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Tina Robertson

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

May 19, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

A desert sensory bin is a fun way to introduce your toddlers and preschoolers to desert animals and the characteristics of the desert.

A sensory bin is like a buildable interactive diorama for younger children that lets them explore their senses and whatever the topic is you have chosen for them to learn about.

In this case it is a desert sensory bin to discover the dry, sandy climate and some of the animals that make their home there.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

During the day, the desert sun is very strong, and it gets super-hot.

But when the sun goes down at night, the desert can get very chilly.

So, the animals and plants have to be ready for big changes in temperature. It’s like two different worlds in one amazing place.

BOOKS ABOUT THE DESERT FOR KIDS

Too, look at these books about the desert.

When possible we prefer learning through living books so I add them as I find them.

18 Desert Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these living books and references books about the desert to your library.

The Seed & the Giant Saguaro

Children's reader on the subject of deserts and what lives there Large book with very large kid friendly illustrations

Cactus Hotel (Rise and Shine)

It is another hot day in the desert. Birds and other animals scurry about looking for food. When they get tired they stop to rest at a giant cactus. It is their hotel in the desert!Many different animals live in the cactus hotel. It protects them; and they protect it, by eating the pests that could harm the cactus.The cactus grows larger and larger and will live for about two hundred years. When one animal moves out, another moves in. There is never a vacancy in the cactus hotel.This story--about a desert, a giant cactus, and the animals who live in it--is one that even the youngest child will understand and enjoy.

Desert Giant: The World of the Saguaro Cactus

A venerable saguaro cactus stands like a statue in the hot desert landscape, its armlike branches reaching fifty feet into the air. From a distance it appears to be completely still and solitary--but appearances can be deceptive. In fact, this giant tree of the desert is alive with activity. Its spiny trunk and branches are home to a surprising number of animals, and its flowers and fruit feed many desert dwellers. Gila woodpeckers and miniature elf owls make their homes inside the saguaro's trunk. Long-nosed bats and fluttering white doves drink the nectar from its showy white flowers. People also play a role in the saguaro's story: each year the Tohono O'odham Indians gather its sweet fruit in a centuries-old harvest ritual.

Where Is the Sahara Desert?

Imagine over three million square miles of sand dunes that are as tall as a ten-story building. That place is real -- it's the Sahara Desert! Vast, yes! And home to fascinating creatures such as ostriches and fennec foxes as well as amazing plant life. The shallow roots of the mesquite tree can grow almost 200 feet across to absorb water. Readers will also learn about the famous trade routes of the past with caravans of up to 10,000 camels, European explorers to the region (some very unlucky ones), and native populations like the Berber and Tuareg, the faces of the men are blue from the dye in the veils they always wear.

Where Is Antarctica?

Antarctica, the earth's southernmost continent, was virtually untouched by humans until the nineteenth century. Many famous explorers journeyed (and often died) there in the hope of discovering a land that
always seemed out of reach. This book introduces readers to this
desert--yes, desert!--continent that holds about 90 percent of the
world's ice; showcases some of the 200 species that call Antarctica
home, including the emperor penguin; and discusses environmental dangers to the continent, underscoring how what happens to Antarctica affects the entire world.

A Desert Scrapbook: Dawn to Dusk in the Sonoran Desert

In the early morning hours, an artist stirs. Gathering her paints and notebook, she heads into the Arizona Sonoran Desert to explore its treasures. Sketching, painting, and writing, she records all that she sees and as night falls, she spreads out her pictures to make this scrapbook of her day, from dawn to dusk.

This Place Is Dry: Arizona's Sonoran Desert

Surveys the living conditions in Arizona's Sonora Desert for the people and unusual animals that live there. Also describes the engineering accomplishment of Hoover Dam.

Desert Solitaire

In Desert Solitaire, Edward Abbey recounts his many escapades, adventures, and epiphanies as an Arches National Park ranger outside Moab, Utah. Brimming with arresting insights, impassioned arguments for wilderness conservation, and a raconteur’s wit, it is one of Abbey’s most critically acclaimed works.   Through stories and philosophical musings, Abbey reflects on the condition of our remaining wilderness, the future of a civilization, and his own internal struggle with morality. As the world continues its rapid development, Abbey’s cry to maintain the natural beauty of the West remains just as relevant today as when this book first appeared in 1968.

