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Welcome

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

August 17, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m sharing an incredible slime recipe to add to your fun day when learning about insects. Also, look at my page Free Kids Insect Unit Study for more ideas.

It sounds kinda icky, but it’s actually super interesting.

Let’s dive into the sticky, squishy world of insect slime and discover why it’s one of nature’s coolest tricks.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Insect slime, or as scientists call it, “exudate,” is a gooey substance that some insects produce.

It’s not just any slime.

It is made of special proteins and other natural compounds that help insects in various ways.

However, regular slime can stretch, squish, and even bounce!

The magic of slime lies in its unique texture and the way it changes under different pressures.

It’s like a science experiment and a toy all rolled into one!

3 Ways Insects Use Their Incredible Slime

1. Hunting

Did you know that some insects use slime to catch their prey?

The sticky goo can trap small insects or other tiny creatures, making it easier for the slime-producing insect to feast.

2. Defense Mechanism

Many insects use slime to protect themselves from predators.

For example, some caterpillars can shoot out a sticky slime when they feel threatened. This goo can deter predators or even make them slip away!

3. Building and Home Making

Some insects use slime to build their homes.

Silk-spinning spiders, for instance, create intricate webs out of a slimy substance that hardens into strong silk threads.

Similarly, certain beetles use slime to line their burrows, making them smoother and more comfortable.

Also, look at some of these fun books to your learning day.

Insect Books for Kids

11 Insect & Bug Books for Kids Who Love to Be Read To and Read

Add one or two of these books to your home library about insects. I love living books but love to add reference books to our day when I find them.

Image for When Insects are Babies

When Insects are Babies

Describes briefly the short infancy of such common insects as the grasshopper, praying mantis, cicada, earwig, and twelve others.

Image for We Like Bugs

We Like Bugs

This illustrated book for children asks the Have you ever seen a doodlebug? A dragon fly? A leafhopper? Find out all about bugs in this book.

Image for Fabre's Book of Insects

Fabre's Book of Insects

Hailed by Darwin as "The Homer of Insects," famed French entomologist Jean Henri Fabre (1823–1915) devoted hours of rapt attention to insects while they hunted, built nests, and fed their families. Working in Provence, in barren, sun-scorched fields inhabited by countless wasps and bees, he observed their intricate and fascinating world, recounting their activities in simple, beautifully written essays.This volume, based on translations of Fabre's Souvenirs Entomologiques, blends folklore and mythology with factual explanation. Fabre's absorbing account of the scarab beetle's existence, for example, begins with the ancient Egyptians' symbolic view of this busy creature, eventually leading to a careful discussion of its characteristic method of rolling a carefully sculpted ball of food to its den. Elsewhere, he discusses with infectious enthusiasm the physiologic secrets behind the luminosity of fireflies, the musical talents of the locust, the comfortable home of the field cricket, and the cannibalism of the pious-looking praying mantis, among other topics.These charmingly related stories of insect life are a rare combination of scientific study and literary classic that will delight entomologists, naturalists, and nature lovers alike.

Image for Children of Summer: Henri Fabre's Insects

Children of Summer: Henri Fabre's Insects

Henri Fabre (1823-1915) was a famous explorer yet he seldom left his own backyard. He spent his whole life discovering the secrets of the insect world. His home and its surroundings served as his laboratory, and his lab assistants were his wife and children. The entire family shared his passion for insects, especially his youngest son, Paul. Follow Paul as he assists his famous father uncover the secrets of his "children of summer"-insects. You'll meet the undertaker beetle that buries dead animals; the acorn elephant beetle, whose snout is so long that it must hold it straight out to keep from tripping over it; caterpillars that spin tents and roadways of silk; red ants that kidnap black ant babies and raise them as slaves; dancing scorpions; dung beetles that get their nourishment from animal droppings; male peacock moths that pay homage to their princess but don't eat a single meal as adults; and many other unusual creatures. On the way, you'll get to know a fascinating scientist widely regarded as the father of modern entomology. Through texts drawn from the beautiful written records that Fabre kept of everything he did and saw, and exquisite illustrations done in close, scientific detail, this enchanting book reaches far beyond the boundaries of its subject to engage even those who didn't know they were interested in bugs.

