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Hands-On Activities

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

January 10, 2023 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You’ll love these fun facts about the beautiful bald eagle and torn paper bird craft. Also, grab more information about birds on my page Dynamic and Delightful Hands-on Bird Unit Study and Lapbook.

Besides eagles being beautiful and powerful, they are symbols of hope, freedom, strength, and immortality. 

National Save the Eagles Day is a day to raise awareness about eagles and to give thanks for the conservation efforts to prevent their extinction.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

We are celebrating with activities, art projects, book lists, and more to learn about these beautiful creatures of prey.

Eagle Facts

● January 10th is Save The Eagles Day.
● Harpy eagles are the largest eagle in the Americas and have a wingspan of up to 6.5 feet wide. They are the most powerful raptors in the Amazon.
● Eagles are large birds of prey which are members of the bird family Accipitridae.
● There are more than 60 eagle species in the world, the majority found in Africa and Asia. Only two species can be found in the United States and Canada which are the Bald Eagle and the Golden Eagle.
● Most eagles build their nests between 50 and 125 feet high. This changes depending on their environment.
● In St. Petersburg, Florida, the largest bald eagle nest was found. It measured 9.5 feet in diameter, 20 feet deep, and almost 6,000 lbs.
● Eagles have a lifespan of 20 years.
● At the top of the food chain are eagles. They are apex predators
● The American bald eagle has been the national bird of the United States since 1782.

Next, look at these fun books and resources.

Books and Resources about Eagles

14 Fun Resources for Studying about Eagles

Add some of these fun activities, books and resources to learn about eagles.

Image for 1. Eagle and Birds of Prey: Discover the World of Birds of Prey―How They Grow, Fly, Live, and Hunt

1. Eagle and Birds of Prey: Discover the World of Birds of Prey―How They Grow, Fly, Live, and Hunt

Eyewitness: Eagles and Birds of Prey is a guide to birds of prey of all shapes and sizes. From majestic falcons to soaring vultures, you'll get a bird's eye view of their amazing world. Learn about their styles of flight and their hunting techniques. Explore the preying and feeding habits, from specialist feeders to scavengers. 

Image for 2. Science Comics: Birds of Prey: Terrifying Talons

2. Science Comics: Birds of Prey: Terrifying Talons

Every volume of Science Comics offers a complete introduction to a particular topic―dinosaurs, the solar system, volcanoes, bats, robots, and more. Whether you're a fourth grader doing a natural science unit at school or a thirty-year-old with a secret passion for airplanes, these graphic novels are for you!

Image for 3. Big Book of Birds (The Big Book Series)

3. Big Book of Birds (The Big Book Series)

Following up the hugely successful The Big Book of Bugs, The Big Book of Beasts, and The Big Book of the Blue, The Big Book of Birds is a fact-filled tour of the world’s most wonderful winged creatures. Yuval Zommer’s distinctive illustrations show off some of the most colorful, flamboyant, impressive, and wacky birds of the sky. Picture-book charm pairs with informative nonfiction to make a beautiful, large-format title for parents to share with young children and for older children to read by themselves.

Image for 4. EAGLE 300 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

4. EAGLE 300 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle

HIGH-QUALITY JIGSAW PUZZLE: The stunning, lifelike image is mounted on premium chipboard. Random cut pieces are thick and sturdy – they come fully separated with cleanly cut edges (dust-free!) that fit together snugly and hold up to repetitive use.

Makes amazing wall décor. Glue it, then mount the masterpiece!

Image for 5 PCS Birds of Prey Figurines

5 PCS Birds of Prey Figurines

This set brings you some of the most amazing birds of prey from around the world!

5 Piece Set includes Bald Eagle, Falcon, Hawk, Owl, and Vulture.

Image for 6. Supertoob: USA,Figure Playsets

6. Supertoob: USA,Figure Playsets

 Use birds of prey figurines including a Bald Eagle to make a diorama or sensory bin, they are also great used for art inspiration. My eagle came from the USA Safari Toob.

Image for 7. Thunder Birds: Nature’s Flying Predators

7. Thunder Birds: Nature’s Flying Predators

Acclaimed naturalist and illustrator Jim Arnosky helps birds and imaginations take glorious flight in this breathtaking nonfiction picture book with six giant gatefolds.
Arnosky will draw out kids' inner explorer as he explains why there are no feathers on a vulture's head, which bird is the deep-diving champ, what makes an owls's wings perfectly silent in flight, and much more.
Readers can use this gorgeously illustrated book to bring the wilderness right into their rooms-or as a guide on their next expedition.

Image for 8. 100 Facts Birds of Prey- Hawks, Eagles, Ornithology, Educational Projects, Fun Activities, Quizzes and More!

8. 100 Facts Birds of Prey- Hawks, Eagles, Ornithology, Educational Projects, Fun Activities, Quizzes and More!

Flip through 100 fascinating facts covering everything from hunting prey to patrolling airports, then test your knowledge with fun quizzes. Each page is packed with activities, projects and mind-blowing facts for a truly engaging experience. With stunning photographs and beautiful illustrations, this fun-filled book is sure to challenge young readers and prepare them for academic success. 