Coyote Raid In Cactus Canyon

While the rest of the animals hide from view from a group of rambunctious coyotes, the fearless gang takes full advantage of the open space of Cactus Canyon and participates with great zeal in an array of nighttime activities, but an unexpected encounter with a rattlesnake quickly puts an end to the coyotes fun as they are sent running for cover, too!

Roxaboxen

Marian called it Roxaboxen. There across the road, it looked like any rocky hill—nothing but sand and rocks, and some old wooden boxes. But it was a special place. And all children needed to go there was a long stick and a soaring imagination.

Why Oh Why Are Deserts Dry? All About Deserts

n this latest installation of the Cat in the Hat's Learning Library, the Cat takes Sally and Dick to explore different kinds of deserts around the world,  from the hot, dry Sonoran and Mojavi to the bitter cold Gobi and Antarctica. Young readers learn why deserts are dry, and how plants and animals—including cactus, kangaroos, camels, penguins, roadrunners, and many others—have adapted to survive the unforgiving climate. Also included: how sand dunes are formed; the reason we see mirages, and how shallow water beneath the surface of the ground can create an oasis. Fans of the new PBS preschool science show The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! (which is based on the Learning Library series) won't want to miss this hot new addition to the series!

One Day in the Desert

‘A wounded mountain lion moves from his mountain habitat to a Papago Indian hut in Arizona’s Sonoran desert during a record-breaking July day. All creation adapts to the blistering heat until a cloudburst causes a flash flood. With a measured yet vivid style, this introduction to desert ecology makes a memorable impact."

Deserts

This intriguing yet simple description will captivate young readers who have an interest in the unfamiliar.

A Walk in the Desert (Biomes of North America)

Take a walk through the desert. This hot, dry biome of the southwest is full of life. How do plants and animals of the desert live? As you wander through the desert, discover how each and every plant and animal relies on the others to live and grow.

Wildlife of the Southwest Deserts

Learn about the fascinating creatures of the desert Southwest including: Venomous Animals Insects and Arthropods Rattlesnakes, Lizards, Desert Tortoise The Roadrunner and other Birds Bighorn Sheep, Kit Fox, Coyote.

Indian Uses of Desert Plants

Now in its fourth edition, this is a beautiful book with both historical and contemporary images showing the most important plants used by Native Americans. Medicinal, food resources, tools and shelter are just some of the uses discussed. Plants shown and described are among the most widespread plants in the desert Southwest.

Desert Snakes

Learn all about desert snakes with the beautiful book by James W. Cornett.

The Namib Desert

An excellent introduction to the natural history of the Namib Desert of southwest Africa. At its heart, second only to the Atacama Desert of Chile and Peru as the driest place on Earth. Also, it is the oldest desert on our planet and the only desert with a megafauna including elephant, giraffe, and rhinoceros. The lofty orange dunes, highest in the world, are also shown and discussed.

Also, many animals make their home in the desert. Some animals, like camels, are big and strong.

Others, like lizards, are small and speed, they all have special ways to stay cool and find food in the desert.

 Let’s learn about some of these “cool” desert animals

DESERT ANIMALS

CAMELS

  • Often called “ships of the desert” due to their endurance.
  • Humps- Store fat reserves for energy, not water. Enables survival during limited food.
  • Long Eyelashes- Protect eyes from sand, maintaining visibility in dust storms.
  • Wide Feet- Improve movement on sand by distributing weight and preventing sinking.

LIZARDS

  • Prefer sun exposure and basking on rocks.
  • Scales: Provide protection, thermoregulation, and camouflage.
  • Tail: Some can detach their tail as a defense mechanism; it regenerates.
  • Food: Diets vary, including insects, plants, and small vertebrates.

SNAKES

  • Move via slithering.
  • Skin: Scaly, shed periodically for growth and repair.
  • Tongue: Used as a chemosensory organ for detecting stimuli and prey.
  • Food: Varying diets, swallowing prey whole.

SCORPIONS

  • Possess an exoskeleton and venomous stinger.
  • Claws-Used for prey capture.
  • Stinger- Used for venom injection in predation or defense.
  • Nighttime-Mostly active at night to avoid heat.

VULTURES

  • Vultures are big birds that help keep the desert clean. They eat animals that have died.
  • Wings-They can fly very high in the sky and can see far distances.
  • Heads-Their bald heads help keep them clean when they eat.
  • Groups-Vultures often fly in groups called kettles.

