Hands-On Activities

Free Printable Map of Argentina & A Fun Wood Burning Project

May 11, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Along with a free printable map of Argentina, you are going to enjoy this other map activity, a wood-burning project that can be used to make learning any map fun. Also, look at my page South America Unit Study Resources for more ideas about South America.

This is a fun activity for older kids when they have outgrown simple coloring pages, and the older they are, the more detail you can ask them to show.

This idea can be applied to learning about any country and would make a lovely display hanging to commemorate what your child has learned if you use it for each country that you study, but today our focus is on South America, in the country of Argentina.

Free Printable Map of Argentina & A Fun Wood Burning Project

Argentina is one of the largest countries in the world, stretching across much of southern South America. It’s the eighth-largest country globally and the second-largest in South America after Brazil.

Because it’s so long from north to south, Argentina has a wide variety of climates, from tropical heat in the north to icy glaciers in the south.

The capital city, Buenos Aires, is often called the “Paris of South America” because of its beautiful architecture, wide boulevards, and rich culture.

It’s also the birthplace of the famous tango dance.

BOOKS ABOUT ARGENTINA FOR KIDS

Next, look at these books about Argentina.

We love living books and prefer them when we can find them.

5 Books Set in Argentina or About Argentina

Grab one or two of these books about Argentina to add to your reading day.

On the Pampas

An account of a little girl's idyllic summer at her grandparents' ranch on the pampas of Argentina.

The Magic Bean Tree: A Legend from Argentina

The evil bird who lives on top of the magic tree that grows in the Argentine pampas has the powr to stop the rain, so one summer, a little boy risks everything to save his village from dying of thirst by taking a stand against the powerful bird.

Our World: Argentina

Discover the vibrant sights and sounds of Argentina, from morning light to city night! Snack on medialunas, explore the bustling stalls at la feria, and ride the caballito on the carousel. Even learn words in Spanish with pronunciation guides throughout the story.

Part of the Barefoot Books Our World series with over 200k copies sold
Written by Argentinian author, Aixa Pérez-Prado and Argentinian illustrator, Mariana Ruiz Johnson
Extended endnotes provide more insights into life in Argentina

Abuelo (Spanish Edition)

Arthur Dorros's skillful blend of Spanish and English and Raúl Colón's poignant paintings illuminate how the special bond between an abuelo and a nieto reaches across miles.

Together, a young boy and his abuelo go camping, ride horses, and even confront a mountain lion. Soon, the boy's family moves to the city from the country, away from Abuelo, and it is the boy's memories that help him adjust to his new life.

Fans of Dorros's Papá and Me and Abuela will delight in this bilingual and multigenerational picture book about a special family relationship.

This beautiful picture book blends Spanish and English seamlessly, all at once telling a wonderful story and introducing young readers to both languages. Perfect for bilingual families as well as teachers and families who want to expose their children to multiple languages.

Chucaro: Wild Pony of the Pampa

The world of the Argentine pampa comes to life in this humorous tale of a South American boy determined to tame and ride a wild pony.

Argentina is known for its strong cowboy culture. The “gauchos” (Argentine cowboys) lived on the grassy plains called the pampas and became symbols of freedom and hard work.

It is also known as the home of some of the best beef in the world, traditional meals often include grilled meat called “asado,” which is a big part of family and social life.

Before we begin our project, let’s learn a little more about the places and people of this beautiful country.

FAMOUS FACES OF ARGENTINA

José de San Martín- A national hero who helped lead Argentina, Chile, and Peru to independence from Spain.
Eva Perón- Known as “Evita,” she was beloved for helping the poor and working-class citizens.
Lionel Messi- One of the greatest soccer players of all time and a global sports icon.
Pope Francis- The first pope from South America, born in Buenos Aires.

AMAZING PLACES TO FIND ON YOUR MAP

As your student works on their printable map or wood-burning project, these are must-see places to locate and learn about:

Iguazu Falls- One of the largest and most powerful waterfall systems in the world, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil. It’s made up of over 250 individual waterfalls!

Patagonia- A vast, wild region in southern Argentina filled with mountains, glaciers, and unique wildlife. It’s a dream destination for adventurers.

Andes Mountains- The longest mountain range in the world runs along Argentina’s western edge. It includes the highest mountain in the Americas.

Aconcagua- Standing at nearly 23,000 feet, Aconcagua is the tallest mountain outside of Asia.

Perito Moreno Glacier- A massive glacier that is still growing! Visitors can sometimes see huge chunks of ice break off into the water.

Pampas- Fertile plains where cattle ranching thrives, and gauchos made their mark.

As you create your wood-burned map of Argentina, don’t just focus on the outline; use it as a learning tool. You can:

Connect people to places (for example, Buenos Aires for Pope Francis)
Mark major landmarks like Iguazu Falls or Aconcagua with colored pins
Use different string colors to show regions (mountains, plains, glaciers)
Add small labels or flags for important cities like Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA CRAFT AND ACTIVITY IDEAS

FUN WOOD BURNING ACTIVITY

You will need:

Wood
Wood-burning tool
Carbon paper
Pencil
Map outline

I printed my map in black and white at 200%, and it worked perfectly for my sizing. You may need to experiment with yours a bit.

Place your carbon paper with the darker transfer side face down onto your wood piece. To help keep it straight, I lined it up with the edge of my desk and taped each layer in place using the straight edge as my guide.

Then place your map over it and tape it in place.

Trace the outline with a pencil. You can also mark the capital, trace water, mountains, etc. For our first wood-burning project, we decided to keep it simple, with just the outline, the country name, and the capital marked.

Peel the paper back, leaving the tape on one side so that you can make sure your transfer went through all over. If it’s missing spaces, just simply tape that side back down and go over it again; otherwise, you can remove the paper.

You should have a nice, solid outline.