Image for Simulated Bald Eagle Figurines Plastic Eagle

Simulated Bald Eagle Figurines Plastic Eagle

Your child will love these to use in sensory bins or dioramas or just as a model to paint or play with.

Image for Is a Bald Eagle Really Bald?

Is a Bald Eagle Really Bald?

A bald eagle doesn't sound like an attractive bird. But it's pictured on the Great Seal of the United States and on the dollar bill. Why was this bird chosen as a national symbol?

Image for Bailey the Bald Eagle and the Great Flight

Bailey the Bald Eagle and the Great Flight

Bailey is a bald eagle who comes from a long lineage of high flyers, with her grandfather even holding the world record for being the highest flyer. So, it comes as a bit of a surprise to her family when she is scared of heights. This fear keeps her down every day, literally, but it also helps her meet some amazing friends she never would have otherwise. This story is about how we are all afraid of something, but it's how we overcome those fears that matters most.

Image for My Little Book of Bald Eagles

My Little Book of Bald Eagles

This is a delightful story about a new family of bald eagles. From newborn's first lessons in life to the first solo flight, this beautifully illustrated book is ideal for introducing young children to the wonders of nature.

Image for Harpy Eagle (Apex Predators of the Amazon Rain Forest)

Harpy Eagle (Apex Predators of the Amazon Rain Forest)

It's early morning in the Amazon rain forest. A large monkey is climbing through the branches of a tall tree. Suddenly, there's a flash of white and black feathers. An enormous harpy eagle swoops between the leafy branches and snatches the monkey from the tree. Then the giant predator carries its prey high into the treetops and begins to eat. Filled with information perfectly suited to the abilities and interests of its primary-grade audience, this colorful, fact-filled book gives readers a chance not only to learn all about harpy eagles and their Amazon rain forest home, but also to develop their powers of observation and critical thinking. Built-in activities, such as figuring out how the bird's body is adapted for hunting, and investigating how much weight the eagle can carry in its talons, give readers a chance to gain insights beyond the facts and figures.

Image for Wild Life Realistic Harpy Eagle Figurine -

Wild Life Realistic Harpy Eagle Figurine -

This Harpy Eagle Figurine would make an amazing addition to your dioramas, sensory bins, trays

Moreover, here are a few more paper bird crafts.

More Paper Bird Crafts

  • How to Make a Fun Paper Mache American Robin Bird Craft
  • How to Make a Colorful Paper Bird Craft 
  • Rocking Paper Bird Craft
Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Additionally, add more unit studies about specific birds.

More Bird Lapbooks

  • North American Robin Unit Study
  • Peregrine Falcon Unit Study and Lapbook
Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Finally, let’s have fun by making this paper bird craft.

How to Make a Torn Paper Eagle Bird Craft

You will need:

  • White, yellow, blue, and brown construction paper
  • Glue
  • Paintbrush
  • Pencil
  • Google eye
  • Black marker

First, for older children you can let them completely free hand their torn paper artwork.

And for younger children you might lightly pencil in the general shape of the eagle’s head for them to work inside or on the blue construction paper

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Encourage your child to tear up all the other colors of construction paper into various small sizes and shapes.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Provide your child with a small bowl of paint and a paintbrush to paint in the shape of the eagles head.

Next, they can press torn paper into the glue, brown on bottom, white on top, filling in the color well.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Add a google eye and yellow torn paper for the beak.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Allow to dry completely before displaying. You may need to press under a heavy book once it’s dry to flatten.

Also, illustrate how large the eagle’s nest is by this fun nest activity.

Giant Eagle’s Nest Activity

This activity combines science, some math, and a whole lot of fun.

Bald Eagles hold the record for the largest nests.

To give your child an idea of just how large it is we are going to build a giant eagles nest and do it right in the middle of the living room.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

You will need:

  • A measuring tape
  • Piles of blankets and sheets
  • Throw pillows

The average eagle’s nest size is 4’-6’. Use the measuring tape to mark out a circle in whatever size you have the space for (the largest nest discovered was 9 ½” feet in diameter

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Have your child “build” a nest using blankets and sheets in this area, a king size sheet or blanket makes a good-sized base.

We went 6 ½” feet in diameter.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

Work on building up the sides with throw pillows.

While they are usually more than 3” feet tall that may be a little tough to make with your household bedding extras.

Demonstrate with the measuring tape how tall it would be a minimum.

Tell your child to hop in and experience the roomy comfort that an eaglet would be welcomed to after hatching.

Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

1 CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: bald eagle, birds, eagles, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, life science, science

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

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

This fun hands-on moon crater experiment is a great introduction to learn about Galileo Galilei and his discover of Jupiter’s moons. Add it to my Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for a fun study.

On January 7th, 1610, Jupiter’s first four moons were discovered by Galileo Galilei through a homemade telescope.

It is one of Galileo Galilei’s most important contributions to science.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

The 4 Galilean Moons are named lo or Jupiter 1, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto. 

