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Welcome

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

September 21, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 19 hands-on rainforest activities for kindergarten. Too, grab more kindergarten activities on my Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum page. Also, look at my pages Rain Forest – Animals of the Amazon, Rain Forest – Amazon, and Rainforest Activities for Kids for more ideas.

And learning about the rainforest is a fun subject to cover for any grade including kindergarten.

Too, teaching children at the kindergarten age should include hands-on activities and should be play-based.

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

Kindergarten learners can discover the rainforest through their senses. And the word “rain forest” denotes the fact that these are the some of the world’s wettest ecosystems.

While exploring nature, they learn through the sense of smell, hearing, taste, and touch.

So, you’ll want to include learning through the senses and a full immersion into the world of nature.

If you have room in your learning space, create a play-based Amazon theme area. Make the jungle come alive through music and props.

AMAZON RAINFOREST ANIMALS

First, begin with what kids this age love and that is animals.

There are many Amazon rainforest animals which your child can focus on.

A few animals which can ignite your child’s love for the wealth of the life that lives in the rainforest are:

  • Jaguars
  • Toucans
  • Iguanas
  • Giant Ant Eaters
  • Kinkajou also called honey bears
  • Harpy Eagles
  • Piranhas
  • Sloth and
  • Butterflies
  • Red and Green Macaw

And look at this ANIMALS OF THE WILD AMAZON Coloring Book for Kids & Adults: Learn about nature of the Rainforest.

Besides the animals are really what excites your kids when learning about the rainforest.

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

You’ll love the page I have here Rain Forest – Animals of the Amazon where your children can see more pictures.

RAINFOREST ACTIVITIES

Next, I have many rainforest activities for kids of all ages, but your kindergarten aged children will love putting together this fun lapbook.

Actually, my lapbooks are for multiple ages and are mix and match. Not all kids, especially kindergarten are on at the same level. That is perfectly normal.

Kids this age can be reading beginning chapter books, and some are still learning letter sounds. All of this is well within the range of normal for this age.

The point is kids love learning and this is the time for projects. And look how fun this is: Melissa & Doug Stamp-a-Scene Stamp Set: Rain Forest – 20 Wooden Stamps.

For example, look at these free Amazon rainforest lapbooks.

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

Look here to read about my free Amazon Rainforest Lapbooks.

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

OTHER KINDERGARTEN RESOURCES

Look at some of these other kindergarten resources.

  • How to Create the Best Homeschool Schedule for Kindergarten (free printable)
  • 60 Favorite Top Homeschooling Materials for Kindergarten
  • 10 Affordable and Complete Homeschool Kindergarten Curriculum
  • How to Effortlessly Blend Kindergarten Homeschool Subjects & Life
  • BEST Free Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum With A Gentle Approach (List)
  • Delightful Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum Which Promote a Love of Learning
  • 21 Fun All-In-One Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum

19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten

Look at the 19 crafts below. I know you’ll find one or two that will add some fun to your child’s learning day.

Rainforest Activities

Kindergarten learning should be about hands-on crafts, moving, singing and learning that is play- based or crafts.

These rainforest crafts can be done by all your kids but especially your kindergarten aged children.

Image for Easy Bird Finger Puppet Origami
Photo Credit: www.redtedart.com

Easy Bird Finger Puppet Origami

Well, we have a super duper special and EASY Bird Finger Puppet Origami project for you. These are so easy, and so fun to turn into doodle birds, that you will wonder **where** they have been all your life! So fun.

Image for Make an Easy Paper Plate Monkey

Make an Easy Paper Plate Monkey

Rainforest crafts for kindergarten encourages creativity, fosters imagination, and strengthens fine motor skills. Crafts are part of teaching how to homeschool kindergarten.

Image for Toilet Paper Roll Macaw Craft
Photo Credit: www.littleladoo.com

Toilet Paper Roll Macaw Craft

Looking for a fun craft project for kids with Toilet Paper Rolls? Why not make a Macaw craft!

Image for Handprint Parrot Craft For Kids
Photo Credit: www.simpleeverydaymom.com

Handprint Parrot Craft For Kids

If you need a fun craft to go with a rainforest theme try out this cute handprint parrot craft.

Image for Sloth Letter Recognition Activity
Photo Credit: abcsofliteracy.com

Sloth Letter Recognition Activity

Your kids are going to have fun naming capital and lowercase letters as they “feed” the sloth in this Sloth Letter Recognition Activity. 

Image for Rainforest Collage for Kids
Photo Credit: www.thekeeperofthememories.com

Rainforest Collage for Kids

Your preschoolers and kindergartners will have a blast with this Rainforest Collage for Kids. This process art activity is perfect for encouraging creative thinking, problem-solving, and of course fine motor skills.

Image for Butterfly Symmetry Painting
Photo Credit: www.littleladoo.com

Butterfly Symmetry Painting

Try this Fun Art Project – Butterfly Symmetry Painting. It is easy, and fun and kids will love the unique result every time.

Image for Lotus Flower Process Art for Kids
Photo Credit: www.thekeeperofthememories.com

Lotus Flower Process Art for Kids

Encourage creative thinking, problem-solving, and fine motor skills while learning about the rainforest with this Lotus Flower Process Art for preschoolers and kindergartners! You’re definitely going to want to check it out!