MEERKATS

  • Food-Opportunistic omnivores, eating insects, small vertebrates, and plants.
  • Live in social groups called mobs or gangs.
  • Group Living- Enhances predator detection, defense, and offspring rearing.
  • Lookouts- Individuals act as sentinels, surveying for threats.
How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Then look at these activities to learn more about the desert.

DESERT ACTIVITIES AND RESOURCES

  • Check out these 8 Desert Craft Ideas | How To Make Egg Carton Cactus to focus a bit on the flora of the desert biome.
  • Get little ones active while still on theme with these Desert Themed Yoga ideas.
  • 7 Desert Crafts For Kids: How To Make A Clay Cactus Jewelry Holder
  • Watch the video What Animals Live in the Desert? To learn more about some of the most common creatures who live there.
  • Exploring Edible Cactus: Hands-on Learning (The Desert)
  • Build fine motor skills while you work on bending and folding paper with Scorpion Origami.
  • The book based Camel Race STEAM Activity Inspired by The Wooden Camel gets kids thinking critically.
  • Easy Desert Animal Crafts And A Scorpion Creation
  • Memory games are great for strengthening various cognitive skills, including memory, attention, focus, and problem-solving. Here are Free Printable Shape Matching Games for Desert Theme that also incorporate early math.
  • Explore 3 completely different desert habitats and learn How to Make A Desert Triorama About the Gobi, Sahara, & Antarctica to display the flora and fauna of each.
  • While you are learning about snakes of the desert here is a fun craft Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool to learn about this aspect of snakes.

 

Of course a good reference book nearby is important as well. Both Nature Anatomy and Wildlife Anatomy are a treasure trove of information for little learners on up to upper grades.

HOW TO CREATE AN ENGAGING DESERT SENSORY BIN

I recommend including your child in the creation of the sensory bin from the start so you can talk about the characteristics of each element as you put them in place.

You will need:

  • Safari Desert Animals
  • Sensory Bin Tub
  • Play Sand
  • Small pebbles
  • Air dry clay, paint

Start with a good sized bin.

You can use anything you have on hand but I really like to use stackable sensory bins like those I listed above.

You can put a variety of base filler like sand, rice, pebbles, and more, leaving them to be turned into an amazing themed sensory bin.

Add sand until it’s about halfway full.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

You can leave it just sand or add some small pebbles or rocks to give it more texture and of course sorting possibilities.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

If you would like to add a few cactus plants you can make some with air dry clay ahead of time and paint them green, add some broken toothpick pieces for spikes.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Set a few cacti in place.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Place plastic desert animals in the sensory bin.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Other items I like to include with a sensory bin are small cups or bowls, slotted spoons, small strainers, and even flash cards with animals related to the topic.

How To Create An Engaging Desert Sensory Bin For Hands-On Play

Finally, look at a few more sensory bins.

SENSORY BINS

  • Sensory Play Made Easy: Crafting a Community Helpers Sensory Bin
  • How To Create An Engaging Cranberry Sensory Bin
  • 10 Kindergarten Sensory Bin Ideas | How To Make A Summer Sensory Bin
  • Discover The Magic Of Nocturnal Creatures | Nocturnal Animal Sensory Bin
  • How to Make a Watermelon Sensory Bin for Play and Learning
  • 9 Hands on Weather Activities for Kids and Awesome Weather Sensory Tray
  • Fun Corn Life Cycle Preschool Sensory Bin and Printable Lifecycle Foldout

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: desert, earth science, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschool, life science, science

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

May 18, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

A nature sun catcher wand is a translucent frame filled with pressed or dried natural materials, such as leaves, petals, or seeds.

This adorable craft captures the beauty of natural elements. For example, your child can add leaves, flowers, and feathers. It preserves them in a way that allows sunlight to illuminate all the details inside.

They are often hung in windows or like the one we’re making today is a nature wand.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Also, adding a fun educational slant with this craft keeps it fun.

Too, you don’t really need many materials and much of them you have in your yard or you can collect on a nature walk.

And this nature sun catcher makes for a fun way to preserve nature finds through every season.

First, look at adding some nature books to your reading day.

BOOKS ABOUT NATURE FOR KIDS

We use living books because they make topics fun and their vocabulary is beautiful.

And we’ll use reference books too.

6 Nature Study Books and Resources

Add one of these resources or books to your study about nature. They all give you a starting point or use one or two of them as a nature spine.

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.