Earth has 1 moon, but did you know that there are over 200 moons in our solar system?

 Most of the major planets, except Mercury and Venus have moons. 

Even Pluto and some of the other dwarf planets have small moons. Some asteroids even have moons.

If you look up at our moon, even with the naked eye you can see craters.

These craters were formed when rocks or comets smashed through space to hit the surface of the Moon.

And we’re going to do a fun moon crater experiment, but first look at these fun facts about Galileo Galilei

Facts about Galileo Galilei and the Jupiter Moons

  • Galileo Galilei was born in the year 1564.and he was born in the town of Pisa, in what is now Italy.
  • His father was Vincenzio Galilei who was a cloth merchant and musician.
  • Although Galileo’s dad wanted him to be a doctor, Galileo was good in math and didn’t want to be a doctor.
  • He invented the telescope and realized his telescope could magnify things to be large.
  • One of his first observations was the moon. At that time people thought the moon was smooth. However, Galileo said the moon was full of bumps and craters.
  • In 1592, Galileo became a professor of mathematics at the University of Padua.
  • One of the many things that set Galileo apart was that he believed in the Copernican system. There were 3 things he believed was 1 ) rotation of the earth on its axis 2) that the planets revolve around the sun  and 3) conical axial motion of the earth to explain a fixed earth’s orientation in space.
  • Ganymede is the largest moon in the Solar System, is larger than the planet Mercury.
  • Io or Jupiter 1 is covered in volcanoes and lava.
  • Europa is covered in ice and has a huge saltwater sea beneath the ice.
  • Callisto is thought to be a dead world with hardly any geologic activity on its surface.
  • 57 more of Jupiter’s moons have been given names and the rest are waiting.
Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

Also, add some moon vocabulary words.

Moon Vocabulary Words

Additionally, learn moon vocabulary words which can be added to your lapbook.

For example, look at these moon vocabulary words below.

  • Moon (Answer: A celestial body that makes an orbit around a planet)
  • Celestial (Answer: A natural object that exists outside of the earth’s atmosphere)
  • Orbit (Answer: The path an object makes around a particular point in space, like around the earth)
  • Crater (Answer: Holes on the surface of moons caused by the impact of meteoroid)
  • Lunar (Answer: Something that is related to the moon)
  • Revolve (Answer: To move in a circle around a fixed point)

Too, here are some fun books and resources.

12 Resources and Books For Studying About the Moon and Galileo

If you want to focus on the moon in your astronomy and space unit study, add one of these fun resources to your day.

Image for 1. Who Was Galileo?

1. Who Was Galileo?

Like Michelangelo, Galileo is another Renaissance great known just by his first name--a name that is synonymous with scientific achievement. Born in Pisa, Italy, in the sixteenth century, Galileo contributed to the era's great rebirth of knowledge. He invented a telescope to observe the heavens. From there, not even the sky was the limit!

Image for 2. The Moon Book (New & Updated Edition)

2. The Moon Book (New & Updated Edition)

This newly revised edition, available in time for the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, incorporates new, up-to-date information based on recent discoveries, and includes an updated map of the moon's surface. Thoroughly vetted by an astrophysics expert, The Moon Book is a perfect introduction to lunar phases, orbit, the history of space exploration, and more.

Image for 3. Galileo and the Magic Numbers

3. Galileo and the Magic Numbers

Sixteenth century Italy produced a genius who marked the world with his studies and hypotheses about mathematical, physical and astronomical truths. His father, musician Vincenzio Galilei said, “Truth is not found behind a man’s reputation. Truth appears only when the answers to questions are searched out by a free mind. This is not the easy path in life but it is the most rewarding.” Galileo challenged divine law and the physics of Aristotle, and questioned everything in search of truths. And it was through this quest for truth that he was able to establish a structure for modern science.

Image for 4. Moon: A Peek-Through Picture Book

4. Moon: A Peek-Through Picture Book

It’s the perfect light nonfiction book for young stargazers—and an ideal bedtime book, ending with a giant moon hovering over a sleepy town hunkered down for bed.

Image for 5. Moon Lamp

5. Moon Lamp

Novelty Moon Lighting: Realistic Colorful Star Galaxy printed 🌌 Moon Lamp with advanced 3D technology. Now decorate your bedroom, hall, office or desk with our Space Theme gorgeous Galaxy Lamp. Your guests will definitely admire the beauty of this lively moon light.

Image for 6. Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners

6. Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners

Quality Optics: 400mm(f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes. Perfect telescope for astronomers to explore stars and moon.

Image for 7. Jupiter (Planets in Our Solar System)

7. Jupiter (Planets in Our Solar System)

Everything about Jupiter is big! Its size is big. Even its storms are big! Get the big and small facts about this gas giant that can be seen glowing in the night sky.

Image for 8. Galileo Galilei (Genius Series)

8. Galileo Galilei (Genius Series)

Astronomer, physicist, and philosopher Galileo Galilei was referred to as "The Father of Modern Science," because of his groundbreaking research. Making observations about nature, and using mathematics to back them up, he proved the Copernican Theory true: the Sun, not the Earth, is the center of the universe. Join Galileo on his pioneering journey to see why his work had such long-lasting implications, and why the Catholic Church even condemned him for heresy.