Heat your wood-burning tool, then, holding it like a pencil, go over all the pencil lines you created. The slower you go, the deeper and darker your wood burn will be. You can use a piece of scrap wood to practice on and find out what the best method for you is. Make sure you do not touch any of the metal parts.

Continue until everything has been filled in and is as dark and as thick as you wish

Finish it up by burning Argentina onto the wood plaque to complete your map.

Now, how to grab the free country reports. This is a subscriber freebie.

HOW TO GET THE FREE 9 COUNTRY MAP REPORTS FOR SOUTH AMERICA (INCLUDING ARGENTINA)

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

The 9 country reports you get in this one download are Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chili, Ecuador, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela.

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!

The Roaring Twenties Timeline & How To Make A Flapper Headband

May 6, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Using the roaring twenties timeline helps to pinpoint important events in this fascinating decade, and adding a hands-on flapper headband gives you a hands-on activity that helps bring the topic to life.

The 1920s, often called the Roaring Twenties, were a decade full of excitement, change, and creativity.

After the hardships of World War I, people were ready to celebrate life- music, fashion, and technology all evolved, shaping a culture that still influences us today.

The Roaring Twenties Timeline & How To Make A Flapper Headband

I grabbed just a few supplies from the craft store, and we were able to make this beautiful headband that perfectly highlights this time period and can also be used as part of a great costume for multiple occasions.

But even though the decade is often remembered for music, fashion, and fun, it’s important to take a look at the whole picture.

The 1920s were filled with both progress and conflict. Many exciting things were happening at the same time that serious struggles were shaping the future of the United States.

BOOKS SET IN OR ABOUT EVENTS IN THE 1920s FOR KIDS

Next, look at some books to add to your home library or use for a unit study.

9 Books Set in or About Events of the 1920s

In the 1920s, cars became more common and music in the 1920s was all about jazz. Dances like the Charleston became super popular. One of the strangest laws of the 1920s was called Prohibition. It made it illegal to make or sell alcohol. Add some of the books set in 1920s or about the events of 1920s.

The Great Gatsby - Reader's Library Classic

Extravagant rumors abound of a man named Jay Gatsby who has newly arrived to the coastline of a section of Long Island known colloquially as West Egg. Long into the night, the mysterious Gatsby threw lavish parties at his sprawling estate, but when alone, Gatsby could be found staring longingly at a solitary green light across the dark water. For all Gatsby has attained in his life, that green light represents all that he lost.The greatest story to encapsulate the roaring twenties, The Great Gatsby follows the eventful lives of the denizens from East and West Egg in this timeless classic of American literature.

The Wind Boy

As evenings gather around the hearth and stories begin to unfold, the boundary between the visible and the unseen slowly softens. Beyond the ordinary world lies the Clear Land—where the Wind Boy, a radiant companion, draws near to those who are ready to see with more than their eyes. And through friendship, trust, and quiet courage, the children begin to discover that what is most real is not always what is most easily seen. In this early landmark of spiritually imaginative children’s fiction, Ethel Cook Eliot offers a tender and enduring insight: the most precious gifts in life cannot be bought—they are received.

Ella's Big Chance

The classic story of Cinderella gains even more charm in this glamorous retelling by world-famous picture book writer and illustrator Shirley Hughes.Ella Cinders loves helping her father in his dress shop and laughing with her friend Buttons, the store's delivery boy. Then comes the terrible day when her father remarries and everything changes. Her stepmother makes her sew in the dreary basement. Her stepsisters mock her shabby dress. And to top it off, the new Mrs. Cinders forbids Ella to attend the duke's grand ball. Heartbroken, Ella is sure that her life will never be what she dreamed. But with the help of a fairy godmother and some sparkling courage of her own, this Cinderella discovers that dreams can come true in the most unexpected of ways.Join Ella amidst the dazzle and fashion of the roaring twenties as she takes happily ever after into her own hands!

Where the Red Fern Grows

Set in the 1920s, Billy has long dreamt of owning not one, but two, dogs. So when he’s finally able to save up enough money for two pups to call his own—Old Dan and Little Ann—he’s ecstatic. It doesn’t matter that times are tough; together they’ll roam the hills of the Ozarks.Soon Billy and his hounds become the finest hunting team in the valley. Stories of their great achievements spread throughout the region, and the combination of Old Dan’s brawn, Little Ann’s brains, and Billy’s sheer will seems unbeatable. But tragedy awaits these determined hunters—now friends—and Billy learns that hope can grow out of despair, and that the seeds of the future can come from the scars of the past.

And Now, a Word from Our Sponsor: The Story of a Roaring 20's Girl (Her Story)

Fran Parker enters a radio contest and wins a chance to fly in an airplane

The Wild Children

Set in the 1920s. Alex's parents are killed during the Bolshevik Revolution and he is forced to join a gang of homeless, criminal children for survival, eventually winning freedom and decency for himself and his "family" of waifs.

Radio Rescue

Back in 1923, a long-distance telephone call took hours to place, and overseas calls weren't possible at all. But a new invention, called wireless radio, permitted instant communication over long distances. A young boy, itching to get involved, buys a secondhand receiver and earphones, and studies hard to learn Morse code so that he can pass the test to qualify as an amateur radio operator and get his own station: 2AZK. Its fun talking with people all over the world just by tapping on his telegraph key (and readers can tap along - there's Morse code to follow in the pictures). Then one night he picks up a distress signal from Florida -- family stranded in flood -- and uses his skill for something more important. Based on the author's father's experiences as a young ham operator in the 1920s, Radio Rescue is an exciting story of a moment in technological history.

YOUNG FOLKS' PICTURE HISTORY OF MUSIC (COMPLETE WITH PICTURES)

A chronological history of music with a pack of pictures to paste in. Written by James Francis Cooke to educate youths on the history of music, musicians, and musical instruments, and to hopefully get those same youths interested or more interested in music.