Handbook of Nature Study

The Handbook of Nature Study is a classic Charlotte Mason text. A big book full of information on pretty much every area of nature study from tools to birds, weather, and rocks.

The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

This beautifully packaged facsimile of Edith Holden’s original diary is filled with a naturalist’s masterful paintings and delightful observations chronicling the English countryside throughout 1906. As one of the few true records of the time in print, the handwritten thoughts and paintings contained in The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady transport readers to a more refined, romantic, and simpler time.

Botanicum

Filled with both recognisable, and tropical flora, Botanicum is the ultimate companion guide to the variety of plants, and how they have evolved and grow.

Curiositree: Natural World: A Visual Compendium of Wonders from Nature - Jacket unfolds into a huge wall poster!

Discover the interconnectedness of the natural world and learn why living things look and behave the way they do in a series of visually compelling information charts, maps, and cutaways, all illustrated in a nostalgic, vintage style. Packed with incredible facts about the natural world and the animals that populate it, the whole family will enjoy the full-page spreads grouped into the categories of habitats, species, and adaptations.

Nature Study & Outdoor Science Journal: The Thinking Tree Presents: A Creative Book of Observation, Drawing, Coloring, Writing & Discovery

The Thinking Tree presents: A Creative Book of Observation, Drawing, Coloring, Writing & Discovery Through Nature, ideal for all ages (even adults!)

Creativity and discovery at its best, this journal is a bestseller among The Thinking Tree publications! Your nature-loving student will treasure this journal designed to ignite their wonder of the outdoors. With more than 180 lessons and beautiful illustrations, the Nature Study Journal invites the student to read, write, draw, color, explore and appreciate the outdoors while covering a variety of subjects such as science, poetry, observation instructions, and more.

Next, here are some ideas for more nature sun catchers.

MORE NATURE SUN CATCHER IDEAS

  • Frozen Nature Ice Sun Catcher for Preschool Play and Fun
  • Botanical Sun Catchers
  • Freezing Nature’s Beauty – Take advantage of the cold and make frozen sun catchers
  • Laced Leaf Suncatchers
  • Botanical Sun Catchers
  • How To Make Tissue Paper Suncatchers
How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Finally, look at how to make this fun nature sun catcher wand.

HOW TO MAKE A NATURE SUN CATCHER WAND

First, look at this easy list of supplies:

  • Cardboard (cereal boxes work well)
  • Pencil
  • Scissors
  • Clear contact paper
  • Yellow nature items (petals, leaves, etc.)
  • Glue
  • Stick or twig
How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Draw the sun.

 On a piece of cardboard, draw a sun shape with a circle in the center.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Cut two sun shapes.


Fold the cardboard and cut out the sun shape so you end up with two matching pieces.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Then, cut out the center.

Cut out the center circle from both sun shapes to create a window.

Pain your sun with a pretty yellow.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Next, attach the contact paper.

Cut a circle slightly bigger than the opening from clear contact paper.

Stick it to the back of one of the sun cutouts, covering the center opening.

Add nature finds.

Press yellow nature items (like small flowers, petals, or leaves) onto the sticky side of the contact paper.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Seal the window.  

Place the second sun cutout on top of the first, slightly offset to create a fun 3D layered effect.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Glue and press it down firmly.

Finish the sun.  Add another circle of contact paper to the front to seal in the nature items.

How To Make A Nature Sun Catcher Wand

Add the wand.  Glue a stick to the back of the sun to complete your wand.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, nature catcher, sun, sun catcher

Respiratory System Fun Facts For Kids And Free Worksheets

May 17, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re learning some respiratory system fun facts, and I have some free respiratory system activity pages. Also, I have this Human Body Crafts page for more hands-on ideas. And this Beautiful Human Body Lapbook and Fun Unit Study.

We don’t really think about breathing, but it is amazing the way it happens. The respiratory system is the part of your body that helps you breathe and keeps you alive.

The respiratory system is the group of organs and tissues that work together to help you breathe.

Respiratory System Fun Facts For Kids And Free Worksheets

And the respiratory system is your body’s way of bringing in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.

Every cell in your body needs oxygen to create energy. Without it, your body wouldn’t be able to move.

So, you’ll love using these easy free activity worksheets to learn about it.

HUMAN BODY BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at these human body books to use with your unit study.

I prefer to use living books then add reference books to our research.

16 Human Body Books & Hands-on Resources

Add a few of these fun resources whether you do a couple of lesson plans about the human body or a unit study.