Image for Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders

Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders

Acclaimed naturalist and illustrator Jim Arnosky brings out the beauty—and the “wow!” and the “yuck!” factors—of hundreds of insects and spiders. Eight spectacular gatefolds show moths and mosquitoes, butterflies and beetles, spiders and silverfish life-size, up close, and personal!

Image for Insects Do the Strangest Things (Step-Up Books)

Insects Do the Strangest Things (Step-Up Books)

Describes insects that have peculiar and strange characteristics, such as the camouflage of the walking stick, and the driver ants that prefer people to picnics.

Image for Insect Life

Insect Life

Be immersed in the fascinating world of insects as you're taken on a journey observing and learning about the world around you.

This volume teaches about what makes an insect, the parts of a caterpillar, moths, butterflies, beetles, wasps, bees, flies, crickets, grasshoppers and more!

Image for The Big Book of Bugs (The Big Book Series)

The Big Book of Bugs (The Big Book Series)

From moths and beetles to worms and spiders, the world is crawling with fascinating bugs. The Big Book of Bugs is the first fact-filled book for children to explore the vast array of creepy-crawlies that share our Earth.

In the first pages, children learn that bugs live nearly everywhere on the planet and gain tips on how to become a young bug spotter. As the book continues, the scenic compositions on each page are dedicated to key groups of bugs, including beetles, moths, butterflies, bees, snails, crickets, grasshoppers, worms, and spiders. Some spreads approach the world of bugs thematically, such as bugs that come out at night, baby bugs, and life cycles, how bugs hide and show off, and how some bugs love to live in your home. The conversational, funny text is also full of facts that will astonish children and adults, and accompanied by Yuval Zommer’s colorful illustrations. Illustrated in color throughout.

Image for Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies: Take-Along Guide (Take Along Guides)

Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies: Take-Along Guide (Take Along Guides)

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

Image for The Beetle (Dimensional Nature Portfolio Series)

The Beetle (Dimensional Nature Portfolio Series)

Features the beetle in huge, three-dimensional form. The book consists of an enormous center pop-up and two seven-page books, one bound into each cover, which are full of additional pop-ups, anatomical cutaways and photographs taken through electron microscopes.

Image for The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science

In this beautiful nonfiction biography, a Robert F. Sibert Medal winner, the Newbery Honor–winning author Joyce Sidman introduces readers to one of the first female entomologists and a woman who flouted convention in the pursuit of knowledge and her passion for insects.

One of the first naturalists to observe live insects directly, Maria Sibylla Merian was also one of the first to document the metamorphosis of the butterfly. 

Richly illustrated throughout with full-color original paintings by Merian herself, The Grew Who Drew Butterflies will enthrall young scientists.

Bugs, of all kinds, were considered to be “born of mud” and to be “beasts of the devil.” Why would anyone, let alone a girl, want to study and observe them? The Girl Who Drew Butterflies answers this question.

Next, look at some of these other insect activities.

  • 4 Cicada Insect Fun Facts For Kids | How to Make A Cicada Clothespin Craft
  • How to Make a Fun Ladybug Watercolor Labeled Picture
  • Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects
  • 8 Facts About Moths and a Fun Nature Elephant Hawk Moth Craft
  • Fun and Easy Hands-on Life Cycle Butterfly Activity for Kids
  • Blue Morpho Butterfly Adaptations In The Tropical Rainforest and Fun Symmetry Craft
  • Fascinating and Fun Honey Bees Unit Study and Lapbook for Kids
Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Additionally, look at these other slime activities.

More Incredible Slime Activities

  • How to Make Fluffy Lemonade Summer Slime With Kids
  • The Colorful Blue Jays Winter Food | Make Fun Seed Slime
  • How to Make Gingerbread Slime For Play | 9 Slime Craft Ideas
  • How to Make Fun Watermelon Seed Slime For Summer Learning
  • Winter Craft Ideas for Kids Animals in Winter Fun Snow Slime
Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Finally, look at how to make insect slime.

How to Make Insect Slime With Kids

Supplies:

  • 1 (6oz.)  bottle of green glitter glue
  • ½ tbsp. Baking soda
  • 1 tbsp. Contact solution
  • Insect toys
  • Mixing bowl
  • Mixing spoon
  • Plastic mat
Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Directions:

First, pour the glue into the mixing bowl.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Add the baking soda and stir well until combined.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Pour in the contact solution and stir until slime becomes stretchy.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

 Note: Your slime will feel sticky at first and it will seem like there’s too much contact solution.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

However, keep kneading the slime and it will get to the desired consistency!

