• Facebook
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • YouTube
  • LinkedIn
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Tina's Dynamic Homeschool Plus

Activity, Change, Progress

  • HOME
  • How to
    • Preschool
    • Kindergarten
    • Elementary
    • Middle School
    • High School
      • Science 
  • Planner
  • Lapbooks
    • Trioramas
    • History Games
    • LEGO
  • Shop
  • GET STARTED NOW!
    • Learning Styles
  • 7 Step Planner
    • DIY Best Student Planner
    • Free & Easy DIY Home Management Binder
  • Unit Studies
    • Creation to Ancients
    • Middle Ages to Reform
    • Exploring to Revolution
    • World Wars to Today
    • Science
    • Free Art Curriculum Grades 1 – 8
  • Curriculum
    • More Unit Studies
    • Geography
    • Writing PreK to 12th
    • Geronimo Stilton
  • BootCamp
    • Resources
      • Dynamic Subscriber Freebies
      • Exclusive Subscribers Library
      • Ultimate Unit Study Planner

Hands-On Activities

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

April 2, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The Swiss Family Robinson Book is a classic tale of a family lost at sea and the adventure that is born from survival. Also, you’ll love more ideas on my post Swiss Family Robinson Unit Study.

Having read The Swiss Family Robinson Book as a child and then again in my own homeschool I can attest to it being a wonderful piece of literature that should not be missed!

I have a fun craft that can be used to show off your love of books whether you have a garden, walkway, or just a small plot of book bricks.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

They are a lovely way to brighten up an area and trust me while I may be creative, I am no artist and if I can do it I know that you can too.

This craft can be done by any age, especially with help but I think you will find that middle and high school is the sweet spot for this one.

I also have a handful of questions to go along with the story to help everyone remember what was read.

More Resources for Learning About Swiss Family Robinson & Survival Activities

  • Where Did Swiss Family Robinson Land And Their Unique Homes | Cave Activity
  • From Switzerland to the Author of Swiss Family Robinson Quick Study
  • How to Create Swiss Family Treehouse Blueprints With Kids
  • What is the Swiss Family Robinson About | Simple Jeopardy Style Game
  • How to Make Adorable Swiss Family Robinson Book Characters Bookmarks
  • Exciting Swiss Family Robinson Activities | From Oyster To Pearl
  • The Swiss Family Robinson Fun and Easy Movie Night Ideas
  • Embrace Island Life: How To Eat A Coconut Like Swiss Family Robinson
  • Animals in The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Parrot Craft
  • Lost In Adventure: 10 Books Like Swiss Family Robinson
  • How to Build a LEGO Swiss Family Robinson STEM Challenge Treehouse
  • Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book
  • How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography
  • DIY Easy Compass Activity and Survival Ideas
  • Simple Candle
  • Hunting Deer
  • How to Plan And Start an Easy Gardening Unit Study for Kids

Books for Learning About The Swiss Family Robinson

Also, you’ll love reading these books to go with your study of Swiss Family Robinson.

8 Books & Resources for Learning About The Swiss Family Robinson

Add some of these books to your unit study of The Swiss Family Robinson and their adventures on a deserted island.

Swiss Family Robinson (Illustrated Classic): 200th Anniversary Collection

More than 100 original illustrations by Louis Rhead. You want to read this book with illustrations.

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

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world.
Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

Tracks, Scats and Signs (Take Along Guides)

Become a nature detective with this illustrative, engaging and fun Take-Along-Guide. You may not know where to look, or what to look for, but animal signs are everywhere and this guide will help you learn how to read them. You'll learn how to spot and identify common clues that 17 wildlife species leave behind in the woods, in the fields and along ponds.

Swiss Family Robinson Movie

The heroic tale of the courageous exploits of the Robinson family after they are shipwrecked on a deserted island. Using teamwork and ingenuity, they overcome the obstacles of nature and transform their new home into a "civilized" community.

Willy Whitefeather's Outdoor Survival Handbook for Kids

From treating a bee sting to building an overnight shelter, kids will gain the knowledge and confidence they need to survive outdoors.