The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body

One of the resources we used as a reference for this activity was The Way We Work, it covers a lot of interesting topics on the human body.

Medical Torso Human Body Model Anatomy

Vivid Human torso organ structure: 15 Pcs Removable Organs including: Torso, Brain (2-part), Heart, Esophagus and Aorta, Lungs (4-part), Cranial Cap, Stomach, Diaphragm, Liver, pancreas and spleen, small and large intestine. The torso structure showing the relative position, morphological features, anatomy of the head, neck and internal organs, especially the respiratory, digestive, urinary and nervous systems.

Human Organs Shape Silicone Molds 8 Pc

[HUMAN ORGANS SILICONE MOLD]: 8 Pcs Human Organs Mold With Different Shapes, Include 1 Human Heart Mold, 1 Brain Silicone Mold, 1 Liver Mold, 1 Intestinal Mold, 1 Lung Mold, 1 Stomach Mold, 1 Brain Stem Mold, 1 Kidney Mold.

Ooze Labs: Visible Human Body with Squishable Organs

This human body with squishable organs is another great way to identify the organs and become familiar with their layout in the body, it has that gross factor that so many kids love.

Human Body Model for Kids 8PCS Mini Body Parts

8PCS Human Organ Figures Set:Human organ anatomy parts display model children learning toy include small intestine, large intestine, lung, brain, stomach, heart, liver, kidney. Suitable for boys and girls over 6 years old,good for brain ability and imagination.

Anatomy (Quickstudy Academic)

Complete labeled illustrations of over 1,400 anatomical identifications.Loaded with beautifully illustrated diagrams clearly and concisely labeled for easy identification.

Basher Science: Human Body: A Book with Guts!

Basher Science: Human Body, A Book with Guts! Created & illustrated by Simon Basher, written by Dan Green

From the best-selling team that brought you The Periodic Table, Physics, Biology, and Astronomy comes a topic that's close to our hearts-literally! Meet the characters and processes that that keep the human body chugging along. From the basic building blocks like Cell, DNA, and Protein, to Bones, Muscles, and all of the fun-loving Organs, readers will cozy up with the guys on the inside. Trust us-Liver has never looked better!

Heart Anatomy Poster - LAMINATED

High-quality 3 MIL LAMINATION for added durability

Tear Resistant

Human Heart Anatomy Floor Puzzle

HUMAN ORGANS LEARNING: Marvel at the rich complexities of the human heart muscle! Every piece has a unique shape designed to outline each major part of the heart organ, making these an exciting challenge to assemble. Each puzzle includes an Anatomy Reference Guide, so you can learn as you build!

Fixed Bones X-Rays, Black/White, 14 Pieces,

  • Authentic x-ray images
  • Works with any light source or light table)
  • Matching facture card
  • Detailed teaching guide

4 Pack - Anatomical Poster Set - Laminated - Muscular, Skeletal, Ligaments of the Joints, Anatomy of the Spine

  • Set of 4 Posters Made in the USA
  • Posters are 18" x 24” in size
  • High-quality 3 MIL lamination for added durability
  • Tear Resistant

My First Book About the Brain (Dover Science For Kids Coloring Books)

Discover the workings of the body's most complex organ! How does the brain control the rest of the body? How does it enable the senses to function, regulate speech, affect balance, and influence sleep and dreams? These 25 illustrations to color explain every aspect of the brain's important jobs, from communicating with the central nervous system to retaining memories. Suitable for ages 8–12.

Skull Anatomy Coloring Book: Incredibly Detailed Self-Test Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book

Enjoy This Coloring Book with 34 Beautiful Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Pages.

The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book Provides A Means Of Learning About The Structure And Function Of The Human Skull Anatomy Through A Process Of Coloring-By-Directions.

Coloring The Human Skull Anatomy And Its Nerves Is The Most Effective Way To Study The Structure And Functions Of Human Skull Anatomy. You Assimilate Information And Make Visual Associations With Key Terminology When Coloring In The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book, All While Having Fun.

1 Pair Plastic Skeleton Hands

Fall is a grea time to grab a set of hands at Dollar Tree but also here is a pair if you're doing a unit study and need one now.

Circulatory System Poster

This poster makes a great reference and can be used with older children to help them add more detail to their project.

