he came up with the idea that would change his family's life forever: he could build a windmill. Made out of scrap metal and old bicycle parts, William's windmill brought electricity to his home and helped his family pump the water they needed to farm the land. Retold for a younger audience, this exciting memoir shows how, even in a desperate situation, one boy's brilliant idea can light up the world. Complete with photographs, illustrations, and an epilogue that will bring readers up to date on William's story, this is the perfect edition to read and share with the whole family.

    Things Fall Apart

    Things Fall Apart is the first of three novels in Chinua Achebe's critically acclaimed African Trilogy. It is a classic narrative about Africa's cataclysmic encounter with Europe as it establishes a colonial presence on the continent. Told through the fictional experiences of Okonkwo, a wealthy and fearless Igbo warrior of Umuofia in the late 1800s, Things Fall Apart explores one man's futile resistance to the devaluing of his Igbo traditions by British political andreligious forces and his despair as his community capitulates to the powerful new order. With more than 20 million copies sold and translated into fifty-seven languages, Things Fall Apart provides one of the most illuminating and permanent monuments to African experience. Achebe does not only capture life in a pre-colonial African village, he conveys the tragedy of the loss of that world while broadening our understanding of our contemporary realities.

    Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guides, 3)

    Those looking for a concise yet informative, visually breathtaking yet affordable East African safari need look no further than this spectacular field guide. Featuring full-color photos of 475 common species of bird, mammal, snake, lizard, insect, tree, and flower, Wildlife of East Africa takes us on an exquisite one-volume tour through the living splendor of the main national parks and game reserves of Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Many of the species included--from pelicans to plovers, ostriches to elephants, from the daintiest of antelopes to cattlelike giants, from leopards to lions, baboons to gorillas, chameleons to crocodiles, acacias to aloes--also inhabit neighboring countries. The selection was based on the personal experiences of the authors, wildlife experts who have been leading safaris in the region for more than twenty years.

    Facing the Lion: Growing Up Maasai on the African Savanna

    Heads up: this is a great book but there is a rite of passage and has a part about circumcision.

    Joseph Lemasolai Lekuton gives American kids a firsthand look at growing up in Kenya as a member of a tribe of nomads whose livelihood centers on the raising and grazing of cattle. Readers share Lekuton's first encounter with a lion, the epitome of bravery in the warrior tradition. They follow his mischievous antics as a young Maasai cattle herder, coming-of-age initiation, boarding school escapades, soccer success, and journey to America for college. Lekuton's riveting text combines exotic details of nomadic life with the universal experience and emotions of a growing boy.

    The Bitter Side of Sweet

    Fifteen-year-old Amadou counts the things that matter. For two years what has mattered are the number of cacao pods he and his younger brother, Seydou, can chop down in a day. The higher the number the safer they are. The higher the number the closer they are to paying off their debt and returning home. Maybe. The problem is Amadou doesn’t know how much he and Seydou owe, and the bosses won’t tell him. The boys only wanted to make money to help their impoverished family, instead they were tricked into forced labor on a plantation in the Ivory Coast. With no hope of escape, all they can do is try their best to stay alive—until Khadija comes into their lives. She’s the first girl who’s ever come to camp, and she’s a wild thing. She fights bravely every day, attempting escape again and again, reminding Amadou what it means to be free. But finally, the bosses break her, and what happens next to the brother he has always tried to protect almost breaks Amadou. The three band together as family and try just once more to escape.

    Next, look at some of the interesting facts for kids about Africa.

    12 Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa

    1. The 4 main biomes in Africa are Deserts (the Sahara, Kalahari) Tropical and Subtropical Grasslands, Savannas and Shrublands.
    2. The Congo rainforest is located here and is the second largest rainforest in the world and is home to over 10,000 species of animals.
    3. There are over 2,000 spoken languages here but the most widely spoken language is Arabic. 
    4. Africa is home to three of the seven species of “Big Cats”, the lion, leopard, and cheetah.
    5. Giraffes have a blue tongue; this blue color gives their tongue extra protection since they are exposed to a lot of sunlight while they feed all day long.
    6. African Lions are nocturnal animals and spend roughly 15-20 hours of every day sleeping.
    7. The same way that babies will suck their thumb for comfort the African elephant sucks on its trunk.
    8. The most abundant animal in Africa is the antelopes which cover the entire continent and have over 80 species.
    9. Africa has the tallest animal on earth, the giraffe, as well as the heaviest on earth, the elephant.
    10. Africa is the world’s hottest continent, temperatures in the Sahara often reach over 100 degrees F.
    11. The deadliest African animal is the adorable hippopotamus, they are primarily herbivores but are aggressive when it comes to protecting their territory, themselves, and their offspring.
    12. The country Nigeria sets the record for the most twins born in the world with an average of 50 sets of twins in every 1,000 births.
    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    You can learn more about this fascinating continent as a family by watching Africa: Destination World by Nat Geo Kids.

    Also, here is some information to add to your study about the African Cheetah.

    The African Cheetah

    Almost all wild cheetahs can be found in sub-Saharan Africa.

    And they are the fastest land animal in the world, reaching speeds of almost 70mph in short bursts.

    They are very distinctive with long slender bodies and of course those spots.

    African Cheetahs are unfortunately in the “vulnerable” category and are at risk of extinction in the wild.

    Education and conservation are the best ways to protect these gorgeous creatures, December 4th has been marked as International Cheetah Day to call attention to them.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    So, we’re recreating one in its habitat with a cute little handprint, a classic preschool craft.

    Cute Handprint Cheetah

    I thought this time we could dress up the usual handprint craft by adding some layers to create a beautiful Savanna sunset and a Baobab tree.

    You will need:

    • Pink construction paper
    • Orange construction paper
    • Yellow construction paper
    • Brown construction paper
    • Green construction paper
    • tan/cream construction paper
    • Yellow craft paint
    • Black craft paint
    • Black pen
    • Glue stick
    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Demonstrate how to tear the pink, orange, and yellow paper into strips, you will only need about 2 of each.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    At the same time have them tear smaller strips of brown for the tree and green for the leaves. You help them tear a half circle for the sun.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Use a glue stick to lay down your sunset-colored strips and the sun in the center on just the top half of the tan construction paper.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Add the tree trunk, branches, and leaves.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Paint the entire hand yellow and press down on to the paper, with the fingers pointed down toward the bottom of the page.

    You can either paint on the tail with a paintbrush or repaint a single finger and press onto the back to make a tail.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Allow the yellow paint to dry at least partially and then make spots by painting your child’s finger black and having them stamp wherever they like on the yellow.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Once everything has dried you can use a small black fine point pen to add face details.

    Interesting Facts For Kids About Africa | Cute Handprint Cheetah

    Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: Africa, cheetah, handprint, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science

    • « Go to Previous Page
    • Page 1
    • Interim pages omitted …
    • Page 97
    • Page 98
    • Page 99
    • Page 100
    • Page 101
    • Interim pages omitted …
    • Page 402
    • Go to Next Page »

    Primary Sidebar

    Footer

    Privacy Policy | About Me | Reviews | Contact | Advertise

    Categories

    Archives

    Tina Robertson is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

    Copyright © 2025 · 5 TNT LLC · Log in · Privacy Policy