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12 Gifts For Medieval History Buffs

December 10, 2023 | Leave a Comment
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I have 12 gifts for medieval history buffs. Also, look at my page 4 Week Free Middle Ages Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas and Gifts For Kids Who Are Wild About History.

Calling all medieval history buffs or those who have a friend or loved one with a deep love for all things medieval.

A medievalist is a specialist in medieval history and culture and has a passion for weaponry, social classes, castles, land, and everything medieval times encompass.

I included ideas for all ages and those who also love the fantasy aspect of the medieval period.

I’m sharing with you a world of 12 gifts inspired by castles, knights, and chivalry of the medieval era that they will cherish.

My handpicked list will transport you back in time.

And call to mind the captivating legends and tales of this extraordinary period.

Children grow up pretending to slay dragons and save the princess, or ride their horses into battle, and rule over kingdoms because of the heroism, beauty, and romanticism of the time.

Princesses and knights and everything that comes with them are still popular now.

Just look at the Medieval Fairs and even restaurants catering to those who love it.

Gift Guides for Families

Many books, movies, and board games have been inspired by this era as well.

Gifts For Medieval History Buffs

Whether you’re looking for a unique gift for a friend, family member, or even yourself, this Amazon medieval history buff gift list is sure to enchant and delight.

12 Gifts For Medieval History Buffs

You'll love one or two of these ideas.

3 Piece Functional Medieval Feasting Set

Hand forged from carbon steel whether they choose to display or use these eating utensils they will love the authentic look of them.

LEGO Creator 3 in 1 Medieval Castle Toy, Transforms from Castle to Tower to Marketplace, Includes Skeleton and Dragon Figure

This is truly one of the coolest sets I have seen, and they also have a blacksmith shop. These are perfect to put together while learning about this dark time. It is a set that even an adult will enjoy putting together and keeping on display.

Complete Chainmail Kit - 20 Weave Tutorial Book

What a fun project for any medievalist to make their own jewelry or cosplay pieces to experience a small piece of what the heroes would have worn into a fierce battle.

Strategy Board Game | Medieval Adventure Board Game |

Set in the Medieval city by the same name but using a modern strategy for this tile-building game that can be played by 2-5 players aged 12+. There are also plenty of expansions like Inns Cathedrals, Traders & Builders, The Flying Machines and more to make it a more complex expanded
game play..

Medieval Fantasy Blue Dragon Goblet

Just like the utensils a chalice from long ago would make a great display piece or a great conversation piece when used at dinner, I have gifted it to a teenage boy and seen it get plenty of use

Children's Encyclopedia of Knights and Castles

A beautiful full-color illustrated encyclopedia outlining everything from medieval daily life to warfare for the young medievalist.

Medieval Wooden Charcuterie Cutlery Cheese Board Knight's Shield

For the adult who enjoys medieval weaponry and is also a foodie this set is amazing. How could you not enjoy slicing your aged cheddar with a miniature medieval ax?

Beowulf (No Fear) (Volume 3)

Read great works of literature with NO FEAR—and actually understand what they mean!No Fear Literature puts the world’s finest books at your fingertips! With the complete original text on the left-hand page, and an easy-to-follow translation on the right to guide you, you can fully grasp the meaning and brilliance of each classic.

Great Medieval Projects: You Can Build Yourself (Build It Yourself)

For the younger Middle Ages enthusiasts, a book of projects with supply lists and plans can get them going on recreating their replicas of medieval recipes, jester hats, and instruments to name a few ideas included.But it's not just a list of activities. This book gives lots of great information, and vocabulary words related to the period, and tells of famous people of the time.

Masterpieces 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle - Medieval Castle

I love this puzzle's bright image of a castle that is a cutaway showing many aspects of castle life from feasts to prisoners in the dungeon. It would be a great project for the whole family to complete together.

Medieval Warrior Middle Age Crusader Viking Sword

One of the most exciting and interesting things about the Middle Ages is the weaponry and how such marvelous things were crafted long before technology. A sword replica is something that can be put on display to enjoy and if they already collect an addition is very likely always welcome.

Knights and Suits of Armor Illustrations

Add a frame to this detailed armor illustration and you have a nice gift for the study, homeschool space, or even the living room.

16th President Abraham Lincoln Crafts and Facts | Cute Lincoln Toilet Paper Roll

December 9, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Here are 8 fun Abraham Lincoln crafts to celebrate the day he delivered the Gettysburg Address – November 19, 1863. You’ll also love my free War Between the States or American Civil War Unit Study and Lapbook page.

This craft is also great for presidents unit study or any Lincoln study you might be doing.

16th President Abraham Lincoln Crafts and Facts | Cute Lincoln Toilet Paper Roll

The Gettysburg Address was given at the official dedication ceremony for the National Cemetery of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania.

It was the site of one of the bloodiest and most decisive battles of the Civil War.