Image for 9. What the Moon is Like

9. What the Moon is Like

Imagine that you're walking on the moon. What is it like? For thousands of years people looked up at the moon and wondered about it. Now we know what the moon is like. There is no air on the moon and nothing grows, but there are towering mountains and deep craters—and much more.

Colder than the desert, the hotter than the desert, the moon is an amazing place to explore.

Image for 10. A Kite for Moon

10. A Kite for Moon

What would it be like if the moon was your friend? Find out as you walk alongside a little boy who journeys through life to achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. And then blast off with your little one as you zoom to the moon together!

The story begins when a little boy, who is flying his kite, notices a sad Moon. He sends up kites to her, writing notes promising he will come see her someday. This promise propels him through years of studying, learning, and training to become an astronaut. Until … he finally goes up, up, up in a big rocket ship with a fiery tail.

A Kite for Moon:

  • Features over 20 gorgeous illustrations by award-winning artist Matt Phelan
  • Is the perfect storybook for children ages 4 to 8
  • Celebrates every child’s fascination with space
Image for 11. Large Massive Meteorite Specimen

11. Large Massive Meteorite Specimen

You could also grab these meteorite specimens (artificial) to let your child use for impact craters!

Image for Moon! Earth's Best Friend (Our Universe, 3)

Moon! Earth's Best Friend (Our Universe, 3)

Meet Moon! She's more than just a rock―she’s Earth’s rock, her best friend she can always count on. Moon never turns her back on her friend (literally: she's always facing Earth with the same side!). These two will stick together forever. With characteristic humor and charm, Stacy McAnulty channels the voice of Moon in this next celestial "autobiography" in the Our Universe series. Rich with kid-friendly facts and beautifully brought to life by Stevie Lewis, this is an equally charming and irresistible companion to Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years and Sun! One in a Billion.

Additionally, look at these hands-on moon activities and space and astronomy activities.

Moon Activities and Space and Astronomy Ideas

  • Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages
  • Make a fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark) to display with more craters.
  • Track the moon cycles with my Free Moon Journal.
  • Quick astronomy and space study.
  • What a fun moon craft. 3-D Light Up Moon with Tissue.
  • Make an EASY Straw Rocket

Also, add this fun hands on Exploring Space and Astronomy Lapbook.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

And these minibooks can be used for notebooking pages or a lapbook.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Finally, do this fun moon crater experiment with your kids.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

Moon Crater Experiment

You will need:

  • A round shallow dish
  • Baking flour
  • Different sizes of weighted objects- rocks, marbles, etc.

Directions:

First, place a round dish on the floor.

Too, take this outside so the mess is easier to contain as the flour will spread and settle out a bit.

Smooth the flour a bit by hand or with a paintbrush.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

Have your child drop the objects from various heights to recreate the impact of comets and rocks hitting the moons surface.

You could also grab these meteorite specimens (artificial) to let your child use for impact craters.

Carefully remove the objects and point out to your child how the objects colliding into the surface left impressions in much the same way impacts in space leave craters.

Smooth your “moons” surface and repeat as many times as your child wants.

Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: earth science, earthscience, elementary science, Galileo, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, science

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver (Free Printable About Compost)

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

If you’re looking to do some beginner gardening projects for homeschool this easy composting idea will get you started. Too, learn about the amazing Dr. George Washington Carver will make it a fun day. Check out more ideas too at Easy Seed and Gardening Unit Study for Kids (Middle – Upper Elementary).

And because January 5th is George Washington Carver Day, it’s the perfect time to learn about him.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver

Focus on his hardships and he overcame them, what he did to help people understand about crops and to help people in the south better understand soil.

George Washington Carver made many contributions to his time that are still very relevant and helpful today. 

While most of us know him for his work with peanuts and sweet potatoes there is so much more to it than that.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver

About Dr. George Washington Carver

Dr. Carver was born into slavery and all the way through his graduate studies he struggled to find schools that would admit him because he was African American.

George Washington Carver was born sometime during the Civil War,

He was known as “Carver’s George,” and was enslaved to Susan and Moses Carver, successful Missouri farmers.

He taught and was the head of the Agriculture Department at Tuskegee Institute.

Dr. Carver was a botanist, agronomist, chemist, and inventor as well as a teacher.

Also, Dr. Carver worked with people in the south to help improve the soil and maximize crop yields.

Additionally, he encouraged farmers to improve their soil without commercial fertilizers either through planting legumes that improved the nitrogen of the soil and were great sources of protein for people but also by using compost.

If you are interested in gardening or homesteading on any level, composting is an easy thing to start with.

It is literally just gathering kitchen and yard waste and tossing it in a bin to decompose into free, nutrient rich soil that is perfect for improving small or large gardens.

Composting also helps cut down on the waste in your garbage and landfills by almost 30%.

Rather than filling your bins and landfills with this type of waste, you can turn it into soil for gardens or container plants.