The Circulatory System (Your Body Systems: Blastoff! Readers

Our bodies contain a super highway of blood vessels that carry nutrients, waste, and much more from our heads to our toes. This network is the circulatory system! Beginning with a deep breath in, this fact-filled title uses easy-to-follow text and diagrams to allow readers to dive inside the bodys circulatory system!

The human body is a complex being made up of systems that keep us alive and moving! In this series, readers will dive into the bodys systems though engaging, leveled text and related diagrams that follow the parts and functions of each system. Get a microscopic view inside the body with A Closer Look, and put new knowledge into action with a hands-on activity. Check out what is happening inside the body with each title!

Then, look at some respiratory system fun facts.

And i have some hands-on activities too.

RESPIRATORY SYSTEM FUN FACTS

  • Bringing in oxygen (O₂) and remove carbon dioxide (CO₂) is the respiratory system’s main job to exchange gases.
  • Did you know your lungs are not the same size? The left lung is a bit smaller to make space for your heart.
  • You start by breathing in through your nose or mouth. Your nose even helps warm and clean the air.
  • Then the air travels down your throat (pharynx) and passes through the voice box (larynx).
  • Next the air then moves into the trachea, also called your windpipe.
  • The diaphragm is the main muscle involved in breathing.
Respiratory System Fun Facts For Kids And Free Worksheets

Additionally, look at these hands-on activities.

HANDS-ON RESPIRATORY SYSTEM ACTIVITIES

  • 8 Facts About the Respiratory System & Fun Lung Craft for Kids
  • How to Measure Lung Capacity
  • Simple Lung Craft For Preschoolers To Learn About The Human Body
  • Human Body Activities: Respiratory System Model
  • Respiratory System Lesson
  • Lung Science Experiment and Tobacco Prevention Resources

Also, look at the free worksheets included in this download.

  • Respiratory system diagram & labeling activity
  • Alveoli diagram & Parts of the alveol labeling activity
  • Parts and function of the respiratory system
  • Fun word search
  • Coloring page
  • Matching activity

HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE RESPIRATORY WORKSHEETS

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, human body, human body crafts, life science, respiratory, science

10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

May 16, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re learning some fun carbon dioxide facts for kids. Also, look at my post 4 Weeks Free Physical Science Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas.

And of course the best way to learn facts about a gas which could possibly be a boring topic is through a soda geyser reaction. That eruption is sure to bring life to your science today.

So, we’re learning some facts about carbon dioxide and doing a diet coke and mentos hands-on science experiment.

10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

We’ve all seen those cool eruptions on YouTube but we’re learning about the science behind it.

Too, it’s a fun way to learn about gas pressure and physical reactions.

Also, this experiment can be expanded to try soda with sugar. Does the diet soda work better or worse than the sugar soda? Why? Try the soda cold and try it warm. Then try other candies.

Measure the geyser (with safety goggles on please) and stand back or have a soda shower if you want to.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS ABOUT PHYSICAL SCIENCE

We prefer living books when we can find them.

Then I add reference books.

10 Books About Physical Science

Physical science varies in topic. It can cover states of matter, forces and motion like push and pull, forms of energy like simple circuits, light and sound to earth and space.

What Is the World Made Of?: All About Solids, Liquids, and Gases

Can you make an ice cube disappear? Put it on a hot sidewalk. It melts into water and then vanishes! The ice cube changes from solid to liquid to gas. This Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out picture book is a fascinating exploration of the three states of matter. This clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom, uses simple, fun diagrams to explain the difference between solids, liquids, and gases. This book also includes a find out more section with experiments designed to encourage further exploration and introduce record keeping.

Matter: Physical Science for Kids

In Matter: Physical Science for Kids, kids ages 5 to 8 explore the definition of matter and the different states of matter, plus the stuff in our world that isn’t matter, such as sound and light! In this nonfiction picture book, children are introduced to physical science through detailed illustrations paired with a compelling narrative that uses fun language to convey familiar examples of real-world science connections. By recognizing the basic physics concept of matter and identifying the different ways matter appears in real life, kids develop a fundamental understanding of physical science and are impressed with the idea that science is a constant part of our lives and not limited to classrooms and
laboratories

The Disappearing Spoon: And Other True Tales of Madness, Love, and the History of the World from the Periodic Table of the Elements

Why did Gandhi hate iodine (I, 53)? How did radium (Ra, 88) nearly ruin Marie Curie's reputation? And why is gallium (Ga, 31) the go-to element for laboratory pranksters?The Periodic Table is a crowning scientific achievement, but it's also a treasure trove of adventure, betrayal, and obsession. These fascinating tales follow every element on the table as they play out their parts in human history, and in the lives of the (frequently) mad scientists who discovered them. The Disappearing Spoon masterfully fuses science with the classic lore of invention, investigation, and discovery.