Image for Phonemic Awareness Activity: Rainforest Animal Slide
Photo Credit: growingbookbybook.com

Phonemic Awareness Activity: Rainforest Animal Slide

Does your child know most of his letter sounds?  Are you wondering what to work on next? If so, it’s time to play with those sounds and how they work together to make words.

Image for Cute Sloth Handprint Craft
Photo Credit: www.simpleeverydaymom.com

Cute Sloth Handprint Craft

Image for Rainforest Tree Frog Math Games
Photo Credit: thepreschooltoolboxblog.com

Rainforest Tree Frog Math Games

Come play to learn in preschool or Kindergarten with FUN Tree Frog Math Games to encourage developing skills.

Image for Rainforest Animal Letter Maze Worksheets
Photo Credit: abcsofliteracy.com

Rainforest Animal Letter Maze Worksheets

Are your kids learning about the rainforests? Then, grab these free printable Rainforest Animal Letter Maze Worksheets.

Image for Rainforest Process Art
Photo Credit: www.thekeeperofthememories.com

Rainforest Process Art

This Rainforest Process Art is a wonderful way to encourage creative thinking, problem-solving, and of course fine motor skills. You’re definitely not going to want to miss it!

Image for Make Colorful Climbing Paper Tree Frogs
Photo Credit: barleyandbirch.com

Make Colorful Climbing Paper Tree Frogs

Explore a variety of fun art-making styles with this climbing paper tree frog craft for kids that sticks to smooth surfaces using the magic of suction cups to mimic the real thing!

Image for Make a Bubble Wrap Stamped Chameleon
Photo Credit: barleyandbirch.com

Make a Bubble Wrap Stamped Chameleon

Inspired by green (the ultimate color of spring!) our cardboard chameleon craft and DIY fascinator start with an incredibly fun process your kids can try as a stand-alone chameleon art activity. 

Image for Go on a Mini Backyard Safari
Photo Credit: barleyandbirch.com

Go on a Mini Backyard Safari

Spring and summer weather is grand for heading outside to go on an exciting mini backyard safari – no jeep necessary!

Image for DIY Sloth Bookmark Corner - Red Ted Art - Easy Kids Crafts
Photo Credit: www.redtedart.com

DIY Sloth Bookmark Corner - Red Ted Art - Easy Kids Crafts

We never tire of Origami Corner Bookmarks – they are so fun and easy to make and are a great easy STEAM project to get kids started on origami – looking at angles and symmetry and the great things you can make. Then learn how to decorate your origami bookmark and turn it into a fun DIY Sloth Bookmark Corner! And who doesn’t LOVE a Sloth Craft?!

Image for Toilet Paper Roll FROG Craft
Photo Credit: www.redtedart.com

Toilet Paper Roll FROG Craft

So as our love affair with this humble craft material continues, we share with you today the Toilet Paper Roll Frog Craft! A perfect little TP Roll Craft for Spring.

Image for Cardboard Tube Parrot Craft
Photo Credit: kidscraftroom.com

Cardboard Tube Parrot Craft

Squawk! This Cardboard Tube Parrot Craft is a fabulous Summer bird craft for kids. 

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: amazon rain forest, crafts, earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, kindergarten, life science, rainforest, science

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

September 7, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

There are so many easy chemistry experiments to do at home using just basic household supplies in your pantry or under the sink.

You don’t need a lab coat or a cabinet full of chemicals to explore real chemistry. Some of the most fascinating reactions happen with stuff you probably already have in your kitchen.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Milk, vinegar, baking soda, and food coloring aren’t just cooking staples; they’re active chemical ingredients.

Acids, bases, proteins, and gases are all sitting in your pantry, just waiting for the right combination to set off a reaction.

You don’t need a fancy lab to see real chemical reactions in action.

Curdling milk into plastic, watching an egg turn rubbery, or making a volcano erupt on your countertop are all genuine demonstrations of acid-base chemistry, protein structure, and gas production.

That makes your kitchen one of the best (and safest) places to introduce chemistry concepts. For example, acid-base reactions, protein denaturation, and gas production can be learned in the kitchen.

BOOKS AND RESOURCES FOR A CHEMISTRY UNIT STUDY

Next, look at these books about chemistry and with fun chemistry activities.

12 Chemistry Books & Resources for Kids of All Ages

But first here are some resources that are a great introduction and more to chemistry for kids.

Image for Superstars of Science

Superstars of Science

Discover fun facts about the greatest scientists from history through Basher's fresh and unique illustration style.

Did you know that Marie Curie used to keep radioactive materials in her pockets? Or that Mendeleyev literally dreamed up his famous periodic table? Superstars of Science tells the stories behind the big ideas in the fields of physics, chemistry, medicine, mathematics, cosmology, earth sciences, and engineering. Read about 40 great scientists including Newton and Einstein who produced theories that explained the way in which the Universe works, Crick and Watson who uncovered the structure of DNA, and Alexander Graham Bell who had the big idea that became the telephone. Each one of these greats of science has had some vital flash of insight that has changed the way we see the world and the way we live. Come meet the superstars of science!

Image for Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction

Basher Science: Chemistry: Getting a Big Reaction

Discover the secrets of chemistry, and learn about the properties of matter and the ways in which they interact, combine and change. Chemistry is a compelling guide to a community of characters who make up everything around us.