First, add in some books about George Washington Carver for your gardening projects for homeschool.

11 Gardening and Composting with Dr. George Washington Carver Activities and Resources

Whether you're doing a gardening unit study or want to learn about the scientist Dr. George Washington Carver, you'll love a few of these resources.

Image for 1. In the Garden with Dr. Carver

1. In the Garden with Dr. Carver

Sally is a young girl living in rural Alabama in the early 1900s, a time when people were struggling to grow food in soil that had been depleted by years of cotton production. One day, Dr. George Washington Carver shows up to help the grown-ups with their farms and the children with their school garden. He teaches them how to restore the soil and respect the balance of nature.

Image for 2. Trees, Leaves, Flowers and Seeds: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Plant Kingdom

2. Trees, Leaves, Flowers and Seeds: A Visual Encyclopedia of the Plant Kingdom

Explore the incredible world of plants, from the smallest seeds to the tallest trees, whilst you discover all about the weirdest, smelliest and deadliest flowers on our planet, with this engaging
encyclopedia for children aged 9-12. 

Image for 3. Who Was George Washington Carver?

3. Who Was George Washington Carver?

Born in 1860s Missouri, nobody expected George Washington Carver to succeed. Slaves were not allowed to be educated. After the Civil War, Carver enrolled in classes and proved to be a star student. He became the first black student at Iowa State Agricultural College and later its first black professor. He went on to the Tuskegee Institute where he specialized in botany (the study of plants) and developed techniques to grow crops better.

Image for 4. Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

4. Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

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

Image for 5. Compost: A Family Guide to Making Soil from Scraps (Discover Together Guides)

5. Compost: A Family Guide to Making Soil from Scraps (Discover Together Guides)

Teach your kids that composting is fun with this funky guide that takes you from the nitty-gritty of compost composition and care to Worms and Ladders, a fresh take on a traditional board game.

Image for 6. Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth

6. Compost Stew: An A to Z Recipe for the Earth

Kids everywhere are seeking knowledge about the environment and climate change. Not only is composting becoming more common in households and residential gardens, but many school gardens feature compost piles, too

Image for 7. Nancy B's Science Club Garbage to Gardens Compost Kit & Decomposition Book

7. Nancy B's Science Club Garbage to Gardens Compost Kit & Decomposition Book

If you don’t have the yard space or just want to teach your child how composting works on a smaller scale you can grab a mini countertop Compost Kit to watch the breakdown.

Image for 8. Worms Eat My Garbage

8. Worms Eat My Garbage

How to Set Up and Maintain a Worm Composting System: Compost Food Waste, Produce Fertilizer for Houseplants and Garden, and Educate Your Kids and Family.
Image for 9. Outdoor Compost Bin

9. Outdoor Compost Bin

The compost bin is made of high quality and durable PP material, which is environmentally safe and can withstand cold winters, perfect for gardens, farmland, yards. In addition, the PP material is very durable, can retain heat while regulating moisture, and produce fertilizer as quickly as possible.

Image for 10. Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children

10. Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots: Gardening Together with Children

Here are 12 spirited, easy-to-implement ideas for theme gardens that parents and kids can grow together, connecting children to nature through gardening. Each project includes a plan and the planting recipe--as well as a "Discovery Walk," activities and crafts to make with what you grow. And each is illustrated with author Sharon Lovejoy's lyrical watercolors.

Image for 11. Gardening for beginners

11. Gardening for beginners

Great book for beginners.

Moreover, here are some fun gardening projects to add to your unit about George Washington Carver.

More Gardening Projects for Homeschool

  • How to Easily Garden Plan With Kids Using LEGO
  • Kinder Gardening to Celebrate Nature and Science
  • Easy Seed and Gardening Unit Study 
  • Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity
  • How to Easily Make Fun Seed Tape With Kids
  • How to Make a Fun Kids Root Viewer

Then add a simple compost lesson.

How to Teach Kids to Compost

To start composting all you need is an indoor compost container.

You can use something as simple as a designated bowl for it.

However, you will want to empty it into your outdoor compost bin at least once a day to avoid drawing bugs and having it emit an odor.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver

 If you use a small countertop compost container like this one below they have a charcoal filter up top and seal nicely.

With this you can empty it outdoors every other day or so and still have no odor.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver

As you have kitchen waste, just toss it in the compost container like eggs, coffee grounds, fresh fruit, and vegetable scraps, etc

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver

Next, you will need a compost bin for outdoors, this is where the real action will take place. The combination of waste will help everything break down into a healthy soil.

Create your own or buy a ready-made one.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver (Free Printable About Compost

“Stir” your compost pile with a rake or limb every 3 to 4 days to encourage decomposition.

Gardening Projects For Homeschool Easy Composting With the Amazing Dr. George Carver (Free Printable About Compost

A properly maintained compost bin will heat up and break down items faster than one that is not kept up. 

The proper percentage of compost waste is 50% green compost and 50% brown compost.

Green is fresh recently dead materials with life still evident-fresh grass, veggie and fruit scraps, manure, etc.

Brown is older dead materials like straw, twigs, dead leaves.