I did not have to add any extra solution to this recipe.

Once the slime is at the desired consistency, it’s ready!

Use a plastic mat for play time.

Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo

Add the insect toys to the slime. Store the slime in an airtight container or a jar.

Insect slime is an amazing part of nature that helps insects in many cool ways.

So next time you see a bug, remember that its slimy tricks are part of what makes it so awesome!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, insects, slime

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

August 16, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You may have seen a flat handprint letter V for volcano. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool Preschool for more letter activities. And look at my page Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano.

But have you ever seen a standing model one? I can’t wait to show you how to make your own today.

When teaching letters to younger children, incorporating fun hands-on activities goes a long way in helping them remember what they have learned.

This one is inexpensive and easier than you might think.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

You can make a handprint volcano model to help your child identify the different parts of the volcano.

Also, use it as an art project and for a neat keepsake.

But don’t stop there with just one activity.

Check out my volcano facts and activity ideas to create a simple study for your child while they learn about V with a science theme.

There are volcanoes all over the world, and they come in all different shapes and sizes.

Some volcanoes are tall and pointy, while others are short and wide.

Some volcanoes are covered in snow and ice, while others are surrounded by lush forests.

Kids love to learn about the powerful volcanoes and there is so much to learn about them, no matter what they look like, volcanoes are amazing natural wonders. 

Books for Kids About Volcanoes

First, look at some of these volcano books.

12 Volcano Books & Resources

Add one or two of these books to learn about volcanoes and add some hands-on ideas to learn about the types of volcanoes.

Image for Volcanoes

Volcanoes

Did you know there are four main types of volcanoes? Or that volcanoes are classified as active, dormant, or extinct? The Devil’s Tower in Wyoming is an extinct volcano. It’s about 40.5 million years old!

Image for Birth Of an Island

Birth Of an Island

Simple explanation of how an island is formed. B/ W sketch illustrations.

Image for R&R Games The Table is Lava Family Game

R&R Games The Table is Lava Family Game

As Dawn breaks, mount kahlualualuau is spewing its fiery lava down onto meepleville. The natives are frantically trying to escape the rivers of lava and remain on safe ground. Whoever’s tribe survives the eruption with the most Meeples shall be the winner!

Image for Volcano: Eruption and Healing of Mt. St Helen's

Volcano: Eruption and Healing of Mt. St Helen's

In this extraordinary photographic essay, Patricia Lauber details the Mount St. Helens eruption and the years following in Volcano: Eruption and Healing of Mt. St. Helen's.Through this clear accurate account, readers of all ages will share the awe of the scientists who witnessed both the power of the volcano and the resiliency of life.

Image for The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia

The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia

Science is vital for every inhabitant of today’s world, and being scientifically informed and literate is a crucial part of any child’s education. Science can seem daunting –- especially as scientific knowledge advances so quickly –- and this volume is the perfect purchase for any family. It will bear repeated use by all the family from 10+ through the teenage years.

Image for All About Volcanoes (A True Book: Natural Disasters) (A True Book (Relaunch))

All About Volcanoes (A True Book: Natural Disasters) (A True Book (Relaunch))

Conditions on Earth are becoming more and more extreme and kids want to learn about it!

Is it true that, at any given time, about 20 volcanoes are erupting somewhere on Earth? Yes! Sometimes volcanoes erupt with a big, dangerous bang. Other times they spit out lava so slowly that you could walk faster than it flows.

Image for How to Dig a Hole to the Other Side of the World

How to Dig a Hole to the Other Side of the World

‘[An] irresistible account of a child’s imaginary 8,000-mile journey through the earth to discover what’s inside. Facts about the composition of the earth are conveyed painlessly and memorably.’ —SLJ. ‘An exciting adventure. . . . Illustrations [by Caldecott Medal winner Marc Simont] explode with color and action.’ —CS.

Image for Volcanoes! (National Geographic Readers)

Volcanoes! (National Geographic Readers)

The cool story of volcanoes will intrigue kids and adults alike. Hot melted rock from the middle of our planet forces its way up through cracks in the Earth’s crusts, exploding violently and sometimes unexpectedly in volcanic fury that can terrorize populations for months, even years.