Image for Crucibles: The Story of Chemistry from Ancient Alchemy to Nuclear Fission

Crucibles: The Story of Chemistry from Ancient Alchemy to Nuclear Fission

This book is a classic in the field of popular science. Standard reading since the 1930s, it is one of the few histories of chemistry to concentrate on the lives of the great chemists. Through these dramatic and human stories, it gives an authoritative and entertaining account of the great discoveries and advances in this scientific field. After many printings in three previous editions, this book has been newly revised by the author for this fourth edition. Beginning with Trevisan and his lifelong search for the "philosopher's stone," the author narrates the lives and discoveries of such towering figures as Paracelsus and his chemical treatment of disease; Priestley looking for phlogiston and finding oxygen and carbon dioxide, Lavoisier creating a new language of chemistry; Dalton and his Atomic Theory; Avogadro and the idea of molecules, Mendeleeff arranging the table of elements under his Periodic Law; the Curies isolating radium; Thomson discovering the electron; Moseley and his Law of Atomic Numbers; Lawrence and the construction of the cyclotron; and more. Probably the most dramatic chapter in the book, the account of the development of nuclear fission, ends the story of chemistry at its most monumental achievement.

Image for The Chemistry of Cola

The Chemistry of Cola

You’ll be amazed at all you can learn from this favorite drink – what’s in it, why it fizzes, what you can do with it, the containers it’s in, and more!

Image for Napoleon's Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History

Napoleon's Buttons: How 17 Molecules Changed History

Napoleon's Buttons is the fascinating account of seventeen groups of molecules that have greatly influenced the course of history. These molecules provided the impetus for early exploration, and made possible the voyages of discovery that ensued. The molecules resulted in grand feats of engineering and spurred advances in medicine and law; they determined what we now eat, drink, and wear. A change as small as the position of an atom can lead to enormous alterations in the properties of a substance-which, in turn, can result in great historical shifts.

Image for 52 Extreme Kids Chemistry Experiments Set - STEM Activities & Science Kits

52 Extreme Kids Chemistry Experiments Set - STEM Activities & Science Kits

If you want your child to be able to explore and complete some simple chemistry experiments without running around grabbing all the items an all in on kit is just the thing to add to your chemistry studies.

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

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 -- from the Big Bang through the end of time.

Image for Chemistry Fluxx Card Game - Science Games Card Games for Kids

Chemistry Fluxx Card Game - Science Games Card Games for Kids

 Chemistry EditionChemistry Fluxx is the perfect compound of chance, skill and strategy-use atoms and laboratory tools to match the current goal of the game and win! The rules are always changing in Fluxx. The Keepers, Goals, Rules and Action cards determine how the game will be played.

Image for Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments: All Lab, No Lecture (DIY Science)

Illustrated Guide to Home Chemistry Experiments: All Lab, No Lecture (DIY Science)

For students, DIY hobbyists, and science buffs, who can no longer get real chemistry sets, this one-of-a-kind guide explains how to set up and use a home chemistry lab, with step-by-step instructions for conducting experiments in basic chemistry -- not just to make pretty colors and stinky smells, but to learn how to do real lab work:

  • Purify alcohol by distillation
  • Produce hydrogen and oxygen gas by electrolysis
  • Smelt metallic copper from copper ore you make yourself
  • Analyze the makeup of seawater, bone, and other common substances
  • Synthesize oil of wintergreen from aspirin and rayon fiber from paper
  • Perform forensics tests for fingerprints, blood, drugs, and poisons
  • and much more
Image for The Joy of Chemistry: The Amazing Science of Familiar Things

The Joy of Chemistry: The Amazing Science of Familiar Things

Written for lay readers, provides an introduction to the principles of chemistry and includes quotations from popular literature to show how chemistry and everyday life intertwine.

Image for The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry (Cartoon Guide Series)

The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry (Cartoon Guide Series)

If you have ever suspected that "heavy water" is the title of a bootleg Pink Floyd album, believed that surface tension is an anxiety disorder, or imagined that a noble gas is the result of a heavy meal at Buckingham Palace, then you need The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry to set you on the road to chemical literacy.

You don't need to be a scientist to grasp these and many other complex ideas, because The Cartoon Guide to Chemistry explains them all: the history and basics of chemistry, atomic theory, combustion, solubility, reaction stoichiometry, the mole, entropy, and much more—all explained in simple, clear, and yes, funny illustrations. Chemistry will never be the same!

Image for Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned ... But Probably Didn't!

Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned ... But Probably Didn't!

AIR IS NOT OXYGEN is a fun way to brush up on essential science concepts you missed in school. (Admit it. You probably thought you had better things to do than study!) Clear, short chapters focus on mastering key concepts instead of memorizing facts. Dozens of optional hands-on activities make science come alive! In a style described as “Dave Barry meets Bill Nye with a touch of the Mythbusters,” award-winning author, Bill Morelan, debunks common misconceptions about basic science. Reflecting both the National Science Content Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards, AIR IS NOT OXYGEN covers Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, and Science Methods.A fun, informative read, AIR IS NOT OXYGEN helps fill the gaps in your science education. (Never be humiliated by science geeks again!) Perfect for sharing, or as a handy basic reference tool. Makes a great book for kids, too.