Celeste's Harlem Renaissance

In 1921 when Celeste Lassiter Massey is forced to live with her actress Aunt Valentina in Harlem, she is not thrilled to trade her friends and comfortable North Carolina for scary, big-city life. While Celeste experiences the Harlem Renaissance in full swing, she sees as much grit as glamour. A passionate writer, talented violinist, and aspiring doctor, she eventually faces a choice between ambition and loyalty, roots and horizons. The decision will change her forever.

People disagreed over values, especially when it came to religion, education, and personal freedom.

One well-known example is the Scopes Trial, where a teacher was put on trial for teaching evolution in school. It became a national debate about science and faith.

ABOUT THE 1920s

There were also strong efforts to limit immigration during this time. Laws were passed to reduce the number of people entering the country, especially from southern and eastern Europe.

At the same time, the Ku Klux Klan grew in power, promoting fear and discrimination against different groups.

Prohibition was a nationwide ban on the production and sale of alcohol that lasted from 1920 to 1933, created by the Eighteenth Amendment.

Supporters believed it would reduce crime and improve family life, but it often had the opposite effect.

Illegal bars called speakeasies became popular, and bootleggers secretly made and sold alcohol.

This underground activity helped organized crime grow quickly, making Prohibition one of the most controversial experiments in American history.

In 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution gave women the right to vote, opening the door to greater freedom and opportunity.

At the same time, new inventions like radios and automobiles made life faster and more connected.

People listened to music in their homes, went to movie theaters, and danced the night away.

THE ROARING TWENTIES TIMELINE

Here is a simple look at some of the events that have changed our world in many ways.

1920

The 19th Amendment gives women the right to vote.

Prohibition in the United States begins (alcohol is banned).

1921–1924

Jazz music spreads across the country, and musicians like Louis Armstrong rise to fame

Radios became popular in homes.

1925

The Great Gatsby was published, and the novel reflects the wealth, parties, and challenges of the era.

1927

The Jazz Singer becomes the first successful “talking movie.”

1928

The economy is booming, and many people invest in the stock market.

1929

The Stock Market Crash of 1929 ended the decade’s prosperity.

The Great Depression begins.

ROARING 20’S RESOURCES

A must-read for your teen in a roaring 20’s unit is, of course, The Great Gatsby, a classic that paints a great picture of life in those times. And here is a self-paced online language arts course – The Great Gatsby Online Book Club ~ American Classic Literature Series for Teens to add to your study.

Check out this Ted-Ed video on YouTube- What happened when the United States banned alcohol – Rod Phillips

Here is a list of some big movies of the 1920’s.

Listen to jazz great Louis Armstrong play a soulful sax in one of his 1920’s hits.

EASY FLAPPER HEADBAND CRAFT

Today, our craft will focus on flappers, young women who challenged traditional expectations.

They wore shorter dresses, styled their hair in bobs, and loved dancing to jazz music.

Flapper headbands, often decorated with feathers, beads, and jewels, became iconic accessories representing fun and freedom. You can keep it simple or get a little extravagant with it.

To make it more than just a simple craft but a learning experience, you can…

Play jazz music while working
Practice a few basic dance steps inspired by the Charleston
Have kids dress up and “step into” the 1920s

You will need:

Elastic headband or ribbon
Feathers
Sequins, beads, or a brooch
Felt or fabric scrap
Glue
Scissors

First, wrap the ribbon or elastic around the head to ensure a comfortable fit.

Hot glue the ends together, just slightly overlapping.

Cut a small oval or circle from the felt. This will hold your decorations.

Glue feathers and fan them out to create volume.

Cut a second piece of felt and cover the tips of the feathers.

Glue sequins, beads, or rhinestones onto the felt piece.

Attach the feather to the top or side of the felt piece for a classic flapper look using hot glue, and glue right over the seam.

Allow everything to dry.

How To Draw A Toad

May 2, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a how to draw a toad lesson. Also, look at my Toads – Amphibians page.

Toads are some of the most fascinating (and often misunderstood) creatures in the animal kingdom. While many people think of them as simply “warty frogs,” toads are actually a special group of amphibians.

They have unique features, behaviors, and play an important role in nature.

Learning about toads is a great way to explore biology, ecosystems, and even a little bit of art! Toads don’t cause warts; that’s just a myth.

Many toads can inflate their bodies to look bigger when threatened. Some species can live for 10 years or more in the wild.

Toads use their sticky tongues to catch prey in a split second and they don’t drink water as we do; they absorb it through their skin.

BOOKS ABOUT TOADS AND FROGS FOR KIDS

Next, add these books to your home library.

We prefer living books when we can find them and then add reference books to feed our curiosity of more facts.

11 Frog & Toad Unit Study Resources

Add a book or two or some fun hands-on resources to your unit study.

The Frog (Animal Lives)

Superbly detailed drawings capture the elusive frog in its watery realm, as it captures its prey with a sticky tongue, feeds its young, and leaps from place to place to escape from predators.

Frogs and toads;

Tale of a tadpole

The natural world doesn't work the way fairy tales do, but it still has its fair share of enchantments. With text and pictures that are both scientifically accurate and totally true to the comedies of family life, this is a happily-ever-after tale of unexpected transformations

A Toad for Tuesday 50th Anniversary Edition

Just in time for its 50th anniversary, this beloved classic tale of adventure, compassion, and friendship has been remade for a new generation of young readers, including text revisions and fully colorized original illustration on the cover. A favorite chapter book is back, for read aloud or read alone.

While on a journey to visit his aunt, Warton the Toad is captured by a surly owl who announces plans to eat Warton for his birthday dinner on the upcoming Tuesday. As he awaits his fate, Warton works gamely to make his remaining days as pleasant as possible while he also seeks some way to escape and tries to convince the owl to let him go.

Naturally, Warton and Owl talk. But what the pair don't realize is how quickly even the oddest of friendships may form.