Image for National Geographic Readers: Erupt! 100 Fun Facts About Volcanoes (L3)

National Geographic Readers: Erupt! 100 Fun Facts About Volcanoes (L3)

Kids will burst with excitement as they learn all about the science and wonder of volcanoes in this new National Geographic Kids Reader.

Image for NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Ultimate Volcano Kit – Erupting Volcano Science

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Ultimate Volcano Kit – Erupting Volcano Science

UNFORGETTABLE SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS – This is a great hands-on experiment kit for any science fair; the updated mold and instructions make it easy to assemble a sturdy volcano form and realistic paint colors give the volcano a lifelike look.

Image for Natural and Earth Science Educational Flash Card

Natural and Earth Science Educational Flash Card

This set of 48 cards features a colorful illustration on one side and informational facts on the other side.

Image for The Magic School Bus: Blasting off with Erupting Volcanoes

The Magic School Bus: Blasting off with Erupting Volcanoes

MIX YOUR OWN LAVA: Use the included mixture to form your own “lava” and experiment with explosions by making your own volcano erupt!

Volcano Facts

  • Volcanoes are like big mountains, but they’re special because they have a secret inside. Deep down, volcanoes are filled with hot, melted rock called magma.
  • Sometimes, the magma gets too hot and it has to find a way to escape. It bursts out of the top of the volcano and flows down the sides, just like when you squeeze toothpaste out of a tube and it has to come out and flow over.
  • When magma comes out of a volcano, it’s called lava. Lava is really hot, so it can be dangerous. It can burn things and even destroy houses. But volcanoes can also be beautiful. When lava flows out at night, it can look just like a river of fire.
  • Volcanoes can also make loud noises and sometimes they even shake the ground. That’s because when magma comes out of the volcano, it can create a lot of pressure. The pressure can cause the ground to shake and make a loud boom.
How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Volcanoes are a part of nature, and they’re not always dangerous.

In fact, they can even be helpful. The lava from volcanoes can make new land, and it also helps to fertilize the soil.

Letter V For Volcano Activities

  • Practice pre-writing skills by giving your child a couple of craft sticks and teaching them to form it into the letter ‘V’.
How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Of course reading a great science book about Volcanoes like Gail Gibbons’ books is a wonderful activity for developing language skills, listening skills, and learning science facts

Take some of the ideas from my Celebrate National Vinegar Day With A Hands-on Study of Volcanoes and create your own mini unit perfect for a younger child.

Recreate this Volcano Blow Art page at home for a unique project that turns out different every time you do it

Watch Volcanoes for Kids| How Volcanoes Work as an entertaining way to teach volcano facts.

Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

We are going to create a volcano handprint craft that is out of the ordinary and will really capture your child’s imagination.

 Once they make it, they can continue to enjoy it by using it alongside their dinosaur toys, as a display on the shelf, or use it to create a larger scene from craft foam.

You will need:

  • Craft foam in assorted colors
  • Craft paint- red, yellow, and/or orange
  • Hot glue gun/glue sticks
  • Little willing hands
How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

First, twist brown craft foam into a funnel shape.

It needs to be narrow on one end and wide at the other, overlapping it about ¼”

Run hot glue down the inside seam and hold in place until it hardens.

Be sure you leave the opening at the top about 1 ½” in diameter so your ‘lava’ will fit inside.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Use scissors to trim the top and bottom off to make it straighter.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Trace a small hand onto at least two colors of craft foam, like red and orange.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Cut the handprints out.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Glue the bottom of the hands inside the volcano so it looks like lava spewing out the top.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Secure the base of the volcano on a square of green craft foam to help it stay up, use hot glue and hold it in place until set.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

To really give it a flowing colorful effect and some texture you can also drip some paint down the volcano as well to create lava flow rather than just explosion.

How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: alphabet, earth science, handprint, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, kindergarten, letter sounds, phonics, volcano

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

August 15, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This ice for kids frozen nature sensory play makes a great activity to keep toddlers to preschoolers learning. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool Preschool for more learning and playing ideas.

This is an easy nature sensory play activity to do at home.

With just a few items and thinking ahead (freeze water) your child will have as much fun as the ice lasts.

And if you have a theme such as nature, transportation, or even animals with each of your trays, you can teach your preschooler right along with play.