Best of all, the ingredients are already in your kitchen, so nothing stops you from starting your first experiment today.

Below I have links to 10 simple experiments you can try today. And take a deeper dive into the coolest one: turning milk into moldable plastic.

 EASY CHEMISTRY EXPERIMENTS TO DO AT HOME

Gather up your baking soda, yeast, watercolors, vinegar, and other basic items and get ready to amaze your kids with your scientific genius.

Look at the science fun I have found for you below.

  1. Try these Gummy Juice Noodles: Food Chemistry Experiment for Kids.
  2. 2 Fun Chemistry for Kids Experiments & John Dalton Notebooking Pages
  3. Watch a Baking Soda Growing Tree form overnight.
  4. 10 Facts About Oxygen For Kids | How To Do An Underwater Flame Experiment |Free Printable
  5. Make a Simple Chemistry Hatching Dino Egg for the dino lover.
  6. Learn How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable
  7. Medieval Chemistry and Homeschool History – Fun Hands-On Activity
  8. Simple Chemical Reaction Experiment – Steel wool and vinegar reaction is great for preschool through early elementary.
  9. How to Make Elephant Toothpaste | Fun Chemistry Activities & Printable
  10. Enjoy edible Delightfully Fizzy Sherbet – Go Science Girls.
Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

 
Even though these experiments use safe household products, this is a great time to introduce lab safety and encourage your child to use proper equipment like gloves and safety goggles.

TURNING MILK INTO MOLDABLE PLASTIC EXPERIMENT

This is the star of the show today; I am giving you the simple breakdown for this one.  With just two ingredients, you can watch milk transform from a liquid into a moldable, rubbery solid, essentially homemade bioplastic.

First, talk about the chemistry behind it with your learner. 

Milk contains a protein called casein, which normally stays suspended in the liquid because of its electrical charge and the milk’s pH balance.

Vinegar is acetic acid, and adding it lowers the pH of the milk.  

That change causes the casein proteins to lose their charge and clump together in a process called curdling or denaturation.

In fact, casein plastic (sometimes called “Galalith”) was actually used commercially in the early 1900s to make buttons, jewelry, and pen casings before synthetic plastics took over-amazing!

You will need:

  • 1 cup of milk (whole milk works best)
  • 4 tablespoons of white vinegar
  • A saucepan
  • A strainer or cheesecloth
  • A bowl of cold water
  • Cookie cutters or molds
  • Paper towels
Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s warm but not boiling (small bubbles forming at the edges are your cue).

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Remove from heat and stir in the vinegar.

The solid curds you’re left with are almost pure casein, and this protein has a naturally plastic-like structure.

MILK AND VINEGAR PLASTIC (CASEIN PLASTIC)

Watch closely; within seconds, you’ll see white clumps (curds) separate from a yellowish liquid (whey). This is the reaction in action.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Let it sit for a minute, then pour the mixture through a strainer to separate the curds from the liquid.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

I will say this batch doesn’t make much, so if you have more than one kid or want to create a larger plastic shape, you will want to double or triple the recipe to be sure you have plenty.

Rinse the curds gently under cold water, then press out excess moisture with paper towels.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

While it’s still warm and pliable, knead the curds like dough or press flat for the cookie cutter.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Press them into a mold, shape them by hand, or flatten out and cut them with a cookie cutter.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

Let your creation air-dry for 24–48 hours.

Easy Chemistry Experiments To Do At Home

As it dries, it hardens into a solid, plastic-like material.

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

Free France Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History

September 4, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Fill this free France lapbook with my printables or add some your child created. Too, on my Homeschool Lapbooks – Powerful Tools For Mastery Learning page you can find more free homeschool lapbooks.

Because France is a country with fascinating history, beautiful castles, famous landmarks and delicious food, it makes for a fun unit study too. Also, look at my page Free Quick France Unit Study and Make Easy French Bread to use this lapbook and free France unit study for a whole study project.

Free France Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History

France is one of the countries that make up Europe and has coastlines along the Atlantic Ocean, the English Channel, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Studying France gives kids a chance to see how people in another country live

Also, add some of these fun books and resources.

BOOKS & RESOURCES ABOUT FRANCE FOR KIDS

We prefer living books when we find them. But add one or two to your day for a read aloud.

Books and Resources for Studying About France

Add some of these books and resources to your unit study about France or the French Empire.

Image for Merriam-Webster’s Student Atlas

Merriam-Webster’s Student Atlas

  • Discover the world’s landforms and bodies of water, the highest and lowest elevations, and learn more about ocean currents, and wind patterns.
  • Thematic maps cover diverse topics such as continental drift, ocean floor, climate, natural resources, and population density.
  • Features up-to-date statistics and global information.
Image for Where Is the Eiffel Tower?

Where Is the Eiffel Tower?

Learn about the Eiffel Tower, beloved and iconic symbol of Paris, France, and one of the most recognizable structures in the world!When the plans for the Eiffel Tower were first announced, many people hated the design of the future landmark, calling it  ungainly and out of step with the beautiful stone buildings of the city. But once it went up for the World's Fair in 1889, the people of Paris quickly fell in love with the tower. Today it seems impossible to imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower, which greets millions of visitors each year who climb up its wrought-iron stairs, ride its glass elevators, and enjoy the wonderful views of the city spread out below it.