Rainforest Frogs

Rainforest Frogs Haiku by Caley Vickerman Illustrated by Mark Lerer Foreword by Franco Andreone Designed and Edited by Susan Newman Frogs Are Green, Inc is proud to announce… Rainforest Frogs Order your copy now! Free shipping in the USA if you order directly from us! $11.95 | 52 pages softcover | Full color Rainforest Frogs profiles ten exotic and endangered amphibian species. Table of Contents Foreword by Franco Andreone Blue Poison Dart frog Amazon Milk frog Yellow-Banded Poison Dart frog Northern Glass frog Tiger’s Tree frog Golden Mantella Red-Eyed Tree frog Flat-Head Bromeliad Tree frog Tiger-Leg Monkey Tree frog Rabbs Fringe-Limbed Tree frog (Toughie)

Frog (Life Cycle of a . . .)

Do tadpoles have legs? Why do frogs live in water? How do frogs catch food? Explaining concepts through stunning photographs and simple text, 'Life Cycle of a Frog' takes an in-depth look at this familiar but fascinating animal.

Climbing Tree Frogs (Pull Ahead Books)

Introduces the physical characteristics, behavior, and habitats of North American tree frogs

Frogs

How far can frogs jump? Why do their eggs look slimy? Answer these questions and many more in this illustrated introduction to amphibians, and learn about the unique role frogs play in the environment. With her signature bright, well-labeled diagrams and simple text, Gail Gibbons introduces the habitat and life cycles of frogs, and gives a brief overview of common frog behaviors. Important vocabulary is introduced, defined, and reinforced with kid-friendly language and clear illustrations—plus a page of intriguing frog trivia.

Frog & Toad The Complete Collection

This collection brings together all of Arnold Lobel’s engaging, warm and funny stories about Frog and Toad, and features a special foreword by Julia Donaldson. A collectable classic treasury that every child should read and own. Julia Donaldson says “I hugely admire and envy Arnold Lobel; he is my hero”. Once upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toad… From writing letters to going swimming, telling stories to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other – just as best friends should be.

Frog Growth Cycle

This Forg life cycle set is a fun for children with an interest in insects and nature explore. And also it is a great teaching and learning tool for homeschoolers and preschoolers teaching.

Anatomy Lab Soft Cover Frog Dissection Guide Book

Fully Illustrated Guide: Each study guide is fully illustrated and conveys the complete dissection through illustration.

Visualize the Steps: the dissection guides depict anatomically correct step-by-step procedural illustrations helping the student visualize key organs and anatomy aiding in the overall dissection process.

Toads belong to the amphibian family Bufonidae, often called the “true toads.”

WHAT IS A TOAD

Unlike frogs, toads usually have dry, bumpy skin and shorter legs. This means they tend to walk or hop rather than make long jumps.

Dry, bumpy skin instead of smooth, moist skin
Shorter back legs, making them less agile jumpers
Parotoid glands behind their eyes that can release toxins to scare off predators
Stocky bodies built for life on land

Toad skin isn’t just for protection—it’s one of the most important parts of their body. Unlike humans, toads don’t rely only on lungs to breathe. They also absorb oxygen through their skin in a process related to cutaneous respiration.

Their skin must stay slightly moist for this to work, which is why toads prefer damp environments. Even though their skin looks dry, it actually has a thin layer of moisture.

Those bumps you see are glands. Some produce mucus to keep the skin healthy, while others, like the parotid glands, produce toxins to defend against predators.

Toads are found almost everywhere in the world except Antarctica. They thrive in:

Forests
Grasslands
Gardens and backyards
Near ponds, streams, and wetlands

In places like the United States, you might find toads hiding under rocks, logs, or even in flower beds. They are mostly nocturnal, meaning they come out at night to hunt.

WHAT DO TOADS EAT

Toads are carnivores and excellent hunters. Their diet includes:

Insects (beetles, ants, flies)
Worms
Spiders
Small snails

They use their long, sticky tongues to snap up prey in milliseconds. Interestingly, toads don’t chew their food; they swallow it whole.

A toad’s eyesight is specially adapted to detect movement, which means they are more likely to catch something that is moving than something still.

Even though toads have toxins, they still have predators, including snakes, birds, and raccoons

To survive, toads use several clever defenses:

Camouflage: Their brown and green colors help them blend into their surroundings
Inflating their bodies: Makes them look too big to swallow
Toxins: Their skin can taste bad or even be harmful to predators

Some predators have learned to avoid the toxic parts and still eat the rest; nature always finds a way.

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOADS

American Toad- This common toad is found throughout North America. It has brown, bumpy skin and a musical trill call. It’s often spotted in backyards and gardens.

Cane Toad– Originally from Central and South America, this large toad has become famous (and sometimes problematic) in places like Australia. It can grow quite big and produces strong toxins to defend itself.

Fire-Bellied Toad- These small toads are known for their bright orange or red bellies. When threatened, they flip over to show their warning colors—a behavior called the “unken reflex.”

Colorado River Toad- One of the largest toads in North America, this species lives in desert regions. It contains potent toxins and is primarily active during warm, rainy nights.

Toads are an important part of the ecosystem. They help control insect populations and serve as food for birds, snakes, and other animals. Because their skin is sensitive to pollution, scientists often study amphibians like toads to assess environmental health.

If toads begin to disappear from an area, it can be a warning sign that something is wrong in that ecosystem.

TOAD CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES

Next, add more toad crafts and activities.

HOW TO DRAW A TOAD

You will need:

Paper
Sharpened pencils
Colored pencils
Black fineline pen
Eraser

Don’t worry about making every line perfect. We can use our eraser, and it will also be colored in, giving us a beautiful final draft.

Start with a long curved line for the back. Toads are squat and round, so keep your shapes low and wide.

Next, draw a line that curves inward slightly to create the mouth.

Complete the bottom part of the mouth and throat with a curved line.