Bear Grylls The Complete Adventures Collection 12 Books Set

Bear Grylls The Complete Adventures Collection 12 Books Set: Titles In This Set: The Blizzard Challenge The Desert Challenge The Jungle Challenge The Sea Challenge The River Challenge The Earthquake Challenge The Volcano Challenge The Safari Challenge The Cave Challenge The Mountain Challenge The Arctic Challenge The Sailing Challenge

Knot Tying Kit | Pro-Knot Best Rope Knot Cards, two practice cords and a carabiner

By Pro-Knot, the number one trusted name in Knots with over 7,000 5 Star reviews! This complete knot tying KIT includes everything you need to learn and practice how to tie 23 essential rope knots. The six card/twelve page waterproof plastic card set contains 23 best all purpose rope knots
clearly illustrated and described, bound together with a no-rust brass grommet in the corner!

Foraging Wild Edible Plants of North America: More than 150 Delicious Recipes Using Nature's Edibles

Edible wild plants are nature’s natural food source, growing along roadsides, sprouting in backyards, and blooming in country fields. North America’s diverse geography overflows with edible plant species.

Book Questions

  1. Who is the author of the Swiss Family book? Johann Wyss
  2. What are the names of the Robinson children? Franz, Fritz, Ernest, Jack
  3. Who narrates the Swiss Family Robinson Book? Father
  4. Where are the Robinsons traveling from? Switzerland
  5. Where are the the Robinsons traveling to? New Guinea
  6. What day of the journey did the storm hit the boat? The 6th day
  7. Name 3 animals that the Robinson’s brought from the boat. Dogs, chickens, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks, geese.
  8.  How did the family reach the island? They tied tubs together to make a boat.
Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

You can pick up 8×4 pavers at your local home and garden store for around .50 a piece so it’s affordable to do an entire library around your garden if you wanted.

How fun would it be to make one for every read aloud you do together as a family?

How to Make a Brick Book The Swiss Family Robinson Book

First, decide if you want to try to copy your book closely or if you just want to create your own interpretation inspired by the book cover.

I did a little of both here, not going for an exact replica.

One thing I have found that makes simple paintings look better is to use 2 or 3 colors for most things rather than everything being a flat color- sky, wood, greenery, etc.. all look better with different shades of the same color.

You will need:

  • Garden brick
  • Craft paints
  • Paint pens
  • Paintbrushes
  • Matte sealer spray
  • Your book for inspiration
Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

The first thing you want to do is give your brick a good dry scrub to remove any dust and dirt to prepare the surface for painting.

If you use water to scrub your brick, that’s absolutely fine, but you won’t need to give it a few days out in the sun to dry thoroughly.

If desired, you could first paint the entire brick with a spray primer.

I don’t usually do this and I have pretty good success as long as I clean it to begin with and seal it afterwards.

Paint three edges of the brick white, over lap a bit onto the wider surfaces to be sure its covered edge to edge. Allow it to dry and give it another coat.

These will be the exposed pages of your book.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

Now paint your main color, covering the “front” and “back” of the book as well as the spine”.

If you keep a damp cloth handy you can use it for any paint mistakes. I did a sky to sand combination. Allow this to dry completely.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

Grab an assortment of the paint colors you need for your version and a variety of paintbrushes, as well as paint pens.

I find for writing and small details these are easier to use than tiny paint brushes.

The Swiss Family Robinson Brick Book

Begin creating the largest piece of your cover by painting it on, for me that was the tree and the treehouse front and center, I layered 2 colors of green to make it more interesting and create depth.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

Layer on more elements like the treehouse.

Because it was important to show the family of 5 but difficult to get tiny details with the texture of the brick I chose to make them faceless with enough detail to make it obvious.

 I used the thicker end of a paint pen to make a dot for each face.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

And then went back with colored paint pens to draw on hair, clothing, etc…layering details as  I went.

If you make a mistake it is very easy to cover with paint, dry, and redo it.

Allow to dry before moving on.

Depending on the background colors you may need to write your book title in black or white, to make mine pop I wrote it with a white paint pen and then outlined it in black.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

Don’t forget to add the title of the book down the spine as well.

The final artistic step is to draw lines along the edges of your book to resemble pages.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

Give your finished book brick 2 coats of a matte sealer to protect it.

It’s ready. Place it in your garden or walkway.

You can create as many book bricks as you like to brighten up any area of your yard.

Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book

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

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

April 1, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Reading The Swiss Family Robinson is the perfect excuse to learn some Swiss geography as well as other geographical terms and phrases. Also, you’ll love more ideas on my post Free Swiss Family Robinson Unit Study. Too, look at my page Homeschool Geography for hands-on and simple ideas and tips.

We are creating a fantasy map with real geographical features to learn about them in a new and fun way.

The Robinsons ended up on their island as they were heading to a New Guinea colony to escape the Napoleonic Wars.

Their ship was abandoned by the crew in the midst of a wild storm and the family and a handful of animals managed to survive and end up in what is believed to be the East Indies.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Their island was filled with creatures, flora and fauna that was unknown to them.

And they had to band together to not only survive but thrive on their island.

It is an incredible story of survival, family, ingenuity, love, and adventure.

If you haven’t read it yet I cannot recommend enough making it a family read aloud experience.

The beauty of this is that as a read aloud it is a wonderful unit for a wide variety of ages and activities, like our map, can be adjusted for everyone to do at the same time.

The Swiss Family Robinson Book

8 Books & Resources for Learning About The Swiss Family Robinson

Add some of these books to your unit study of The Swiss Family Robinson and their adventures on a deserted island.

Swiss Family Robinson (Illustrated Classic): 200th Anniversary Collection

More than 100 original illustrations by Louis Rhead. You want to read this book with illustrations.

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

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world.
Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

Tracks, Scats and Signs (Take Along Guides)

Become a nature detective with this illustrative, engaging and fun Take-Along-Guide. You may not know where to look, or what to look for, but animal signs are everywhere and this guide will help you learn how to read them. You'll learn how to spot and identify common clues that 17 wildlife species leave behind in the woods, in the fields and along ponds.

Swiss Family Robinson Movie

The heroic tale of the courageous exploits of the Robinson family after they are shipwrecked on a deserted island. Using teamwork and ingenuity, they overcome the obstacles of nature and transform their new home into a "civilized" community.

Willy Whitefeather's Outdoor Survival Handbook for Kids

From treating a bee sting to building an overnight shelter, kids will gain the knowledge and confidence they need to survive outdoors.

Bear Grylls The Complete Adventures Collection 12 Books Set

Bear Grylls The Complete Adventures Collection 12 Books Set: Titles In This Set: The Blizzard Challenge The Desert Challenge The Jungle Challenge The Sea Challenge The River Challenge The Earthquake Challenge The Volcano Challenge The Safari Challenge The Cave Challenge The Mountain Challenge The Arctic Challenge The Sailing Challenge

Knot Tying Kit | Pro-Knot Best Rope Knot Cards, two practice cords and a carabiner

By Pro-Knot, the number one trusted name in Knots with over 7,000 5 Star reviews! This complete knot tying KIT includes everything you need to learn and practice how to tie 23 essential rope knots. The six card/twelve page waterproof plastic card set contains 23 best all purpose rope knots
clearly illustrated and described, bound together with a no-rust brass grommet in the corner!

Foraging Wild Edible Plants of North America: More than 150 Delicious Recipes Using Nature's Edibles

Edible wild plants are nature’s natural food source, growing along roadsides, sprouting in backyards, and blooming in country fields. North America’s diverse geography overflows with edible plant species.

Swiss Geography Study Ideas

There are many ways to learn about Swiss geography through hands-on activities.

There is never a need to pick up a pen to do it, and I have a lot of ideas here for you to turn this literature study into a geography lesson as well.

Choose one or multiples to add a unique dimension to your unit.

Find Switzerland on a world map.

Scrunch maps are a great easy item to keep on hand for locating countries.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography
  • Locate the capital of Switzerland (Bern).
  • Check out this entire Switzerland Homeschool Geography Unit Study (and Lapbook) with loads of great ideas for Swiss geography.
  • Switzerland is made up of 3 geographic regions, The Alps making up about 58% of the country, the Central Plateau making up around 31, and the Jura ( mountain range) at 11%. Have your child identify each of these regions on a map, atlas, or even an online map.
  • Research the largest body of water in Switzerland (Lake Geneva).
  • Take a virtual tour of land locked Switzerland in Switzerland for Kids.