Image for Madeline

Madeline

Nothing frightens Madeline—not tigers, not even mice. With its endearing, courageous heroine, cheerful humor, and wonderful, whimsical drawings of Paris, the Madeline stories are true classics that continue to charm readers, even after 75 years!Ludwig Bemelmans (1898-1962) was the author of the beloved Madeline books, including Madeline, a Caldecott Honor Book, and Madeline's Rescue, winner of the Caldecott Medal.

Image for France ABCs: A Book About the People and Places of France (Country ABCs)

France ABCs: A Book About the People and Places of France (Country ABCs)

An alphabetical exploration of the people, geography, animals, plants, history, and culture of France.

Image for Who Was Claude Monet?

Who Was Claude Monet?

Claude Monet is considered one of the most influential artists of all time. He is a founder of the French Impressionist art movement, and today his paintings sell for millions of dollars. While Monet was alive, however, his work was often criticized and he struggled financially. With over one hundred black-and-white illustrations, this book unveils a true portrait of the artist!

Image for French Picture Dictionary Coloring Book: Over 1500 French Words and Phrases for Creative & Visual Learners of All Ages (Color and Learn)

French Picture Dictionary Coloring Book: Over 1500 French Words and Phrases for Creative & Visual Learners of All Ages (Color and Learn)

You know you’ve never learned French like this before!

Learning a new language is a new way of meeting new people, opening doors in your professional career and attracting fresh opportunities when traveling around the world, as you may know. Spoken by over 280million people all over the world, French is the fifth most spoken language on the planet, so learning it will blow up your social and business circles!

Image for The Everything Kids' Learning French Book: Fun exercises to help you learn francais

The Everything Kids' Learning French Book: Fun exercises to help you learn francais

Bonjour, mon ami! So, you want to learn French but don't know where to start? Start ici, with The Everything Kids' Learning French Book. Inside, you'll find simple exercises, fun facts, tips on pronunciation, and popular phrases that enable you to read and speak French in no time at all.

Image for LEGO Architecture Paris Skyline Building Kit with Eiffel Tower and The Louvre

LEGO Architecture Paris Skyline Building Kit with Eiffel Tower and The Louvre

  • Celebrate Architecture - LEGO Architecture sets celebrate the world of architecture, design, and history through the medium of the LEGO brick, ideal for travel enthusiasts
  • Relaxing Building Experience - This LEGO set is designed for adults and kids aged 12+, providing a rewarding and relaxing building experience, perfect for home or office décor
Image for 100 PICS France Game | Kids Games

100 PICS France Game | Kids Games

PLAY 100 PICS FRANCE: Keep your kids entertained with our card games! 100 PICS is a fun game that can teach your children about the beautiful country of France! Perfect for family game night at home or on the go to take as a vacation essential.

In addition, France has a long and fascinating history.

Kids can explore important periods and events, including medieval France, the French Revolution, and the reign of famous kings and queens.

And include famous landmarks, French art, discover French food and learns some French alongside the free French lapbook.

MORE ACTIVITIES ABOUT THE COUNTRY OF FRANCE

  • 8 France Crafts For Kids And Make Fun Vocabulary Bracelets
  • Free Quick France Unit Study and Make Easy French Bread
  • Unit Study: French Revolution + Free Storming the Bastille Game
  • Make a Sun King Fun Medallion – Louis XIV, also known as Louis the Great or the Sun King, was King of France from 1643 until his death in 1715
  • Free Homeschool History Cards – French and Indian War
  • 15 Hands-on History Ideas for Kids Studying the French and Indian War
  • French Revolution Unit Study + Free Copywork
  • Free 4 Weeks Claude Monet Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • 4 Week Free Middle Ages Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas
  • Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study
Free France Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History

Additionally, look at these other lapbooks about countries.

FREE COUNTRY LAPBOOKS FOR KIDS

  • Free Africa Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History
  • Free Lapbook India for Kids Who Love Hands-on History
  • Free Lapbook Mexico For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Lapbook Argentina for Kids Who Love Hands-on History
  • Free Lapbook Canada For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Ireland Lapbook For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Scotland Lapbook For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free England Lapbook For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Lapbook Asia For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Spain Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History
  • Free Lapbook Portugal For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning

Last, look the minibooks included in this free download.

FREE FRANCE LAPBOOK MINIBOOKS

  • Discover France Where is France
  • Let’s learn French
  • French Fashion
  • Famous French People
  • Fun Facts About France
  • Famous Places

Now, how to grab the freebie.

It’s a subscriber freebie.

HOW TO GET THE FREE FRANCE LAPBOOK

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: Lapbooks Tagged With: France, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, lapbook, lapbooking, lapbookresources, lapbooks

How to Make a Coat of Arms Activity & Free Printables (Middle Ages History)

August 29, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re learning how to make a coat of arms activity and I have some free printables at the end of the post. Also, look at my 4 Week Free Middle Ages Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas for more activities.

I’m extremely fascinated by the Middle Ages. I know that the reality of that time was far less romantic than novels and films make it seem, but the castles and the jousting tournaments and the costumes are just wonderful to think of.