Draw the front bent legs, toads have 4 fingers on the front and 5 on the back.

Drawbent legs on each side of the back. The back legs should be thicker, while the front legs are smaller and more delicate.

Connect your shapes with a rounded belly and smooth out the outline. Make the back slightly bumpy to show texture. Erase and redraw as needed to create natural lines without sharp edges.

Draw an eye on the side, and just a hint of the second one on the other. Make slits going horizontally for the center.

Add a line for the mouth and tiny nostrils near the eyes.

Now you can begin to erase your darkest lines. And color the top portion a darker green.

Use a lighter green for the underside, and color in the eyes a deep gold yellow.

Use a third, even darker green to make bumps and spots.

Give your toad some earth to stand on by shading in dirt, leaf litter, and grass.

Finish your picture off by outlining the toad with a fine-line black pen.

World War I Artifacts For Kids & Easy Parachute Jumper Craft

April 26, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Studying World War 1 artifacts is a great way to learn about this important time in history.

World War I, often called “The Great War,” lasted from 1914 to 1918 and changed the world in many ways.

While it can feel like a distant and complicated topic, one of the best ways to make history come alive for kids is by exploring real-life artifacts, objects that people used during that time. These items tell stories about soldiers, families, and daily life during the war.

World War I Artifacts For Kids & Easy Parachute Jumper Craft

While parachutes didn’t really become widely used by the US until the last year of the war, they have come to be a symbol of it nonetheless.

Parachutes became important for pilots and later soldiers, helping them safely escape from aircraft. This simple craft demonstrates how air resistance slows objects down, just like real parachutes used in aviation.

WORLD WAR I BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, add some of these books to your home library.

We prefer living books when we can find them.

7 World War I Books for Kids

Add some of these books about World War I to your home library.

Lines of Courage

Jennifer A. Nielsen, author of A Night Divided and Rescue, artfully weaves together the stories of five kids living through World War I who each hold the key to each other’s futures... if they are lucky -- and brave -- enough to find each other.

World War I stretches its cruel fingers across Europe, where five kids feel war's scarcity and challenges in different ways.

Felix, from Austria-Hungary, wants the courage to fight against Jewish deportations before his own family can be taken.

Kara, from Britain, wants to be a Red Cross nurse.

Juliette, of France, hopes her family can remain knitted together in the face of the war's longest battle.

Elsa, from Germany, hopes her homing pigeon might one day bring her a friend among the chaos.

And Dimitri, of Russia, wants only to survive the front, where he's been sent with no weapon.

None of them will find exactly what they want. But the winds of fate may cross their paths to give each of them just what they need.

Winnie's Great War

Here is a heartwarming imagining of the real journey undertaken by the extraordinary bear who inspired Winnie-the-Pooh. From her early days with her mama in the Canadian forest, to her remarkable travels with the Veterinary Corps across the country and overseas, and all the way to the London Zoo where she met Christopher Robin Milne and inspired the creation of the world's most famous bear, Winnie is on a great war adventure. This beautifully told story is a triumphant blending of deep research and magnificent imagination. Infused with Sophie Blackall's irresistible renderings of an endearing bear, the book is also woven through with entries from Captain Harry Colebourn's real wartime diaries and contains a selection of artifacts from the Colebourn Family Archives. The result is a one-of-a-kind exploration into the realities of war, the meaning of courage, and the indelible power of friendship, all told through the historic adventures of one extraordinary bear.

Stubby the War Dog: The True Story of World War I's Bravest Dog

Move over, Rin Tin Tin. Here comes Sgt. Stubby! That German shepherd star of the silver screen may have been born behind enemy lines during World War I, but Stubby, the stump-tailed terrier, worked behind enemy lines, and gained military honors along the way. Private Robert Conroy casually adopted the orphan pup while attending basic training on the campus of Yale University in 1917. The Connecticut volunteer never imagined that his stray dog would become a war hero. He just liked the little guy. When Conroy's unit shipped out for France, he smuggled his new friend aboard. By the time Stubby encountered Conroy's commanding officer, the dog had perfected his right-paw salute. Charmed, the CO awarded Stubby mascot status and sent him along with Conroy's unit to the Western Front. Stubby's brave deeds earned him a place in history and in the Smithsonian Institution where his stuffed body can still be seen. Almost 100 years later, Stubby's great deeds and brave heart make him an animal hero to fall in love with and treasure all over again.

Rilla of Ingleside

The novel follows the story of Anne's youngest daughter, Rilla, as she grapples with the impact of World War I on her quiet Canadian town. Rilla joins the war effort as a volunteer nurse and experiences the heartache of war, as well as the courage of her friends and family. The novel explores themes of courage, love, and loss, as Rilla and her family strive to find peace and hope in a time of great darkness.

Adventures in Time The First World War.

Take a journey to a vanished world with the ADVENTURES IN TIME series - stories so exciting you won't believe they're all true'The whistles blew, the cheers went up, and thousands of men were scrambling up into the rolling fields of No Man's Land . . .'Travel back in time to the First World War, as historian Dominic Sandbrook takes us from the soaring heights of an aeroplane cockpit to the desperate depths of the enemy trenches. We are plunged first hand into a conflict like no other as, amid the greatest clash of empires ever known, the future of the world hangs in the balance...The Adventures in Time series brings the past alive for twenty-first century children. These stories are every bit as exciting as those of Harry Potter or Matilda Wormwood. The only difference is they actually happened...

War Horse (Scholastic Gold)

It is 1914, and Joey, a farm horse, is sold to the army and thrust into the midst of World War I on the Western Front. When Joey is dragged away, his heart aches for Albert, the farmer's son he is forced to leave behind.

In the army the beautiful red-bay horse is trained to charge the enemy, drag heavy artillery, and carry wounded soldiers not much older than Albert off the battlefields. Amongst the clamoring of guns, and while plodding through the cold mud, Joey wonders if the war will ever end. And if it does, will he ever find Albert again?