Create your own imaginary island with my fantasy map tutorial below, including topographical features like mountains, rivers, patches of trees, and bodies of water.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

More The Swiss Family Robinson Activities

  • Where Did Swiss Family Robinson Land And Their Unique Homes | Cave Activity
  • From Switzerland to the Author of Swiss Family Robinson Quick Study
  • How to Create Swiss Family Treehouse Blueprints With Kids
  • What is the Swiss Family Robinson About | Simple Jeopardy Style Game
  • How to Make Adorable Swiss Family Robinson Book Characters Bookmarks
  • Exciting Swiss Family Robinson Activities | From Oyster To Pearl
  • The Swiss Family Robinson Fun and Easy Movie Night Ideas
  • Embrace Island Life: How To Eat A Coconut Like Swiss Family Robinson
  • Animals in The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Parrot Craft
  • Lost In Adventure: 10 Books Like Swiss Family Robinson
  • How to Build a LEGO Swiss Family Robinson STEM Challenge Treehouse
  • Survival to Inspiration The Swiss Family Robinson Book | Brick Book
  • How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography
  • DIY Easy Compass Activity and Survival Ideas
  • Simple Candle
  • Hunting Deer
  • How to Plan And Start an Easy Gardening Unit Study for Kids

Finally, look how to make a Swiss Family Robinson map.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map

Even younger children can complete this activity by simplifying some of the steps.

It can be used as an opportunity to explain the difference in islands, peninsulas, archipelago and other land formations.

You will need:

  • Watercolor paper
  • Watercolor paints
  • Fine line pen
  • Dry uncooked rice
How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

First, on a sheet of watercolor paper pour handfuls of rice around the page, adding as little or as much as you like. 

It creates more visual interest if you make larger and smaller piles.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Next, take a fine line pen and trace around the majority of the rice to create various-sized pieces of land.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map

You can trace around single pieces of loose rice or larger groupings.

I like to use these fine-line Sharpie permanent markers you don’t want to use regular markers because the water makes the marker bleed and blurs your edges.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map

Pour the rice off the page into a container to save for another project.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Give the pen a few minutes to dry and decide what colors you would like to use on your Island, I went for shades of tan and green.

Fill in the center of your land areas with your various colors using different opaqueness of watercolor paint to create interest and dimension.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Allow the paint to dry and then watercolor whatever shades of blue you would like around the outside of the land for water.

Go back and add more layers of color to the land if you would like to further define the areas for trees, mountains, sand and any other areas you want to create.

This will keep your mat from looking so flat.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Let the water and the rest of the page dry completely, this really doesn’t take long.

Once dry, retrace the outline of your map to make it a nice and dark outline.

Draw a small compass rose in the corner of your map.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

I would say, “Now, here’s the fun part”, but to me every step of this process was really fun!

Begin by creating areas of mountains, trees, and other details on your map.

Upside down V’s make mountains.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Create little bushes like blobs for trees or make evergreens for forest patches.

We even sketched out a little hut and farmland.

To create a plot of farmland, make a square with 3 small lines in one direction and then another square with 3 small lines in the other direction, repeating until it is the size you want.

How To Make A Swiss Family Robinson Map | Easy Swiss Geography

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: geography, hands-on, hands-on activities, homeschool geography, map, Swiss Family Robinson

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

March 30, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 7 Sacagawea facts for kids. Also, you’ll love the ideas on my page Lewis and Clark Fun Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook.

Too, I have a neat tutorial for how to make Lewis & Clark and Sacagawea peg dolls to add to your lessons, and a few more ideas to boot to make it full and fun.

Sacagawea was one of the most important influential women in the early development of America.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

She led the Corp of Discovery for Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they explored the new land purchase.

Thomas Jefferson put together the Corp of Discovery to learn about the flora, fauna, and peoples of the area acquired in the Louisiana Purchase.

And he needed a guide to help with identifying these things as well as acting as an interpreter.

An amazing and strong woman, Sacagawea, traveled so far from home as the only female in the party, and with a newborn baby too!

She makes a great study topic for boys and girls alike, such an inspiration.

Kids Books About Sacagawea | Lewis and Clark

14 Lewis and Clark | Sacagawea Exploration Unit Study Resources

Lewis and Clark is one of the most significant periods in American history and you can spend weeks exploring the lands and people west of the Mississippi with these fun books and resources.

How We Crossed The West: The Adventures Of Lewis And Clark

Appealing art and descriptive text bring Lewis and Clark alive for young adventurers. Carefully chosen text from Lewis and Clark's actual journals opens a fascinating window into this country's exciting history.