How to Make a Coat of Arms Activity & Free Printables (Middle Ages History)

In those years (and in the years since), royal and noble families have had a coat of arms to show what they’ve accomplished in their history.

And, while the coat of arms is often associated with Medieval Europe, it’s actually been used all over the world – from China to Senegal.

To learn more about how these designs were used and passed down through families, we decided to make our own coat of arms! See how you can do the same for a hands-on history lesson!

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE MEDIEVAL AGES

Next, add some living books to this hands-on history craft.

9 Medieval History Books & Resources For Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add a few of these books to your Middle Ages or Medieval unit study.

Image for King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table (Puffin Classics)

King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table (Puffin Classics)

King Arthur is one of the greatest legends of all time. From the magical moment when Arthur releases the sword in the stone to the quest for the Holy Grail and the final tragedy of the Last Battle, Roger Lancelyn Green brings the enchanting world of King Arthur stunningly to life. One of the greatest legends of all time, with an inspiring introduction by David Almond, award-winning author of Clay, Skellig, Kit's Wilderness and The Fire-Eaters.

Image for A Castle with Many Rooms: The Story of the Middle Ages

A Castle with Many Rooms: The Story of the Middle Ages

This covers people and events and covers a larger period of time.

Image for Days of Knights and Damsels: An Activity Guide

Days of Knights and Damsels: An Activity Guide

Kids can re-create a long-ago world of kings, castles, jousts, jesters, damsels, magic fairies, and Robin Hood—all they need are their imaginations, materials they can find at home, and the activities in this book. Dressing up in a coat of armor made from plastic milk jugs, whipping up a batch of curds and whey, writing secret messages in invisible ink, and telling time with a sand glass made from soda bottles are just some of the fun projects. Every activity is illustrated, and sidebars highlight colorful facts about life hundreds of years ago.

Image for The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History

The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History

This newly updated book will introduce you to world history, from prehistoric times to the start of the 21st century. Find out about dinosaurs, the first humans, Ancient Egypt, the Aztec Empire, Medieval Europe, the First World War and many more fascinating subjects.

Image for The Door in the Wall

The Door in the Wall

Set in the fourteenth century, the classic story of one boy's personal heroism when he loses the use of his legs.

Image for The Kitchen Knight: A Tale of King Arthur

The Kitchen Knight: A Tale of King Arthur

The Knights of the Round Table were in their glory. When an unknown stranger visits the castle and asks Kin Arthur's favor, he is allowed to serve in the kitchen for his meat and bread. Little does anyone suspect that he is of noble blood and will soon be knighted by the famous Sir Lancelot. Lush illustrations bring the reader into the book, as Sir Gareth meets adventures and battles to free a princess from the fearsome Red Knight of the Plain.

Image for Castle: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

Castle: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

In this 1978 Caldecott Honor Book, award-winning author and illustrator David Macaulay explores the history and construction of castles in a richly illustrated resource for curious young readers. The word itself conjures up mystery, romance, intrigue, and grandeur. What could be more perfect for an author/illustrator who has continually stripped away the mystique of architectural structures that have long fascinated modern man? With typical zest and wry sense of humor punctuating his drawings, David Macaulay traces the step-by-step planning and construction of both castle and town.

Image for The Middle Ages: An Interactive History Adventure

The Middle Ages: An Interactive History Adventure

I like to incorporate a wonderful and informational book to support our topic while making it fun and engaging. The Middle Ages, choose your own adventure style book is fantastic for middle elementary.

Image for The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood (First Edition): Illustrated Classics

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood (First Edition): Illustrated Classics

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood was written and illustrated by Howard Pyle and published in 1883. It is the best known version of the story of Robin Hood which had been popular throughout the previous century. Pyle popularized Robin Hood, his adventures, and his band of merry men in a way that influenced most later depictions in writing, drawing, and film. The book consists of a series of episodes pitting the outlaw Robin Hood, Little John, Friar Tuck and the rest of his band against corrupt authorities epitomized by the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.

Hands-On History: Make a Coat of Arms

A coat of arms is a special design made for a distinguished person or family. The design varies, depending on the family’s (or person’s) accomplishments, titles, and positions.

Each part of the coat of arms actually has a name.

The top third is called the “field” and the bottom two-thirds is called the “escutcheon”, which is actually a small shield within the larger shield.

How to Make a Coat of Arms Activity & Free Printables (Middle Ages History)

Everything on a coat of arms is significant and meaningful. The colors, symbols, choice of animals, patterns, and designs can all denote something different.

The design of a coat of arms can vary greatly, according to family or country. For example, this is the coat of arms of the country of Botswana.

Coat of arms of Botswana

Now compare that one to this one that belongs to the Duke of Westminster.

Coat of Arms of the Duke of Westminster without Order of Garter

There’s a lot going on there, right?

For our coat of arms, we went with a much, much simpler design, but it incorporates some of the significant colors, symbols, and patterns we read about.

To do the activity yourself, you’ll need the following:

  • Printer paper
  • Cardstock
  • Scissors
  • Glue
  • Blank coat of arms printable (add your email at the bottom and get the freebies instantly)
  • Coat of arms animal symbols printable
  • Mirror facing coat of arms animal symbols printable
Simple Coat of Arms Activity

Start by printing out the coat of arms and the animal symbols.