“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. “Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.” –
Abraham Lincoln

As the 16th President Abraham Lincoln was a huge and important part of America’s history, he issued the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring slaves free.

He also preserved the Union, established the Department of Agriculture, supported the development of a transcontinental railroad, and enacted the Homestead Act.

He is an important historical figure you will want to highlight in your homeschool but as always you know I love to include lots of hands-on activities for learning.

Fun Books and Resources About Abraham Lincoln

So, to make your study full and fun I have a cute Lincoln Toilet Paper roll DIY that you will enjoy making.

Also, I have some Abraham Lincoln facts, some great books, and resources to turn your topic into a unit study.

16th President Abraham Lincoln Books and Resources

Add some of these books and resources to make a learning day about Lincoln and his accomplishments to American history

Abraham Lincoln

It was this spirit they hoped to exemplify in their biography of young Abe as he grew into manhood against the backdrop of the wilderness of Kentucky, the deep woods of Indiana, and the prairies of Illinois. Camping for weeks in Lincoln country, the d'Aulaires imbibed the spirit of the man Lincoln as well as his humor and good will. From his days as a clerk, teaching himself law reading Blackstone, practicing law in Springfield, running unsuccessfully for office, debating Stephen Douglas over the issue of slavery, and ultimately becoming President of the United States, the d'Aulaires have written and beautifully illustrated the life of one of America's most remarkable citizens.

Abraham Lincoln: A New Birth of Freedom (Heroes of History)

When President Lincoln died the next morning, the United States mourned as it had never mourned before. An assassin had killed the man who had led Americans through the bloody turmoil of the Civil War with an unswerving commitment to rebuilding a strong and united country.

Abraham Lincoln and the Heart of America: The Jim Weiss Audio Collection

This dramatic audiobook introduces young listeners to Abraham Lincoln’s life and explains his role in American history. Jim Weiss’ spirited narration will remind children and adults alike why Lincoln
holds a special place in American history and in our hearts. This audiobook includes vivid descriptions of Lee, Grant, Stephen Douglas, Mary Todd Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, the complete Gettysburg Address, and more.

Lincoln's Grave Robbers

The action begins in October of 1875, as Secret Service agents raid the Fulton, Illinois, workshop of master counterfeiter Ben Boyd. Soon after Boyd is hauled off to prison, members of his counterfeiting ring gather in the back room of a smoky Chicago saloon to discuss how to spring their ringleader. Their plan: grab Lincoln's body from its Springfield tomb, stash it in the sand dunes near Lake Michigan, and demand, as a ransom, the release of Ben Boyd - and $200,000 in cash.
From here, the action alternates between the conspirators, the Secret Service agents on their trail, and the undercover agent moving back and forth between the two groups. Along the way readers get glimpses into the inner workings of counterfeiting, grave robbing, detective work, and the early days of the Secret Service. The plot moves toward a wild climax as robbers and lawmen converge at Lincoln's tomb on election night: November 7, 1876.

Abe Lincoln Grows Up

A beautifully told story of young Abraham Lincoln’s coming-of-age. Drawn from the early chapters of Carl Sandburg’s Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, Abraham Lincoln: The Prairie Years, this is the story of Abraham Lincoln’s childhood.

Growing up poor on the family farm, Abe did chores, helped his father cut down trees, and expertly skinned animals and cured hides. As a young man, he became an avid reader. When he witnessed a slave auction while on a flatboat trip down the Mississippi, he was forever changed—and so was the future of America. This is the remarkable story of Lincoln’s youth, early America, and the pioneer life that shaped one of our country’s greatest presidents.

My Little Golden Book About Abraham Lincoln

Help your little one dream big with a Little Golden Book biography all about President Abraham Lincoln! The perfect introduction to nonfiction for preschoolers!

I am Abraham Lincoln (Ordinary People Change the World)

The heroes are depicted as children throughout, telling their life stories in first-person present tense, which keeps the books playful and accessible to young children. This book spotlights Abraham Lincoln who always spoke his mind and was unafraid to speak for others.This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book are:• A timeline of key events in the hero’s history • Photos that bring the story more fully to life • Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable• Childhood moments that influenced the hero• Facts that make great conversation-starters• A virtue this person embodies: Abraham Lincoln's compassion made him a great leader.

Abraham Lincoln: An Adventure in Courage (Pop-Up Book)

Pop-up pages trace the life of Abraham Lincoln,

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln

Winner of the Lincoln Prize Acclaimed historian Doris Kearns Goodwin illuminates Abraham Lincoln's political genius in this highly original work, as the one-term congressman and prairie lawyer rises from obscurity to prevail over three gifted rivals of national reputation to become president.

Next, you’ll want to add some facts about Lincoln to your unit study.

Here are 5 facts about Abraham Lincoln.