National Geographic Readers: Sacagawea

Explore one of the most recognized figures in American history with this biography of Sacagawea. Kids will learn about her crucial role in the Lewis and Clark expedition and her influential legacy.  The level 3 text provides accessible, yet wide-ranging, information for independent readers.

Of Courage Undaunted: Across the Continent with Lewis & Clark

Commissioned in 1803 by President Thomas Jefferson to explore and open up this vast territory, Lewis and Clark felt it was the realization of a lifelong dream. Against the hardships of the wilderness, possible attack by hostile Indians, sudden blizzards and terrifying natural obstacles, these two men led the Corps of Discovery ably and nobly to complete their mission. Their Corps included American Indians from the Sioux, Mandan, Shoshone, Clatsop and Chopunnish tribes. Sacajawea, the only woman on the trip, was a Shoshone woman who contributed invaluable service as interpreter and guide. Daugherty's evocative sepia and black ink illustrations depict individuals of humor, vitality, passion, and strength.

Undaunted Courage: Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson, and the Opening of the American West

From the New York Times bestselling author the definitive book on Lewis and Clark’s exploration of the Louisiana Purchase, the most momentous expedition in American history and one of the great adventure stories of all time.

The Truth About Sacajawea (Lewis & Clark Expedition)

The only book ever written that tells the eyewitness truth about this famous teenage Indian mother who was indispensable to the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

The Journals of Lewis and Clark: 1805: Volume II

On May 14, 1804, the Corps of Discovery set out from Camp Dubois, Illinois, heading westward under the command of Captain Meriwether Lewis and his Second Lieutenant, William Clark. While Lewis led the group in terms of rank, the two men became de facto equals, giving their names jointly to a journey that would shape the future of the fledgling United States — the Lewis and Clark Expedition. This book presents journal entries taken directly from the expedition.

Sacagawea: American Pathfinder

Describes how Sacagawea found adventure guiding Lewis and Clark to the Oregon coast.

Along the Trail with Lewis and Clark (Third Edition): A Guide to the Trail Today

Take Your Own Journey through History on the Lewis & Clark Trail! Follow the journey of the Corps of Discovery from Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello through the Midwest and the Rockies, to the Pacific Ocean and back with this detailed chronicle of the Lewis & Clark Expedition. This third edition of the classic guidebook features accessible text that combines the historical sites and color maps that merge the past and present in a user-friendly and entertaining way.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition (Graphic History)

In this epic graphic novel, follow the dramatic story of  the Lewis and Clark expedition. In 1804, these two explorers, along with their "Corps of Discovery," traversed the unmapped American West, leading to scientific discoveries, interactions with Native nations, and route to the Pacific Ocean. Dramatic illustrations and fast-paced text provide a "you-are-there" experience. With extensive back matter, including a bibliography, extended reading list, glossary, and further Internet sources, young readers will gobble up this action-packed comic book about one of history's most compelling moments.

The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country From Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad With 25 Projects

In The Oregon Trail: The Journey Across the Country from Lewis and Clark to the Transcontinental Railroad, readers ages 9 to 12 can delve into the explorations of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and other explorers. They can learn about the more than half a million people who followed during the nineteenth century. What challenges did these pioneers face on the 2,170-mile journey? How were Native American tribes and nations affected by this mass migration? Primary sources allow readers to feel like a part of the Oregon Trail experience while biographical sidebars will introduce the compelling people who were part of this time in U.S. history. Investigative, hands-on projects and critical thinking activities such as writing a treaty and researching artistic impressions of the Oregon Trail invite readers to further their understanding of life on the trail, early towns and forts, and the Transcontinental Railroad that followed the wagons into new lands and territories that would eventually become states.

Seaman's Journal

A trade paperback edition of the award-winning tale of the journey of Lewis and Clark. When Seaman, a Newfoundland dog, met his new master in August of 1803, he didn't know that he would spend the next three years on an adventure of more than 8,000 miles to the Pacific Ocean and back. Seaman's Journal is based on actual entries in Meriwether Lewis s journal describing Seaman, and it presents an account of the Lewis and Clark expedition as seen from the viewpoint of Lewis s dog. Join Seaman before the trip as preparations take place. Meet the Native American guides and friends they encountered along the way. And read of Seaman s love for Sacajawea, the Shoshone woman whose husband acted as interpreter and guide. Ages 5-8.