Coat of Arms Printable Craft

I didn’t have white cardstock, so I printed ours on a white piece of printer paper and then glued it on the grey cardstock we had. Then we cut it out.

If you have white cardstock, you can skip that step and just print the coat of arms directly on that.

Making a Coat of Arms

Now, it’s time to choose your animal symbols! I only included four in this printable, but there are truly scores of different animals that have been used on coats of arms through the years. And they all have a different meaning.

The animals in the printable mean the following:

  • Griffin – means valor & bravery
  • Pegasus – means poetic genius (as an English major, I had to include that one)
  • Horse – means ready for battle
  • Bird – means peace & affection
Creating a Coat of Arms

Then it was time to choose our coat of arms colors! As we learned, blue means truth & loyalty, so we colored the “field” blue.

Choosing Animals for a Coat of Arms

Then we added our animals.

Choosing Colors for a Coat of Arms

And we surrounded them with orange, which means “worthy ambition & work”. Also because it looked cool.

DIY Coat of Arms Craft

Finally, we learned that furs denoted nobility, so you could add a fur-like pattern to your coat of arms to show that you were of the upper class of society.

One of those fur patterns was white with black spots – like a Dalmatian. We went with that.

As I kept looking at it, though, it just didn’t look right. Then it hit me! The animals are supposed to be facing each other!

Finished Coat of Arms Craft

Ahhhh….that’s better!

Be sure to print both pages of the animal symbols so that you can choose two animals that will face one another on the coat of arms.

This was so neat to do! We didn’t know that the coat of arms was so full of meaning, so this was a great hands-on lesson to learn about that.

Looking for an easy hands-on middles ages history activity? Your kids will love making their own coat of arms. Scoot by and download the activity at Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus!

The printables are subscriber freebies.

HOW TO GET THE FREE BLANK COAT OF ARMS, ANIMAL SYMBOLS & MIRROR FACING ANIMAL SYMBOLS PRINTABLES

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!

Check out these other hands-on history projects kids can do!

  • Hands-On History: Make an Egyptian Collar Craft
  • Free Ancient Egypt Mehen Printable Board Game

Written by Selena at Look! We’re Learning!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities, History Based Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, medieval homeschool history, middle ages history

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

August 28, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Knight crafts are a creative way to explore the medieval world of heroes and what it took to become one. Also, look at my 4 Week Free Middle Ages Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas for more activities.

If your homeschool has been deep in a knights-and-castles unit lately, you know how quickly the craft ideas pile up. We started with a simple hanging banner project.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

And it ended up being one of my favorite things we’ve made all year, both because it turned out beautifully and because it gave my son a chance to think about who he is, not just what knights were.

To give the crafts more meaning, we spent some time talking about who knights actually were, since the pop-culture version (shining armor, dragons, damsels) is only loosely connected to the history.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE MEDIEVAL AGES

Next, add some living books to this hands-on history craft.

9 Medieval History Books & Resources For Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add a few of these books to your Middle Ages or Medieval unit study.

Image for King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table (Puffin Classics)

King Arthur and His Knights of the Round Table (Puffin Classics)

King Arthur is one of the greatest legends of all time. From the magical moment when Arthur releases the sword in the stone to the quest for the Holy Grail and the final tragedy of the Last Battle, Roger Lancelyn Green brings the enchanting world of King Arthur stunningly to life. One of the greatest legends of all time, with an inspiring introduction by David Almond, award-winning author of Clay, Skellig, Kit's Wilderness and The Fire-Eaters.

Image for A Castle with Many Rooms: The Story of the Middle Ages

A Castle with Many Rooms: The Story of the Middle Ages

This covers people and events and covers a larger period of time.

Image for Days of Knights and Damsels: An Activity Guide

Days of Knights and Damsels: An Activity Guide

Kids can re-create a long-ago world of kings, castles, jousts, jesters, damsels, magic fairies, and Robin Hood—all they need are their imaginations, materials they can find at home, and the activities in this book. Dressing up in a coat of armor made from plastic milk jugs, whipping up a batch of curds and whey, writing secret messages in invisible ink, and telling time with a sand glass made from soda bottles are just some of the fun projects. Every activity is illustrated, and sidebars highlight colorful facts about life hundreds of years ago.

Image for The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History

The Usborne Encyclopedia of World History

This newly updated book will introduce you to world history, from prehistoric times to the start of the 21st century. Find out about dinosaurs, the first humans, Ancient Egypt, the Aztec Empire, Medieval Europe, the First World War and many more fascinating subjects.

Image for The Door in the Wall

The Door in the Wall

Set in the fourteenth century, the classic story of one boy's personal heroism when he loses the use of his legs.

Image for The Kitchen Knight: A Tale of King Arthur

The Kitchen Knight: A Tale of King Arthur

The Knights of the Round Table were in their glory. When an unknown stranger visits the castle and asks Kin Arthur's favor, he is allowed to serve in the kitchen for his meat and bread. Little does anyone suspect that he is of noble blood and will soon be knighted by the famous Sir Lancelot. Lush illustrations bring the reader into the book, as Sir Gareth meets adventures and battles to free a princess from the fearsome Red Knight of the Plain.