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

This ice for kids activity provides children with a unique way to explore different textures and temperatures.

This type of play can enhance their fine motor skills as they manipulate small objects.

Also, it can improve your child’s cognitive development by encouraging curiosity and experimentation.

Additionally, it can foster a sense of wonder and connection to the natural world.

First, grab some of these nature books.

Even non-readers can appreciate the quality of well-written literature as you read aloud.

Nature Books for Kids

In addition, I try to pick quality literature for our home library.

For example, I choose living books first then add science or reference books to our collection.

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.

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

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.

Image for Handbook of Nature Study

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.

Image for The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

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.

Image for Botanicum

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.

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

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.

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

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, look at more frozen nature sensory play.

More Ice for Kids Nature Sensory Activities

  • Freezing Nature’s Beauty – Take advantage of the cold and make frozen sun catchers
  • Outdoor Play Idea for a Cold Day: Freezing Bubbles
  • Frozen Flowers Sensory Ice Play
Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

In addition, look at these ideas for sensory play.

More Sensory Play Ideas for Homeschooled Kids

  • Discover The Magic Of Nocturnal Creatures | Nocturnal Animal Sensory Bin
  • How to Make a Watermelon Sensory Bin for Play and Learning
  • How to Make Fluffy Lemonade Summer Slime With Kids
  • How to Make Hot Cocoa Cloud Dough | 8 Hot Cocoa Crafts for Preschoolers
  • How to Make Gingerbread Slime For Play | 9 Slime Craft Ideas
  • 9 Hands on Weather Activities for Kids and Awesome Weather Sensory Tray
  • Fun Corn Life Cycle Preschool Sensory Bin and Printable Lifecycle Foldout
  • Make Way For Ducklings Fun Duck Pond Playdough Invitation to Play
  • 9 Fun Facts about Jello and Playdough Activity
Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

Finally, look how easy and fun this frozen nature sensory play activity is.

How to Make A Frozen Nature Sensory Play Activity

Here is what you need:

  • Silicone mold
  • Flowers, leaves, pinecones, etc. whatever nature items you have in your yard or find at the park
  • Water
  • Add a magnifying glass, spoons and see what affect salt has on the ice.

And the prep couldn’t be any easier.

Add the nature items into your mold.

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

Fill with water.

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

Freeze overnight.

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

Remove from mold and enjoy!  

Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: frozen, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool preschool, ice, nature, nature study, play, preschool, sensory

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

August 14, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m sharing 5 plastic bottle craft ideas. Also, look at my page Easy Seeds and Gardening Unit Study for Kids (Middle – Upper Elementary) for more ideas.

Too, we’re creating these adorable 2-liter plastic bottle mini greenhouses.

By turning plastic bottles into greenhouses, you’re not only doing science but teaching about upcycling.

In addition, I have a bit of history of greenhouses, and you can have a mini unit study for the day.

Mini greenhouses are a game-changer for any gardener, no matter your skill level!

So this makes for a great hands-on learning project for multiple ages.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

A greenhouse is basically an enclosed space that is heated and lit by the sun.

Now if you were to expand this project into an actual structure, you will want to cover other topics.

Look at these questions and ideas to think about and plan.

  • what size project is right for your family
  • how many children will be using the space
  • who will be maintaining the space and how much time do you have
  • what do you want to grow. Do you want to grow just vegetables, plants, or explore hydroponics?

Also, for any type of greenhouse, the fun part is checking the progress each day.

This can be expanded into lessons.

Children can take light, wind, and temperature measurements and track the sun at different times of the day.

Additionally, learn about the history of greenhouses.

History of Greenhouses

Did you know that greenhouses are also called glass houses?

Some of the earliest accounts of using structures to grow plants date back to ancient Rome, around 30 A.D.

Cucumber and squash were grown for the Emperor Tiberius.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

In addition, Andrew Faneuil an affluent merchant from Boston, built the first known greenhouse in America in 1737.

Look at this site Dave’s Garden for a short history lesson about greenhouses.

Gardening Books for Kids

Too, look at some of the fun living books about gardening to add to your fun craft today.

I prefer living books when I can find them, then I add reference books too.

11 Gardening With Kids Books & Fun Resources

As a true bibliophile no unit study would be complete without a strong list of books to support a topic. Here is a great list for everyone in the family.