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

Michael Faraday: Father of Electronics

Charles Ludwig retells Michael Faraday’s remarkable life story in fictionalized form. Here is the father of the electric motor, the dynamo, the transformer, the generator. Few persons are aware of the brilliant man’s deep Christian convictions and his determination to live by the Sermon on the Mount. For ages 12 to 15.

Junior Science Book of Electricity

Book about electricity for children.

Energy Makes Things Happen

Did you know that energy comes from the food you eat? From the sun and wind? From fuel and heat? You get energy every time you eat. You transfer energy to other things every time you play baseball.

Waves: Principles of Light, Electricity and Magnetism (The Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a prism turns ordinary sunlight into a rainbow? Isaac Newton knew why. How can a magnet be used to generate electricity? Michael Faraday could have told you. Can you explain how a toaster toasts bread? In this book, author Paul Fleisher answers these and many more questions as he looks at the laws that describe how waves behave. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of light, electricity and magnetism in a fun, exciting way.

Liquids and Gases: Principles of Fluid Mechanics (Secrets of the Universe)

Have you ever wondered why a 10-tonne boat floats but a tiny pebble sinks? Archimedes knew why. How does a basketball or tennis ball bounce? Robert Boyle could have described how! Can you explain why a hot-air balloon rises but a balloon you blow up drops to the ground? To answer these questions and many more, author Paul Fleisher explains the laws that define how and why liquids and gases behave the way they do. Through simple experiments, detailed illustrations and concepts that are easy to understand, readers are introduced to the basic principles of fluid mechanics in a fun, exciting way.

Marbles,Roller Skates,Doorknob

Explains the concepts of simple and complex machines and mechanical advantage, and describes how wheels, including gears and ball bearings, work

Additionally, look at more hands-on activities about physical science.

HANDS-ON PHYSICAL SCIENCE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • How To Do An Easy Pencil Electrolysis Activity On Electricity
  • Sir Isaac Newton’s First Law Of Motion Simple Experiment
  • Easy Atom Model Project: How To Create A Fun Lego Version
  • How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity
  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • EASY Hands-on Earth Science: Fun Water Testing Kit
  • Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  • 8 Earth Day Facts | How to Make a Recycled Robot
  • Dive Into STEM Learning With An Exciting Jello Earthquake Experiment
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Space Science Experiment ~ Exploring one of Jupiter’s Moons
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Easy Study Of The Solar System Fun Interactive Worksheets
10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

Next, look at carbon dioxide facts for kids.

CARBON DIOXIDE FACTS FOR KIDS

  1. Carbon dioxide is a gas that’s all around us. It’s made of two kinds of atoms: carbon and oxygen.
  2. When one carbon atom joins with two oxygen atoms, you get CO₂ which is carbon dioxide.
  3. You make carbon dioxide every time you breathe out.
  4. Vehicles burn fuel and release carbon dioxide.
  5. Plants love carbon dioxide.
  6. Plants use carbon dioxide during photosynthesis to make their food, then in return they give us oxygen.
  7. Too, carbon dioxide keeps Earth warm by trapping eat from the sun.
  8. However, too much carbon dioxide can be a problem for Earth. For example, we can burn too much fuel. Too much CO₂ can melt ice, change weather, and hurt animals’ homes.
  9. CO₂ is the gas that makes soda fizzy.
  10. Carbon dioxide is a natural gas that helps keep the Earth balanced.

Finally, look at this fun diet soda and Mentos science experiment.

HOW TO DO A DIET SODA AND MENTOS SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

First, look at this easy list of supplies.

  • (6) Mint Mentos
  • 1 2L Diet Soda
  • Open outdoor area
  • Flat surface

Directions:

First, place the 2 L of soda on a flat surface outdoors.

10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

Remove the soda cap.

Quickly add 6 Mentos to the soda.

Move away from the soda bottle.

10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

Stand back and watch the reaction!

Why does this happen?

Soda is carbonated, containing dissolved carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas under pressure.

10 Carbon Dioxide Facts For Kids | Amazing Diet Coke & Mentos Experiment

Some gas escapes when you open a bottle, but most stays dissolved in the liquid.