Image for Castle: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

Castle: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

In this 1978 Caldecott Honor Book, award-winning author and illustrator David Macaulay explores the history and construction of castles in a richly illustrated resource for curious young readers. The word itself conjures up mystery, romance, intrigue, and grandeur. What could be more perfect for an author/illustrator who has continually stripped away the mystique of architectural structures that have long fascinated modern man? With typical zest and wry sense of humor punctuating his drawings, David Macaulay traces the step-by-step planning and construction of both castle and town.

Image for The Middle Ages: An Interactive History Adventure

The Middle Ages: An Interactive History Adventure

I like to incorporate a wonderful and informational book to support our topic while making it fun and engaging. The Middle Ages, choose your own adventure style book is fantastic for middle elementary.

Image for The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood (First Edition): Illustrated Classics

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood (First Edition): Illustrated Classics

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood was written and illustrated by Howard Pyle and published in 1883. It is the best known version of the story of Robin Hood which had been popular throughout the previous century. Pyle popularized Robin Hood, his adventures, and his band of merry men in a way that influenced most later depictions in writing, drawing, and film. The book consists of a series of episodes pitting the outlaw Robin Hood, Little John, Friar Tuck and the rest of his band against corrupt authorities epitomized by the evil Sheriff of Nottingham.

Then, learn about knighthood.

QUICK GLANCE AT KNIGHTHOOD IN MEDIEVAL EUROPE

Knighthood grew out of medieval Europe, roughly the 9th through 16th centuries, as feudal societies needed mounted, armored warriors who owed loyalty to a lord in exchange for land.

Becoming a knight was a process, not just a title.

Boys often started as pages around age 7, became squires in their early teens serving an existing knight, and were finally knighted (often by being tapped on the shoulders with a sword, the “accolade”) in their late teens or twenties.

Knights were expected to follow a code of chivalry- ideals like courage, loyalty, honesty, and protecting the weak- though how well any individual knight lived up to that varied a lot, just like any code of ethics.

Armor evolved a lot over the centuries, from chainmail to the full plate armor most people picture, and it was expensive, which meant knighthood was tied closely to wealth and social class.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

The Knights Templar, which inspired one section of our banner, were a real military-religious order founded in the early 1100s to protect Christian pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem.

Their symbol was a red cross, which is why that’s such a recognizable “knight” image even today.

Tournaments (jousting, sword fighting) weren’t just entertainment; they were how knights trained and kept their combat skills sharp during peacetime.

This is a great time to introduce the idea that “history” and “legend” often blend; a lot of what we picture as knights (dragons, wizards, damsels in towers) comes from medieval and later storytelling, not documented history.

Below, I’m sharing how we made our banner, a little bit of the knight history we covered alongside it, and some movie and show recommendations to round out your unit.

KNIGHT RESOURCES

Add some fun books, movies, figurines and other items to help bring your knight unit to life.

  • How to Train Your Dragon
  • What Are Castles and Knights?
  • The Sword in the Stone
  • The Lion in Winter
  • A Knight’s Tale 
  • The Boy Knight: A Tale of the Crusades – Books
  • Safari Knights and Dragons Toob

Then look at these other crafts about knights.

MORE KNIGHT CRAFTS

  1. How to Make a Knight Templar Helmet for Fun Medieval Times Crafts
  2. Knight Costume from Made Cardboard Amazon Prime Boxes – Sugar Bee Crafts
  3. Knight’s Armor Engraving Craft
  4. Fairy Tale Castles Art Project | Deep Space Sparkle
  5. DIY Knight Costume for under $20! – Sweet Anne Designs
  6. Color Your World: Fun and Easy Dragon Stained Glass Project
  7. Easy Dollar Tree Cake Pan Knight Shield Craft
  8. DIY Dragon Eggs
  9. 5 Usborne Knights And Castles Books | How To Make A Medieval Toilet Roll Castle

Finally, look at how to make this cool hanging knight banner.

HOW TO MAKE A HANGING KNIGHT BANNER

You will need:

  • A canvas banner (ours came from Hobby Lobby)
  • Paint pens
  • A pencil for sketching guidelines first
  • A ruler or yardstick (optional, for dividing the banner evenly)
How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

First, divide the banner into four sections.

Using a pencil, lightly mark the banner into quarters.

This gives you a simple grid to work within so the design doesn’t feel overwhelming, and it’s an easy way to fit several symbols onto one banner without it looking cluttered.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

Allow your child to choose their symbols; this is the part that made the project special.

Instead of a generic “knight” design, we picked four images that were specifically about my son:

  • A dragon wing (he’s obsessed with dragons)
  • His initial
  • A sword (for courage/knighthood)
  • A Knights Templar cross (tied into what we were learning about medieval knighthood)

Sketch each design lightly in pencil inside its section before committing to paint pen. This lets you fix proportions or placement without any mess.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

Trace and fill in with paint pens.

Paint pens are great for this age/skill level because they give clean lines without the drips or bleed-through you’d get with regular paint and a brush.

Go back over your dividing lines with a paint pen to give the sections more emphasis. Allow the paint to dry before hanging.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

The banner I bought from Hobby Lobby did not come with anything to hang it.

How to Make a Hanging Banner & 9 More Knight Crafts

So, I added ribbon loops through the holes and ran a large dowel rod through them, securing with hot glue.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschool, knights, medieval Europe, medieval homeschool history

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