Image for Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

Learn the difference between a farrow and a barrow, and what distinguishes a weanling from a yearling. Country and city mice alike will delight in Julia Rothman’s charming illustrated guide to the curious parts and pieces of rural living. Dissecting everything from the shapes of squash varieties to how a barn is constructed and what makes up a beehive to crop rotation patterns, Rothman gives a richly entertaining tour of the quirky details of country life. 

Image for The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art

The Garden Classroom: Hands-On Activities in Math, Science, Literacy, and Art

Packed with garden-based activities that promote science, math, reading, writing, imaginative play, and arts and crafts, The Garden Classroom offers a whole year of outdoor play and learning ideas—however big or small your garden.

Image for Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt:

Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt:

Explore the secret realm beneath the dirt that brings the world of nature to life: Follow a young girl and her grandmother on a journey through the year planning, planting, and harvesting their garden—and learn about what's happening in the dirt to help make it all happen.Up in the garden, the world is full of green—leaves and sprouts, growing vegetables, ripening fruit. But down in the dirt exists a busy world—earthworms dig, snakes hunt, skunks burrow—populated by all the creatures that make a garden their home

Image for Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden

Gardening Lab for Kids: 52 Fun Experiments to Learn, Grow, Harvest, Make, Play, and Enjoy Your Garden

A refreshing source of ideas to help your children learn to grow their own patch of earth, Gardening Lab for Kids encourages children to get outside and enjoy nature. This fun and creative book features 52 plant-related activities set into weekly lessons, beginning with learning to read maps to find your heat zone, moving through seeds, soil, composting, and then creating garden art and appreciating your natural surroundings.

Image for The Ultimate Guide to Gardening: Grow Your Own Indoor, Vegetable, Fairy, and Other Great Gardens

The Ultimate Guide to Gardening: Grow Your Own Indoor, Vegetable, Fairy, and Other Great Gardens

Whether inside or outside, decorative or edible, this book is full of gardening projects large and small. Easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions are accompanied by photographs that guide the aspiring gardening through planting all kinds of gardens.

Image for Kids Gardening Set

Kids Gardening Set

MONTESSORI FOR TODDLERS: Our gardening tool set encourages kids to play outside & learn about plants, nature & sustainability. Perfect for the yard and sand box.

OUTDOOR LEARNING ACTIVITIES: Our Kids Garden Set is great for Occupational Therapy & Developing Fine Motor Skills. Suitable for Boys and girls.

Image for Do-It-Yourself Garden Research Handbook - The Thinking Tree: How to Design, Plant, & Care for Your Own Garden! Homeschooling Science, Nature & Home Economics

Do-It-Yourself Garden Research Handbook - The Thinking Tree: How to Design, Plant, & Care for Your Own Garden! Homeschooling Science, Nature & Home Economics

A Gardening Research Workbook & Planning Guide for Teens, Kids and Families! Perfect for Homeschooling Science, Nature Study, Botany and Home Economics!

Designed for teens, but perfect for Ages 9+ (Younger students will need some extra help).

Image for Raised Garden Bed Wood Planter Boxes Outdoor for Kids with Legs

Raised Garden Bed Wood Planter Boxes Outdoor for Kids with Legs

{Raised Garden Bed for Kids} We designed the children raised garden bed carefully, so that your children can feel the happiness of plant growth and the magic of natural life. Our raised garden bed deep enough to provide your plants and vegetables with ample room to breathe and grow healthy.

Image for From Seed to Plant

From Seed to Plant

Flowers, trees, fruits—plants are all around us, but where do they come from?  With simple language and bright illustrations, non-fiction master Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the processes of pollination, seed formation, and germination.  Important vocabulary is reinforced with accessible explanation and colorful, clear diagrams showing the parts of plants, the wide variety of seeds, and how they grow.  The book includes instructions for a seed-growing project, and a page of interesting facts about plants, seeds, and flowers.   A nonfiction classic, and a perfect companion for early science lessons and curious young gardeners.

Image for National Geographic Readers: Seed to Plant

National Geographic Readers: Seed to Plant

Kids see plants, flowers, and trees around them every day. In this lively and educational reader, they'll learn how those plants grow. Kids will take this magical journey from seed pollination to plant growth, learning about what plants need to thrive and grow with the same careful text, brilliant photographs, and the fun approach National Geographic Readers are known for.