Finally, grab this free printable below. Laminate and put it on your refrigerator.

Too, you can add it your gardening notebook.

How to Get the Free Compost Printable

Finally, how to grab the free compost printable. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get this freebie.

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: earth science, earthscience, garden, gardening, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, science

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

December 30, 2022 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fun post about Daniel Boone explorer and adventurer. Today, we’re focused on a black bear unit study and making some fun edible bear poop. You’ll love my unit study and other ideas on my page Daniel Boone – North American Explorer and Best Homeschool Unit Studies.

If you are studying Daniel Boone, you should definitely spend some time learning zoology.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

And focus ton he animals that would have frequented the woods he hunted.

For instance, learn about fox, beaver, deer, wild turkey, and today’s study black bears.

I have a fun filled hands-on list of amazing resources for a bear unit study and a deliciously gross treat to kick it off.

I have rarely met a kid who doesn’t love gross potty humor.

Besides, this craft is a fun introduction to learn a few facts about bears.

So, we’ve created an edible pile of yummy gooey bear poop

8 Species of Bear in the World

But before that I am going to load you up with books, games, and activities to make it a wildly fun bear unit study.

Did you know that there are 8 species of bear in the world?

  1. American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
  2. Asian Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
  3. Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
  4. Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
  5. Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus)
  6. Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus)
  7. Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus)
  8. Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)

Also, focus on the black bear, which is probably the most common type for Daniel Boone to have hunted with his gun “Old Tick Licker”.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

However, comparison is also a great way to learn about a topic as well.

Daniel Boone Killed a Bear

Have your child research some of the following questions:

  • What is the largest species of bear? (Answer: Kodiak Bears)
  • Is a koala actually a bear? (Answer: No. They are marsupials)
  • Which state has the most bears? ( Answer: Alaska)
  • Why do bears hibernate? (Answer: Hibernation is a voluntary state that animals enter to reduce their exposure to winter elements, conserve energy, and when food is scarce.)
  • What is the average lifespan of a bear? (Answer: 10-20 years and some as long as 20)
  • How far away can a black bear smell? (Answer: 1 mile)
  • What are the 3 main subspecies of brown bear? (Answer: California Grizzly, Kodiak, and Grizzly.)

Furthermore, share one of the stories about Daniel Boone and bears.

Boon killed a bar on (this) tree in the year 1760.

More than a hundred and thirty years ago, he cut these words on a beech-tree, still standing in Eastern Tennessee,—”D. Boon killed a bar on (this) tree in the year 1760.”

You will see if you examine the tree, on which the words can still be read, that Boone could not spell very well; but he could what was considered more important then and that was to shoot to kill.

The tree stood on the banks of Boone’s Creek, near Jonesboro, Washington County, Tennessee.

Now, let’s look at a few more facts about black bears.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Black Bear Facts

Next, learn some fun facts about black bears.

  • Black bears have 42 teeth.
  • American black bears are omnivores, with their diets varying greatly depending on season and location.
  • Bears can see very well and in color.
  • Black bears can run up to 30-40 miles per hour.
  • They are most active in the morning and early evening.

  • Depending on where they live, bears eat grasses, nuts, berries, salmon, small rodents, and calves.
  • Having short retractable claws makes black bears excellent climbers.
  • The Latin name for black bears is Ursus americanus.
  • Regarding size, black bears can be 2 to 3 feet high at the shoulders and males weight 150 to 300 pounds.
  • Black bears are normally solitary animals except moms with cubs.

Furthermore, here are some videos.

  • Black Bear Family’s Epic Fight For Survival (Bear Documentary) YouTube.
  • 5 FACTS | Black Bears (True Facts) YouTube.
  • The American Black Bear: Everything You Need To Know! 
  • Black Bears – Yosemite Nature Notes 

More Daniel Boone Resources

Look at some other fun resources.

  • Daniel Boone Activities Cooking Easy and Delicious Johnny Cakes on the Trail
  • Daniel Boone Exploration DIY Easy Compass Activity and Survival Ideas
  • Amazing Daniel Boone Explorer Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study

Additionally, here are some books and activities to round out your study.

Black Bear Unit Study Resources

14 Books About Bears of All Kinds For Kids Who Love Reading

Add some of these fun resources and activities if you're studying about bears.

Image for 1. National Geographic Readers: All About Bears

1. National Geographic Readers: All About Bears

Kids love bears and in this book they'll be introduced to them all: Grizzly, polar, sun, sloth, black, and brown. Great full-color photos reveal details about how and where they live. Perfect for beginning and young readers, National Geographic Pre-readers

Image for 2. Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

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

While I do enjoy adding theme specific books to unit studies, I really love a book that gives a lot of mileage for multiple units. The anatomy series cover so much at such an amazing price point that I think they are a must have for any nature study. While you will find several  couple pages on bears, the books can be used to study landforms, other forest animals, layers of the earth, and so much more.

Image for 3. Big Book of Beasts (The Big Book Series)

3. Big Book of Beasts (The Big Book Series)

Another great book that will definitely get more than one use. This big beautiful picture book has perfectly sized snippets of information and makes a great reference spine.