The Lewis & Clark Expedition: Join the Corps of Discovery to Explore Uncharted Territory

Describes the expedition led by Lewis and Clark to explore the unknown western regions of America at the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Lewis and Clark for Kids: Their Journey of Discovery with 21 Activities

Following Meriwether Lewis and William Clark’s Corps of Discovery as they navigate the muddy Missouri River and begin a great adventure, this activity book is set against the background of the vast North American continent. It takes children from President Jefferson’s vision of an exploratory mission across a continent full of unique plants and animals through their dangerous and challenging journey into the unknown to the expedition’s triumphant return to the frontier town of St. Louis. Twenty-one activities bring to life the Native American tribes they encountered, the plants and animals they discovered, and the camping and navigating techniques they used. A glossary of terms and listings of Lewis and Clark sites, museums, and related websites round out this comprehensive activity book.

It's Her Story Sacajawea A Graphic Novel

Sacajawea was a brilliant, multilingual Shoshone girl who was torn from her home at a young age. In 1804, she set out with the Lewis and Clark Expedition, acting as an interpreter and guide across hundreds of miles of unmapped land to reach the Pacific Ocean. Almost 200 years later, she became the first Indigenous woman to appear on a US coin. This is her story.

Moreover look at these facts about Sacagawea.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids

  1. Sacagawea was born to a Shoshone Indian chief in what is now known as Idaho. 
  2. She was just 16 years old when she led the Lewis & Clark expedition as an interpreter and guide for the 8,000-mile journey.          
  3. The young Shoshone woman carried a newborn, her first child, on the journey in a cradleboard.          
  4. Sacagawea identified edible plants for the explorers, helped set the tone for peaceful meetings with various tribes, guided the group through unfamiliar terrain, interpreted, and was able to make moccasins and other clothing as well.
  5. Lewis & Clark considered her so important to their journey that they gave her an equal vote in the expedition’s decision to camp near present-day Astoria, Oregon, for the winter of 1805.
  6. A famous quote of Sacagawea is “Everything I do is for my people.” maintaining a positive relationship with the Hidatsa and Shoshone tribes   was important to her.
  7. At the end of the year-long journey her husband Charbonneau received 320 acres of land and $500.33 for his service to the corp. Sacagawea herself received no compensation.                                                                                                                                                                      
7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Before we get to today’s tutorial, I found a few more wonderful crafts and activities to highlight Sacagawea and Lewis & Clarks place in history.

Lewis & Clark and Sacagawea Crafts and Activities

  • Learn What Plants And Animals Did Lewis And Clark Discover on their Famous Trek & Bitterroot Craft for a fun art activity that includes science, history, and geography.
  • Watch Sacagawea Bedtime History on YouTube and learn about the brave Shoshone girl and her adventures along the journey.
  • Make a Sacagawea Tipi Project and learn more about dwellings of the Native Americans.
  • Create a cradleboard for dolls like Sacagawea wore on her journey using the Native American Activities For Kindergarten Create A Fun Cradleboard Craft tutorial.
  • 22 Free Lewis & Clark Activity Posters (You Don’t Want to Miss These)
  • Lewis & Clark – Mighty Mississippi book & Sediment Activity
  • Lewis and Clark:Cooking on the Trail
7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls
  • Dynamic Lewis and Clark Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Lewis and Clark Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Also, look at my Lewis and Clark Lapbook with coloring pages.

Finally, look how to make these adorable Sacagawea peg dolls.

“Amazing the things you find when you bother to search for them.”— Sacagawea

How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

These simple peg dolls are a wonderful art project and can be used in dioramas, block centers, storytelling baskets, and more as you learn about Sacagawea and the Corp of Discovery.

You will need:

  • Wood peg dolls
  • Small scrap of felt
  • Craft paint
  • Paint pens
  • Hot glue gun/stick
  • Craft stick
  • Small paint brushes
  • Clear spray sealer
7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

First, here are the simplest steps I have found to paint several peg dolls at once.

Cut a ½” piece of a craft stick off one end.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Paint a small unfinished wooden peg doll tan at the head and a lighter cream/tan from the shoulders down.