Image for Oh Say Can You Seed? All About Flowering Plants

Oh Say Can You Seed? All About Flowering Plants

An easy and fun introduction to plant biology! With the able assistance of Thing 1 and Thing 2 - the Cat in the Hat explores the world of plants. Kids will learn about the various parts of plants, seeds, and flowers; basic photosynthesis and pollination; and seed dispersal.

Additionally, look at these other 5 plastic bottle craft ideas.

5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

  1. Use a plastic bottle to make this cool submarine on my post Renaissance Inventors: How To Make A Fascinating Da Vinci Submarine Craft.
  2. How To Make A Plastic Bottle Faux Succulents Terrarium
  3. Take a 2 or 3 liter plastic bottle and make this Ship Craft Ideas & Ship Terminology | Fun Ship in A Bottle Craft for Kids.
  4. DIY Bottle Organizers
  5. Fairy House Night Lights

More Gardening Ideas | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Similarly, look at more gardening ideas.

  • Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver (Free Printable About Compost
  • Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity
  • How to Plan And Start an Easy Gardening Unit Study for Kids
  • How to Make a Fun Kids Root Viewer
  • How to Easily Make Fun Seed Tape With Kids
  • 7 Science Garden Ideas and Make a Pizza Container Garden
  • How to Make Easy Herb and Olive Oil Garden Bread With Kids
  • 8 Peter Rabbit Garden Ideas | How To Make A Preschool Garden Box

Finally, look at these 2-liter bottle mini greenhouses to add to the other 5 plastic bottle craft ideas.

How to Make 2-Liter Bottle Mini Greenhouses

First, here is what you need:

  • empty and clean 2-liter bottles
  • x-acto knife
  • plastic wrap
  • rubber band
  • soil
  • seeds (I used sunflower for this project)
  • spray bottle filled with water
  • optional: plastic tray
How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

First, using the x-acto knife, cut the middle part of the 2-liter bottle out and discard.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

On the bottom of the bottle, cut a few drain holes using the knife.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

You’ll want the top portion of the bottle to fit just enough into the bottom portion to create the greenhouse.

Fill the bottom portion of the bottle with soil.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Poke 1-3 holes into the soil for the seeds.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Place a seed into each hole.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Use the spray bottle to moisten the soil enough with water.

Cover the top portion of the bottle with a piece of plastic wrap and secure with a rubber band.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Place the lid on top of the bottom portion of the greenhouse.

Set the mini greenhouses near a windowsill that gets good sunshine.

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Use a tray underneath if desired. Observe over a few days.

After a few days, you should see the seeds sprouting.

If you do not see any seeds sprouting, you can try planting another until you get a sprout.

 Seeds not sprouting could be from just bad seeds, diseased seeds, etc.

Once plants reach a certain height, you can transfer to a bigger container or garden outside and watch them grow!

How To Make Plastic Bottle Little Greenhouses | 5 Plastic Bottle Craft Ideas

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: garden, gardening, greenhouses, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, plants, plastic bottle, science

2025 to 2029 Colorful Printable List Of Major Holidays (5 Years One Page)

August 13, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have the 2025 to 2029 colorful printable list of major holidays on 1 convenient page for your planner. Also, look at all my beautiful forms on my pages Homeschool Planner.

And check out my page Best and Unique 7 Step Curriculum Planner for a step by step guide to using my forms and creating your unique planner.

The list of major holidays on one page form is in two color choices.

2025 to 2029 Colorful Printable List Of Major Holidays (5 Years One Page)

Download and print both colors or one.

Typically, I place the forms near the front and back of my planner for a quick reference.

The form I have today is for homeschool planning.

It has major U.S. holidays on one page for easy reference. 

It is a nifty hard-working tool because I use it for both short-term and long-term planning.

These forms are used to help you plan not just your homeschool year, but vacations and days off in your school year.

By looking this far ahead, it helps me to decide when I want to take a family vacation.

And I use it with my homeschool planning calendar.

Next, look at more of my homeschool planner forms.