The World at War

Travel through the tumultuous years of World War I: from the rise of the new German Empire to the signing of the peace treaty. Walk alongside the key players and nations that fought across diverse battlefronts, from the trenches of Verdun to the shores of Gallipoli.See the maps redrawn and read about the human experiences that reshaped Europe and paved the way for a new world.

Artifacts are objects made or used by people in the past.

WHAT ARE ARTIFACTS

They can be anything from tools and clothing to letters and photographs. When we study artifacts from World War I, we get a glimpse into what life was like over 100 years ago.

Soldier Helmets

During World War I, soldiers needed protection from shrapnel and debris. Different countries designed their own helmets.

The British wore the Brodie helmet, which looked like a shallow bowl, while German soldiers often wore the Pickelhaube, a helmet with a spike on top (early in the war). These helmets show how quickly technology had to improve to keep soldiers safe.

LETTERS FROM SOLDIERS

Before phones and email, soldiers wrote letters home to their families. These letters are some of the most meaningful artifacts we have.

They tell us about the emotions soldiers felt—hope, fear, loneliness, and love. Reading these letters helps kids understand that history is about real people, not just dates and battles.

Military Gear and Uniforms

Soldiers carried heavy packs filled with gear like canteens, mess kits, blankets, and sometimes gas masks. Their uniforms were designed for tough conditions in muddy trenches.

Looking at these items helps kids imagine what daily life was like for a soldier.

Medals and Badges

Medals were awarded for bravery, service, and sacrifice. Each medal has a story behind it. Some were given for acts of heroism, while others were recognized for time served.

These artifacts remind us of the courage shown during difficult times.

Propaganda Posters

While you might think only the soldiers themselves were affected by WWI, life at home was also deeply affected by World War I. Families had to make sacrifices to support the war effort.

One important artifact from this time ispropaganda posters- bright, eye-catching signs that encouraged people to help in different ways.

Some posters asked families to grow their own food in “victory gardens,” while others reminded people to conserve supplies like sugar, meat, and wheat.

Children played a role, too. They helped collect scrap metal, saved food, and even planted gardens. Women took on new jobs, working in factories to produce uniforms, ammunition, and medical supplies.

These changes were a big shift from daily life before the war and show how everyone contributed, not just soldiers.

WORLD WAR 1 HANDS ON IDEAS

This WWII idea still goes hand in hand with WWI ideas, How to Make an Easy Anderson Shelter World War II Activity Craft.
Learn How to make a World War 1 helmet.
Try this World War 1 Word Search to familiarize your child with WWI terminology.
World War I & II History Toys For Kids that Make Learning Exciting

Now it’s time to bring history to life with a fun and simple activity.

EASY PARACHUTE JUMPER CRAFT

While parachutes were still developing during World War I, they became more widely used shortly after. This craft introduces the basic idea of how parachutes work while giving kids a hands-on experience.

I found this cool articulated soldier toy at Dollar Tree and thought it was perfect for this project, but you can use a wooden clothespin for weight, a LEGO minifigure, or any other little figure you have.

You will need:

Plastic grocery bag or lightweight fabric
String (4 equal pieces)
Small toy figure or clothespin
Scissors
Tape

Cut a large square or circle from the plastic bag; 12×12 is a good, manageable size. This will be your parachute canopy.

Cut four equal pieces of string 12” long.

Tape one string to each corner of the parachute.

Gather the loose ends of the strings and tie them to your small toy or clothespin. Try to keep the strings as close to the same length as possible. Securing them on the toy soldiers’ arms like this gives you a good balance.

To launch your parachute, pinch the top of the bag and pull it up to a point like this.

Fold the bag in half, and then fold the strings along the bag.

Toss it up into the air and watch it float down.

If your figure becomes tangled, just carefully untangle and try again; you will get the hang of it quickly enough.

Encourage kids to experiment: What happens if you make the parachute bigger or smaller? What if you change the weight of the jumper? Use different materials for the parachute? These questions turn a simple craft and history lesson into a fun science investigation.

Fascinating Istanbul Facts For Kids & Simple Layered Art Project

April 20, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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Here are 10 incredible Istanbul facts for kids, as well as a fun layered paper craft highlighting the Hagia Sophia and the skyline of Istanbul. Also, look at my post Mini Unit Study: Geography Quest about The Country of Turkey.

You can read the facts or stories about Istanbul or Turkey while your child cuts, colors, and glues together their version of the magnificent skyline.

Fascinating Istanbul Facts For Kids & Simple Layered Art Project

I also have some additional craft ideas to round out your theme, and a deeper dive into some of the buildings they will see.

The first thing we did was search the internet for the Istanbul skyline and found a couple of beautiful options.

We printed those out and used them as our inspiration for color, texture, and building details.

BOOKS ABOUT TURKEY THE COUNTRY FOR KIDS

First, look at these books about Turkey facts for kids.

11 Books About the Country of Turkey

Add these books to your reading day or to a unit study to learn about the fascinating country of Turkey.

Turkey: The Complete History for Kids: Real Stories That Inspire Courage, Kindness, and Curiosity

Every chapter is crafted to spark wonder. Children will meet the first people of Anatolia, explore the mysteries of Troy, walk through ancient Greek and Roman cities, witness the rise of the Byzantines, follow the journeys of the Seljuks and the Ottomans, and watch Turkey transform into a modern republic led by inspiring figures like Atatürk. Through t all, young readers learn how courage, kindness, and curiosity shaped an entire region.This book is not just about what happened. It shows kids why history matters and how every moment carries a lesson worth remembering. Packed with rich storytelling, fun facts, and easy-to-understand explanations, it is perfect for curious minds between 7 and 13 who love to explore, ask questions, and discover how the world came to be.