Image for 4. Do Bears Poop in the Woods?

4. Do Bears Poop in the Woods?

Field guide and intrepid explorer Huw Lewis Jones and wildlife illustrator Sam Caldwell take readers out into the wild to discover all there is to know and love about the eight different species of bears. 

Do you know your panda from your polar bear? Or can you spot the difference between a sun bear and a sloth bear? Follow your expert field guide as we travel deep into the woods and across Arctic ice to learn all the “bear” necessities.

Image for 5. I Escaped The Grizzly Maze: A National Park Survival Story

5. I Escaped The Grizzly Maze: A National Park Survival Story

This is based on a true story and makes a great independent read for your older kids.

Image for 6. Forest Animal Track Game Flash Cards

6. Forest Animal Track Game Flash Cards

Animal Track game is a educational game that will teach kids how to match animals with their tracks and where to find them!

Most animals do not want to come in close contact with humans, but if you learn to notice and recognize their tracks, you will be able identify which animals visit your neighborhood or like to walk along the same trails as you do. Animal tracks can become a window into an otherwise hidden world-the presence and habits of wild animals.

Image for 7. Forest Animal-opoly

7. Forest Animal-opoly

Is there anything they haven't made an Opoly about? This woodland themed one will be a great addition to your study.

Image for 8. Camp Board Game

8. Camp Board Game

Finally, this game has two levels making it easy to include beginners and more experienced kids in the same game, Animal identification, fun facts, and quick gameplay make this ideal for any woods, wildlife, or camping themed unit

Image for 9. Learning Ecosystems, Food Chains & Food Learning Center Game - Grades 6-9

9. Learning Ecosystems, Food Chains & Food Learning Center Game - Grades 6-9

This is a fun way to learn and reinforce the food chain in the forest, with bears being one of the apex predators, making it ideal to go along with a bear unit study.

Image for 10. Bears: Polar Bears, Black Bears and Grizzly Bears (Kids Can Press Wildlife Series)

10. Bears: Polar Bears, Black Bears and Grizzly Bears (Kids Can Press Wildlife Series)

The eating habits of bears is one of 14 topics in this clearly written look at three North American bears --- grizzly bears, polar bears and black bears.

Image for 11. Black Bears: A Natural History

11. Black Bears: A Natural History

Of the three species (grizzly/brown, polar and black bear), Taylor examines and portrays his devotion and passion specifically to the black bear, the most populous of the species.

Image for Polar Bears

Polar Bears

The polar bear is the biggest and most powerful of the animals that are able to survive the hostile climate of the Arctic. Cubs are born during the cold dark winter, even though they start out with only a thin coat of fur and weigh a little over one pound. The mothers raise and teach them so they may grow and survive in the wild. Here is information about how polar bears swim and hunt, how they keep warm and dry, and the many other ways they adapt to their environment.

Image for Where Do Polar Bears Live? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Where Do Polar Bears Live? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

The Arctic might be a bit too chilly for humans, but it's the perfect home for polar bears. But the earth is getting warmer and the ice is melting. Where will the polar bears live? How can we help protect their home?

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It's a Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, which means the book explores more challenging concepts for children in the primary grades. The 100+ titles in this leading nonfiction series are:

Image for Polar Bear: Fascinating Animal Facts for Kids (This Incredible Planet)

Polar Bear: Fascinating Animal Facts for Kids (This Incredible Planet)

Fascinating Animal Facts | Polar Bear Learn all about the amazing and majestic polar bear. This hardy and formidable creature survives in the harshest of environments!

This Incredible Planet series provides young readers with interesting information about the Earth’s most fascinating creatures.

Beautiful color photography makes each animal come to life. Learn about the polar bear’s habitat, diet, breeding, lifespan, behavior, threats, and so much more!

Now, let’s make a fun hands-on activity that all your kids are sure to love.

Edible Bear Poop (aka Scat)

Let’s make the pile of bear poop to make your lesson memorable.

You will need:

  • 10 large marshmallows
  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 Tablespoons hot cocoa
  • 1 Tablespoon chocolate chips, butterscotch, or white chocolate
  • 1 ½ cups dry ingredients- cereal, nuts, raisins, coconut, etc.
Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

I used raisin brain and some peanuts mixed in for mine, but this is easy to adapt to whatever things you have on hand.

Directions:

Lay out a sheet of parchment paper on the counter.

Place butter and marshmallows in a large bowl and heat in the microwave in 30 second increments until completely melted.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Mix in chocolate chips.

Stir in dry ingredients until well mixed.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Plop onto parchment paper into large piles (makes about 2 good sized piles).

Allow to set up for about 1 hour.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

2 CommentsFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: american history, bears, DanielBoone, early American history, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, homeschoolhistory, life science, science

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

December 28, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

For the Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time book, we’re making a sun king fun medallion. Be sure to grab more Geronimo Stilton Books ideas and crafts on my page.