Give it a little black hair on top and tiny dots for the eyes.

Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Crafts

Set aside to dry.

Paint the heads and halfway down the body a rich warm tan for Sacagawea and lighter shade for Lewis & Clark, the large peg dolls, allow it to dry to the touch.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Use a darker tan for buckskin clothing on all 3 figures, a dress for her and brown “suits: for the men with white shirts beneath.

Paint on hair, add a long black braid to Sacagawea and use either the handle tip to dot on eyes or a fine tipped paint pen.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Use the smallest brush you have to add details like fringe and decoration to her dress, a bag and book for the guys, buttons, etc.

Set aside to dry. Keep it simple, add a few small details that help highlight the time period.

I looked up images and Lewis had more gray hair and Clark had reddish hair.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Hot glue the baby (tiny peg doll) to the small piece of craft stick.

Wrap a bit of brown felt around it and hot glue it in place to create a cradleboard.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Now hot glue the cradleboard to Sacagawea’s back, how cute is this little guy?

Once all the paint is dry take them outside and cover them in 2 coats of matte sealer to keep the paint more durable and likely to chip off.

7 Fun Sacagawea Facts For Kids | How To Make Lewis & Clark & Sacagawea Peg Dolls

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, lewis and clark, lewisandclark, Sacagawea, westward expansion, westwardho

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

March 28, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

If you are looking for engaging pond books for preschoolers who love pond animals, you have landed in the right place. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool Preschool for more tips and ideas! And my page Above & Below: Pond Unit Study, Hands-on Ideas, & Lapbook.

From fish to dragonflies there is so much to observe and learn about.

Preschoolers need a lot of fresh air, movement, and their attention span is about 6-12 minutes.

So, you want to make sure that every one of those minutes is filled with fun learning experiences.

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

Getting out and seeing everything firsthand, looking at it closely and then reinforcing what they are seeing with engaging books is the best lesson you can give your preschooler.

You know me and you know that besides 8 great books I also have a few ideas for how to dive right into a pond study using real life experiences and fun items to explore the pond habitat.

Exploring The Pond With Preschoolers

I cannot recommend enough if you are doing a pond study that you find a local pond.

Go explore it, pack up a few books, some tools, and take a picnic lunch or snack along to make a day of it.

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

You probably do most of these activities with your child when you’re near a pond anyway but here are some learning ideas.

  • Feed the ducks and try to identify a few species.
  • Catch and release minnows and tadpoles.
  • Observe turtles sunning themselves on the bank.
  • Look for telltale signs of fish life in the ripples.
  • Identify bugs with a colorful book or app.
  • Use binoculars to watch birds in the trees and flying above.
  • Bring pond water home and observe microorganisms in it with a microscope.
  • Listen for the croak of bullfrogs and try to spot one.
  • Watch dragonflies darting in and around the pond.
  • Compare the difference in the soil at the edge of the pond and that which is further away.
8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

Preschool Pond Tools

If you are headed to the pond to observe with a preschooler here are a few tools that will make the experience richer and more fun.

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals
  • Kids just love bug catching kits and they are a wonderful way to hold and observe insects you find around the pond for a bit.
  • A magnifying glass is handy for closer observation of bugs, grasses, minnows, and even soil at the pond’s edge.
  • You don’t need a top of the line expensive pair but I would skip the kids binoculars and invest in a decent one for nature walks, backyard birding and of course pond study.

Pond Animals to Study on Your Visit To The Pond

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

Depending on where you are there is a multitude of birds, fish, insects, reptiles, and mammals in and around the pond to learn about.

  • Ducks- And look at Make Way For Ducklings Fun Duck Pond Playdough Invitation to Play.
  • Fish- Make a Paint Splat Fishing Pond for art while you read about what makes the characteristics that make a fish a fish.
  • Salamanders
  • Dragonflies- Learn 8 Insect Fun Facts About Texas For Kids | Easy Dragonfly Craft
  • Frogs- Pretend to be frogs and teach your child to identify numbers with a Frog Lily Pad Hop.
  • Turtles
8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals
  • Pond Skaters
  • Herons
  • Alligators-Make Alligator Pie: Book and Recipe, cooking is always wonderful to include for preschoolers on up in any study.
  • Kingfishers
  • Snakes
  • Beavers- Once you return from your pond visit you can put together this cute little Pond Life for Kindergarten Activity Build a Fun Beaver Dam.
8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers Who Love Pond Animals

8 Engaging Pond Books for Preschoolers

Here are some wonderful living books for reading aloud and for preschoolers to pore over at home and while at the pond.