Image for The Big Book of Turkey Facts: An Educational Country Travel Picture Book for Kids about History, Destination Places, Animals and Many More

The Big Book of Turkey Facts: An Educational Country Travel Picture Book for Kids about History, Destination Places, Animals and Many More

Did you know that Turkey is the only country in the world that exists on two continents, Europe and Asia? The Bosphorus Strait in Istanbul divides the city and the country into two parts, with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia.If this topic interests you and your little one then get ready for some fun and giggles.It is hard to find the time to teach your child about the world around them. Luckily, in 50 Facts About Turkey, we've made it easy. Our book contains a diverse selection of the most interesting facts about Turkey that will provide your child with hours of bonding and exploring.

Turkey (Countries)

An introduction to the history, geography, plants and animals, people, economy, cities, transportation, government, holidays and festivals, and culture of Turkey.

Song of the Old City

This lyrical, whimsical picture book, set in the old city of Istanbul, celebrates kindness and generosity of spirit.Follow one little girl on her busy day through the old city of Istanbul--from the Galata bridge to the Grand Bazaar--as the city opens its arms to her. All along the way, the generous people she meets share many gifts with her: sesame rounds, hot tea, a boat ride, rose candy, pomegranate juice, even a scrub in a Turkish bath! But she doesn't just keep the gifts for herself. At every turn, she finds a way to share what has been given to her and pass it on so others can enjoy it too.

Turkey (Our Global Village Series)

Bring the world a little closer with these multicultural books. An excellent way for students to appreciate and learn cultural diversity in an exciting hands-on format. Each book explores the history, language, holidays, festivals, customs, legends, foods, creative arts, lifestyles, and games of the title country. A creative alternative to student research reports and a time-saver for teachers since the activities and resource material are contained in one book.

The Hungry Coat: A Tale from Turkey

Once upon a time in Turkey there lived a funny, little wise man named Nasrettin Hoca. He wore a huge, white turban and a worn-out coat made of patches upon patches. Riding about on his little gray donkey, he liked to help whomever he could.A friend to all, Nasrettin is a popular figure. But when he is suddenly ignored at a friend's banquet, he realizes it is his patchwork coat that is turning people away from him. He leaves the party and returns later, wearing a brand-new coat. Now Nasrettin is warmly welcomed. But instead of eating the delicious foods placed before him, he feeds them to his coat!How Nasrettin Hoca teaches his friends a lesson about appearances is the heart of this hilarious and clever story. With good humor and luminous illustrations inspired by traditional Turkish paintings, Demi brings to life Turkey's most famous folk hero and imparts a timeless tale with a moral that will resonate with readers everywhere.

DK Eyewitness Istanbul (Travel Guide)

DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Istanbul will lead you straight to the best attractions this city has to offer. Explore the must-see Hagia Sophia, take in the beauty of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, and don't miss out on the incredible street food.

Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Istanbul.

• Detailed itineraries and "don't-miss" destination highlights at a glance.

• Illustrated cutaway 3-D drawings of important sights.

I See the Sun in Turkey (7)

A day in the life of a child in Turkey told from the child’s point of view. I See the Sun in Turkey is one of the books in the multiple award-winning I See the Sun in... series of bi-lingual picture books, each focused on one country and one day in the life of one child with a story told from the child’s perspective. I See the Sun in Turkey provides a unique introduction to the culture, family life and language of Turkey in a way that is age-appropriate and sensitive to the current culture and circumstances without becoming political. As with the other books in the series, the author has spent a considerable amount of time in Turkey, not merely as a tourist, but immersed in the environment and living with families who have opened their homes and their hearts to her. Includes facts about the country and a glossary for extended learning. Written in English and translated into Turkish.

Nearly Nonsense: Hoja Tales from Turkey

Nasrudin Hoja was a mullah (teacher) in Turkey. He was a busy man he worked in a vineyard, gave sermons at the mosque, and was sometimes even a judge. He did all of this with a nagging wife, a constant stream of uninvited visitors, and many animals. Although Hoja’s life wasn’t easy, his heart was always light and his observations about life held a witty twist. For instance, when his donkey got lost, his neighbors offered sympathy, but Hoja found the bright side: “Imagine if I were riding the donkey at the time. I’d be lost too!”Though the ten Hoja stories presented by Rina Singh and richly illustrated by Farida Zaman are funny, each one contains such insight into human nature that Sufi teachers use them to illustrate their teachings. Traditional Turkish Hoja stories are much-loved throughout Asia, and Nearly Nonsense brings them to a North American readership sure to enjoy them and, through laughter, to learn from them.

On Two Feet and Wings

He is in a foreign country, he is alone, and he is just a boy...Abbas Kazerooni is not yet ten, but he’s suddenly forced to leave his parents, his friends―his entire world―and flee Tehran. The Iran-Iraq war is at its bloodiest, and the Ayatollahs who rule Iran have reduced the recruitment age for the army. If Abbas doesn’t escape, it’s almost certain that he will be drafted and die fighting for a regime that has stripped his family of all they have.

On his own in the strange, often frightening city of Istanbul, Abbas grows up fast―with little more than his wits to guide him. He must conquer difficult things: how to live on his own, how to navigate a foreign city and culture when he doesn’t speak the language, and, most importantly, how to judge who is a friend and who is an enemy. Facing the unexpected as well as the everyday challenges of life on his own, Abbas walks a tightrope of survival―yearning to please the demanding father he has left behind, yet relishing his new found independence.

A Day in Istanbul: A Young Explorer Travel Guide to Istanbul (City Explorer)

Right away, Elena discovers how amazing Istanbul is! The Galata Tower, bazaar shopping, and meat roasting… There are exciting landmarks and delicious treats around every corner. If she gets confused, fact-checking guru Rosa is there to provide insight and guidance. You can’t find a better world-traveling team!

Now, let’s get into some of those facts about this beautiful city.