This experiment uses Mentos candies because they have a rough, porous surface at the microscopic level.

This texture provides tiny spots where the CO₂ can gather and form bubbles very rapidly.

So when Mentos are dropped into soda, two things happen.

1) CO₂ gas rapidly escapes from the liquid.

2)This causes a huge number of bubbles to form all at once.

The eruption happens when the bubbles rise quickly and carry soda with them, creating an explosive geyser of foam. The narrow neck of the soda bottle helps direct the pressure upward.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: carbon dioxide, diet coke, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, physical science, science

When Were Mayans Alive | The Vanishing Mayan Civilization Free Printable

May 15, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When were Mayans alive and why did the ancient civilization Mayan disappear? This is what we’re studying today. Also, look at my page Meso-America Free Unit Study and Lapbook.

And I have a 7-page free printable The Vanishing Mayan Civilization, a historical mystery.

The ancient Mayan civilization was very advanced. They built pyramids, had one of the most accurate calendars in the world and developed their own writing system.

When Were Mayans Alive | The Vanishing Mayan Civilization Free Printable

The Mayan lived deep in the jungle of Central America. And they built massive cities like Tikal, Copán, and Palenque.

Their society was organized into powerful city-states, each ruled by kings

But there was a sudden decline. Just what caused it?

BOOKS ABOUT MESO-AMERICA

First, look at some of these books to include with your study of the Mayan.

I try to include living books when you can.

5 Resources for Learning about Meso-America, the Aztec, Inca, and Maya

Add some of these books to your unit study about Meso-America.

DKfindout! Maya, Incas, and Aztecs

This fun, fact-filled book for kids ages 6–9 is the ultimate guide to three great civilizations of the American continents—the Maya, Incas, and Aztecs. Entertaining and educating young readers through a combination of close-up images, quirky trivia facts, quiz questions, and fascinating tidbits,
it’s the perfect book for any kid who can’t get enough of ancient history.

DK Eyewitness Books: Aztec, Inca & Maya: Discover the World of the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayas―

Journey back in time to experience the rise and fall of the Aztecs, as well as other Mesoamerican peoples, including the Incas and Mayas. You’ll explore their vast empires and lost worlds in spectacular detail, and meet their gods and goddesses and marvel at their precious stones. Join them farming and hunting, team up for sports and games, taste the food and drink, and dance at their celebrations. Then, after centuries of growth and progress, discover how the Spanish conquest
brought these civilizations crashing to their knees.

Llamas and the Andes: A nonfiction companion to Magic Tree House #34: Late Lunch with Llamas

Track the facts about llamas and other animals of the Andes in this nonfiction companion to the bestselling Magic Tree House series!When Jack and Annie came back from their adventure in Magic Tree House #34: Late Lunch with Llamas, they had lots of questions. Why do people raise llamas? What are llamas' closest relatives? How tall are the Andes mountains? What other animals live there? Find out the answers to these questions and more as Jack and Annie track the facts about llamas and the Andes.

Secret of the Andes (Puffin Newberry Library)

An Incan boy who tends llamas in a hidden valley in Peru learns the traditions and secrets of his ancestors. 

Incans Aztecs Mayans

Fascinating account of three major civilizations that existed in the New World before Europeans arrived. How did they live? What did they achieve? What happened to them? Seeks to interpret history from a biblical perspective.

Also, look at some of these activities to pair with our research on when were Mayans alive and how they lived.

HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES ABOUT THE ANCIENT MAYAN CIVILIZATION

  • Geronimo Stilton Back in Time Second Journey Through Time and Fun Mayan Mask
  • Geronimo Stilton Adventure The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time (Mayan LEGO Temple of Kukulcan Craft)
  • Ancient Maya Unit Study + {Notebooking Pages printable}
When Were Mayans Alive | The Vanishing Mayan Civilization Free Printable

However, around 900 CE, many of the major Maya cities in the southern lowlands were abandoned.

WHEN WERE MAYANS ALIVE

Actually, the Mayan civilization lasted thousand of years.

And today millions of Maya still are alive in countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador.

The Mayan changed and adapted and the last Mayan kingdom fell in 1697.

And they suddenly declined and abandoned their cities. Although we never knew why.

You’ll love these free printables to go with your study of the ancient Mayan civilization.

HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE FREE HISTORICAL DETECTIVE – THE VANISHING MAYAN CIVILIZATION

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

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