5 Abraham Lincoln Facts

Lincoln lost five separate elections before being elected president in 1860.
Abraham Lincoln only attended 18 months of formal education and taught himself to read by borrowing a neighbor’s books.
He was a lawyer before becoming president, he passed the bar exam in 1936 and went on to practice law.
Lincoln had 4 children- Robert, Tad, Edward, and Willie. Sadly, only Robert survived to adulthood.
Abraham Lincoln established the Secret Service that is still active today, though much different than its original intent, he signed the legislation for it on the day he was shot at Ford’s Theater.

Next, you’ll find some of these other crafts about Abraham Lincoln and his life.

Add one or two to your unit study too.

8 Abraham Lincoln Crafts

Make a super cute Abraham Lincoln Paper Plate Craft that serves as a mask of sorts for your little one to pop their face through.
Learn How to Make an Abraham Lincoln Top Hat that is perfect for dramatic play or maybe for giving a presentation at your co-op.
After a simple lesson on Lincoln’s childhood, you can Build a Lincoln Log Cabin with Craft Sticks on Paper.
Or opt for this stand-up option and create a Paper Bag Craft: 3D Lincoln Log Cabin Instructions.
This Abraham Lincoln Hat Weave Activity is a good way to work on fine motor skills as you read all about our 16th president.
Don’t forget my huge free Civil War Lapbook.
Older children will enjoy this Easy How to Draw Abraham Lincoln and Coloring Page that gives a step-by-step easy method from start to finish.
Scroll down a bit but this Coffee Filter Penny Project is a great way to familiarize your child with the famous face on the penny.

Finally, look at making this cute Lincoln toilet paper roll craft.

Cute Lincoln Toilet Paper Roll

You will need:

Empty toilet paper roll
White and black construction paper
Flesh-colored craft paint
Google eyes
Pencil or marker
scissors
Paintbrush
Gluestick

First, paint the top half of the roll flesh color and set aside to dry.

Grab something circular just a little bigger than the diameter of the toilet paper tube, trace it on black construction paper, and cut it out.

Cut two strips of black 6 ½” by 3” and make a v in the center of one to create his jacket.

Cut a piece of white construction paper 6”x 2 ½”.

Finally, using the scraps of black construction paper to cut a little beard, you will need to eyeball it on the tube to get the size and shape to be a good fit.

Glue and wrap the white strip around the bottom half of the tube to make a shirt.

Glue the black strip with the V cut out over the top of that, centering the V.

Attach the Google eyes and draw on a nose and mouth.

Glue the black circle to the top, this will be the brim of his hat.

Roll the second black rectangle strip and glue it to the top of this circle for the top of the stovepipe hat.

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.

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.

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

More Northern Cardinal Hands-on Learning Activities

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

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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.

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

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.

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).
What kinds of animals are reptiles? Lizards, snakes, turtles, alligators, and crocodiles.
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.
What is the world’s largest reptile? That title goes to the saltwater crocodile, one was even recorded at over 20’ long.
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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.

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.

6 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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Need a gift for your map-loving child?

Navigating the Perfect Present: 22 Gifts for Geography Lovers

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.

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

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: bfbooks.com

Teacher Guide Around the World Part 1 - Homeschool Teacher's Guide

Raise world travelers! In this homeschool geography teacher guide your child will encounter cultures and landscapes across Asia, Africa, Australia and Antarctica, and will gain appreciation for the incredible diversity of people and places that comprise our world.

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 Grades 2-4

Trust Rand McNally's Junior Classroom Atlas for the right amount and level of information for your elementary students. Our colorful, engaging atlas is ideal for students in second through fourth grades and was developed from our award-winning Classroom Atlas, just simplified for younger students.

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".

Monuments of World | 3D Puzzles for Kids

Enjoy a journey through time as kids build 10 of the greatest monuments of the world history like The Pyramids, Taj Mahal, The Colosseum and Statue Of Liberty in this construction set.

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

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

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. iscover 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.

Antique Globe

MORE THAN DECORATION: Antique Globe (5.5-inch, height Including stand: 7 1/2") has high quality printing which is fine and clear, led to a very easy and enjoyable experience when one to read the geographical sphere. It displays countries, political boundaries, capital cities, major cities, and more, feel free to use it every day and refer to it anytime.

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.

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Gifts For Medieval History Buffs

Fun Books and Resources About Abraham Lincoln

5 Abraham Lincoln Facts

8 Abraham Lincoln Crafts

Cute Lincoln Toilet Paper Roll

Colorful Winter Bird Northern Cardinal

Northern Cardinal Lapbook

More Northern Cardinal Hands-on Learning Activities

Books for Kids About Northern Cardinals

Minibooks Included in the Free Cardinal Lapbook

How to Download the Lapbook

Questions and Answers About Reptiles

5 More Questions and Answers About Reptiles

Hands-On Reptile Activities

Make a Turnip Tailed Gecko Craft from The Amazon Rainforest

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