FASCINATING ISTANBUL FACTS

Istanbul sits on two continents- Europe and Asia.
Istanbul is in the country of Turkey.
Long ago, it was called Byzantium and later Constantinople.
It was once the capital of two powerful empires: the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire.
A famous waterway called the Bosphorus Strait runs through the city and separates Europe from Asia.
One of the most famous buildings is the Hagia Sophia, which has been a church, a mosque, and now a museum/mosque. It is over 1,400 years old.
The Hagia Sophia has hidden Christian mosaics that were covered for hundreds of years when it became a mosque, and later uncovered, so today, it’s one of the only places in the world where you can see Christian and Islamic art in the same building
Another beautiful building is the Blue Mosque, known for its six tall towers called minarets.
Istanbul is full of markets, including the Grand Bazaar, where people have shopped for hundreds of years.
The city has over 15 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the world.

Then, look at these fun facts about Istanbul’s skyline and The Hagia Sophia.

Observing The Istanbul Skyline

One thing I noticed while observing the skyline is that flat roofs in Istanbul are very common, and there are a few simple reasons:

Weather- Istanbul doesn’t get a lot of heavy snow most years, so steep roofs aren’t as necessary as in colder places.

Extra Space- Flat roofs act like an extra room! Families sometimes use them to: dry clothes, sit and relax, grow plants

Building Style- This style comes from older Middle Eastern and Mediterranean traditions, where flat roofs were practical and easy to build.

The next thing that I noticed was that throughout the city, there were many domes. The domes are one of the most beautiful and recognizable parts of Istanbul’s skyline, and again there are several reasons.

Religious Design- Many domes are on mosques. In Islamic architecture, domes help create a large, open prayer space inside.

Symbolism- Domes often represent the sky or heaven, making them special for worship.Engineering Strength- Domes are strong and can cover big spaces without lots of columns

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE HAGIA SOPHIA

Hagia Sophia (pronounced AH-ya SO-fee-ah) means “Holy Wisdom.” It is a massive, beautiful building in Istanbul known for its huge dome, colorful mosaics, and long history.

Hagia Sophia has changed roles several times:

Church (537 AD): It was first built as a Christian church by Emperor Justinian I of the Byzantine Empire.

Mosque (1453): When the Ottomans took over the city, it became a mosque. They added minarets (tall towers) and Islamic decorations.

Museum (1935): It was later turned into a museum so people from all over the world could visit.

Mosque Again (2020): Today, it is once again used as a mosque.

For nearly 1,000 years, it was the largest dome in the world. The design was so impressive that it inspired other buildings, including the Blue Mosque.

Inside, you can see a mix of Christian and Islamic art:

Mosaics: Tiny pieces of glass and stone form pictures..

Calligraphy: Large round panels display beautiful Arabic writing with names important in Islam.

Marble Columns: Some were brought from ancient temples.

Next, look at these hands-on crafts about Istanbul and the country of Turkey.

MORE ISTANBUL AND TURKEY CRAFT IDEAS FOR KIDS

While you are taking a virtual tour of Turkey try out some of these other cool activities

Finally, look at how to make this fun layered art project.

SIMPLE LAYERED ART CRAFT

You will need:

Construction paper
Colored pencils/crayons
Markers
Scissors
Glue stick
Double-sided mounting tape

Start with a blue piece of construction paper for the sky in the background.

Tear pieces of white paper for clouds and glue down into place on the top half.

Make a simple drawing of the Hagia Sophia and cut it out, including the minarets (tall skinny towers).

Add some color and detail.

Cut various squares and rectangles for buildings from different colors, leaving the roofs mostly flat.

Draw roofs, windows, and other details.

Cut out a few domed buildings.

Glue the Hagia Sophia down onto the paper in the back.

Layer your buildings on and around it, but don’t glue them down yet. Once you are happy with your design, remove all but 3 or 4 buildings.

Add a couple of pieces of mounting tape or small squares of cardboard to the back to raise them off the page and make it more dimensional.

Gather 3 or 4 more buildings and place 2 layers of mounting tape on the back and stick into place, moving down the page to cover more space.

Repeat with the last layer, this time adding 3 layers of mounting tape so that the buildings closest to the page seem to pop off the page.

Finally, cut some small bunches of green to give your city some natural life and tuck them in and around buildings.

Hands-On Activities

BOOKS ABOUT ARGENTINA FOR KIDS

FAMOUS FACES OF ARGENTINA

AMAZING PLACES TO FIND ON YOUR MAP

ARGENTINA CRAFT AND ACTIVITY IDEAS

FUN WOOD BURNING ACTIVITY

HOW TO GET THE FREE 9 COUNTRY MAP REPORTS FOR SOUTH AMERICA (INCLUDING ARGENTINA)

BOOKS SET IN OR ABOUT EVENTS IN THE 1920s FOR KIDS

ABOUT THE 1920s

THE ROARING TWENTIES TIMELINE

1920

1921–1924

1925

1927

1928

1929

ROARING 20’S RESOURCES

EASY FLAPPER HEADBAND CRAFT

BOOKS ABOUT TOADS AND FROGS FOR KIDS

WHAT IS A TOAD

WHAT DO TOADS EAT

DIFFERENT TYPES OF TOADS

TOAD CRAFTS AND ACTIVITIES

HOW TO DRAW A TOAD

WORLD WAR I BOOKS FOR KIDS

WHAT ARE ARTIFACTS

LETTERS FROM SOLDIERS

WORLD WAR 1 HANDS ON IDEAS

EASY PARACHUTE JUMPER CRAFT

BOOKS ABOUT TURKEY THE COUNTRY FOR KIDS

FASCINATING ISTANBUL FACTS

Observing The Istanbul Skyline

A CLOSER LOOK AT THE HAGIA SOPHIA

MORE ISTANBUL AND TURKEY CRAFT IDEAS FOR KIDS

SIMPLE LAYERED ART CRAFT

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