Let’s take a trip with our mouse guide Geronimo to the Court of Versailles in 1682 CE in Back in Time, The Second Journey Through Time to meet King Louis XIV and learn about Palace of Versailles.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Did you know that King Louis XIV (that’s #14 in Roman Numeral) was known as “The Sun King”?

It was a nickname that he gave himself.

And Louis XIV chose the sun as his personal emblem.

The sun is the symbol of Apollo who is the god of peace and the arts.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

King Louis named himself such because he wanted the realm to revolve around him like the planets revolve around the sun.

Be sure to grab Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time book.

Facts about the Sun King Louis XIV 

  • Louis ruled for 72 years, he was just shy of 5 years old when it passed to him.
  • King Louis XIV died of gangrene on September 1, 1715.
  • Louis XIV built his extravagant Palace of Versailles after the civil war known as the Fronde when he had to flee from his palace in Paris at just 12 years old, He fled to the family hunting lodge 13 miles outside Paris.
  • He was very strict in his protocols at court and every moment of the day was precisely organized and planned out.
  • The king was an excellent ballet dancer.
  • He died at the age of 76 and was succeeded by his grandson King Louis XV.
  • A U.S. state is named after him. Louisiana was given its name by French explorer René-Robert Cavelier for King Louis.

Then you’ll want to add a few more hands-on activities to understand about the French.

Hands-on Ideas to Understand the French Empire

For example, look at the hands-on ideas below.

  • Free Storming the Bastille Game
  • Free Homeschool History Cards – French and Indian War
  • 15 Hands-on History Ideas for Kids Studying the French and Indian War
  • Beethoven & The French Revolution Minibook 
  • French Revolution Unit Study + Free Copywork
  • Learn About the Geography of France by Creating A Solar Oven
  • Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time Series Fifth Journey Fun Eiffel Tower
  • 10 Interesting French Crafts And Activities For Kids
  • Facts about France Geography Worksheet

Besides, hands-on activities makes learning stick so be sure to include a few more with this book.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Too, look at more Geronimo Stilton Book crafts.

Geronimo Stilton Book Activities

Next, look at these other crafts to go with the books.

  • The Journey Through Time Book And Knights Armor Engraving Fun Kids Craft
  • Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Time Warp Fun Lost City of Atlantis
  • Race Against Time Build a Fun Greek Water Clock
  • Out Of Time Fun Sir Francis Drake Ship Craft
  • Stilton Journey Through Time Series Fifth Journey Fun Eiffel Tower
  • 10 Things to Learn From The Fun Geronimo Stilton Chapter Books
  • The Fourth Journey Through Time Fun Cleopatra Collar
  • Learn About Mozart The Eight Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Series
  • The Geronimo Stilton Book Fourth Journey Fun Egypt Game
  • Geronimo Stilton Journey Through Time Craft a Fun England Tower Guard
  • Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
  • Down and Out Down Under Make a Fun Edible Coral Reef
  • Field Trip to Niagara Falls Summary And Fun Corn Craft
  • The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time Colosseum Craft
  • The Race Against Time Geronimo Stilton Activities: Fun Edible Spine
  • #2: Back in Time Mayan Craft
  • The Curse of The Cheese Pyramid Barbie Mummy
  • Who Is Geronimo Stilton Rodent Notebooking Page

Now, let’s learn how to make this fun sun king gold medallion.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

I hope you enjoy our journey with Geronimo and also making your very own medallion.

Hot glue is a fun medium for art projects because you can use it for a lot more than just attaching two objects.

It can be put into silicone molds to create shapes that harden once it dries or used free handed like we are going to do today.

How to Make a Sun King Medallion Craft for Kids

Since your child will create their medallion freehanded I am giving you some loose instructions and tips to help them create it.

You will need:

  • Hot glue gun
  • Glue
  • Gold and black paint
  • Plastic bead chain or string
  • Silicone mat

Directions:

Gather all your supplies and don’t forget that silicone mat. It is the best material for peeling off your glue creations and is heat safe!

Your child can create any shape medallion that they would like.

Additionally, they can design their own crest to represent themselves, the family, or they can try to recreate a King Louis sun medallion like this one.

The most important thing is to build up your layers by creating a first layer and letting it cool.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Use toothpicks and craft sticks to try and add a little shaping or detail to the glue when it is partially cooled but not all the way.

But if it’s too liquidly it will just keep pooling.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Then add layer after layer until it is thick and shaped like you want it. We tried to get a general sun shape.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Once the entire thing is completely cooled and hardened, peel it off the silicone and paint it gold with craft paint.

It will probably take 2-3 coats to get good coverage.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

When it is almost dry use a paintbrush to dry brush on some black craft paint to age and patina your medallion, so it looks like an old treasured relic.

Brush off excess, you just need a bit.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Allow the paint to dry fully.

Measure a piece of chain or string to create a necklace that can be slipped on and off over your head.

Geronimo Stilton The Second Journey Through Time Sun King Fun Medallion

Flip the medallion over and hot glue the length of chain or string to finish your necklace.

What do you think?

1 CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: book lists, books, crafts, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, historyspine, homeschoolhistory, medieval homeschool history, middle ages history, world history

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