More Homeschool Planner Forms

  • 2024-2025 Homeschool Planning Schedule (Sky Color) Beautiful Form
  • 2024-2025 Homeschool Planning Schedule (Seafoam Color) Beautiful Form
  • 2024 to 2025 (Aster Color) Two Page Monthly Calendar
  • 2024 to 2025 (Prim Color) Two Page Monthly Calendar
  • 2024-2025 Printable School Calendars on One Page
  • The Ultimate and Beautiful DIY Homeschool Unit Study Planner
  • A Unique Flexible and Beautiful Preschool Homeschool Planner. A planner which can be used for Prek to 1st grade entitled Early Learner Planner.
  • Grab the beautiful Dynamic Homeschool Colorful Planner.
2025 to 2029 Colorful Printable List Of Major Holidays (5 Years One Page)

Also, look at these pretties I love to add to my planner and a simple printer is best.

Don’t complicate this process.

15 Gorgeous Homeschool Planner Supplies

Whether you add a bit of eye candy or consider it essential supplies, you'll love some of these ideas.

Image for Poppin Zip Folios, Aqua

Poppin Zip Folios, Aqua

Set of 3 slide-tab reusable plastic envelopes

Image for Poppin Page Markers, Set of 8

Poppin Page Markers, Set of 8

Poppin Page Markers, Set of 8
Image for Retractable Gel Luxe Pens

Retractable Gel Luxe Pens

Love how these write.

Image for Bubble Shape Sticky Notes

Bubble Shape Sticky Notes

8 Bright Colors: Including blue, light blue, green, yellow, orange, rose red, pink and purple; colorful memo pads that look good and are hard to ignore.

Image for Light Soft Color Erasable Highlighter Pen

Light Soft Color Erasable Highlighter Pen

Highlighter Pen, 6 Color Set 
Image for 6-in-1 Multicolor Ballpoint Pen

6-in-1 Multicolor Ballpoint Pen

I love these because every color you need is available in one pen.

Image for Plastic Binder Dividers with Pockets

Plastic Binder Dividers with Pockets

You can add dividers to your planner by cutting off just a bit of it and it still can be coil bound, but let the office personnel where you take your planner to be bound to trim it for you.

Image for Eco-friendly Wood & Plastic Free Rainbow  Pencils

Eco-friendly Wood & Plastic Free Rainbow Pencils

RAINBOW PAPER PENCIL:The inner body of pencils is made of rainbow -like recycled papers.Premium #2 HB grade lead for smooth writing and drawing.

Image for Highlighter, Pastel Colors Chisel Tip Marker Pen

Highlighter, Pastel Colors Chisel Tip Marker Pen

USA Brand ZEYAR, AP Certified. BRIGHT COLORS: the assortment of Great bright Fluorescent or Macaron inks protect and emphasize your handwritten texts, No shadow on the next
page

Image for Bible Highlighters and Pens No Bleed

Bible Highlighters and Pens No Bleed

These work beautiful on your planners. Bible Safe Dry Highlighters: These no bleed highlighters are great for journaling and memorizing verses

Image for Glitter Washi

Glitter Washi

Package Include: you will receive 30 rolls of glitter washi tapes in 30 colors, each measuring about 2 meters/ 2.2 yards in length and 1 cm/ 0.4 inch in width, abundant in quantity, enough to satisfy your daily decorating and crafting needs

Image for BOSOBO Mouse Pad

BOSOBO Mouse Pad

► PERSONALIZED MOUSE PAD: Measure 7.9 x 7.9 x 0.1inch ( 200mm x 200mm x 3mm), small size but perfect size for work and game. Elegant geometric shape and exquisite illustration add personality to your office, perfect for all style desktop, office, home, computer, keyboard and mice.

Image for Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Mobile Printer

Canon PIXMA TR150 Wireless Mobile Printer

You don't need an expensive printer to print your homeschool planner. I've used this mobile printer for years.

Image for Eco Highlighter Pencils

Eco Highlighter Pencils

Eco Highlighter Pencils - Set of 5 Colors - Will Not Bleed or Dry Out - Includes Wooden Sharpener
Image for Semikolon Sticky Page Tab Markers

Semikolon Sticky Page Tab Markers

I've used these for years and love them.

How to Get the Free 2025 to 2029 List of Major Holidays on One Page

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 instantly.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

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

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Curriculum Planner Tagged With: curriculum planner, curriculum planner. homeschool., homeschool curriculum planner, homeschool planner, homeschool planning, planner, planning

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