8 Pond Books for Preschoolers

Here are some wonderful living books for reading aloud and for preschoolers to pore over at home and while at the pond.

Over and Under the Pond:

In Over and Under the Pond, readers will discover the plants and animals that make up the rich, interconnected ecosystem of a mountain pond. Over the pond, the water is a mirror, reflecting the sky. But under the water is a hidden world of creatures—minnows darting, beavers diving, and tadpoles growing. These secrets and many others are waiting to be discovered over and under the pond in this sweet children’s book from Kate Messner and Christopher Silas Neal, the latest in their beloved series that offers kids a peek into hidden ecosystems.

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

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world. Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

At the Pond

When the soft pink of the dawn sun starts peeking over the pond, a new day has begun for all the animals who live in it and around its watery edges. The friendly duck family, the mysterious water striders, and the busy beaver are a few of the many fascinating and familiar animals included in this glowing poetic tribute to the lively ecosystem of the pond.

Turtle Pond

What is it about turtles that fascinates us? Is it how they hide inside their patterned shells, their wizened faces, their slow determination?

In Turtle Pond, a child and his parents visit their local public garden throughout the year, observing the turtles as they play, dive, feed, bask, climb, hide and doze. James Gladstone’s lively prose poem reveals the pleasure and curiosity that come from spending time with the turtles. Karen Reczuch’s stunningly beautiful illustrations accurately portray these extraordinary creatures, both in and out of the water, surrounded by lush plants and the changing seasons beyond the greenhouse windows.

Have You Seen My Duckling?

In this classic and bestselling Caldecott Honor winner, a mother duck loses her duckling—and finds it, with the help of sharp-eyed young readers. 

Ducks in the Pond

The pond, normally filled with ducks, appears to be empty--and an empty pond opens the door for many questions. Where did all the ducks go? When ducks are not in the pond, what can they possibly be doing? Do they like to do the same activities that people like to do? Can they really be sleeping, shopping, or even eating pizza? Maybe they just flew away for the day.

So what happens when another animal is spotted swimming where the ducks used to swim? Can it really mean the ducks have left the pond forever? Will the ducks eventually make their way back?

In the Small, Small Pond

A child explores the wonders of the natural world in this rhyming, beautiful bright colored picture storybook about the lives of small animals and insects living around a freshwater pond.

What's in the Pond? (Hidden Life)

A fascinating picture book brings to life the creatures that live in and around a pond, from a water strider and a tadpole to a painted turtle and a red-winged blackbird and features informative text on each animal's characteristics and habits.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: books, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool preschool, livingbooks, ponds, preschool

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

March 26, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Kindergarten earth science should be fun and exciting, filled with edible activities, hands-on projects, and interesting books rather than boring worksheets (although they have their place too). Also, look at my page Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum.

Also, look at Free Earth Science Lapbook & Unit Study Ideas.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Earth science is all aspects of the planet from its deep inner core to the outer layers of the atmosphere.

The different areas of earth science studies that are usually covered in early elementary years are – geology (rocks and minerals), paleontology (dinosaurs and fossils), meteorology (atmosphere and the weather), and oceanography.

I have a tasty edible earth science tectonic plate activity as well as some great information on the motion of tectonic plates, and 8 more hands-on earth science ideas to try.

Books about Earth Science for Kids

First, look at some of these books to add to your earth science topic.

9 Books for Kids Who Love to Read About Earth Science Topics

Add these books to your learning day to learn about various earth science topics.

The Story Book of Science (Yesterday's Classics)

The wonders of plant and animal life told with rare literary charm by Uncle Paul in conversations with three children. Besides such stories as the ants' subterranean city, the spider's suspension bridge, and the caterpillars' processing, he unlocks the mystery behind thunder and lightning, clouds and rain, the year and its seasons, and volcanoes and earthquakes. Suitable for ages 9 to 12.

Earthquakes (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Some earthquakes are so small that you don’t even feel them, while others can make even big buildings shake. Learn why earthquakes happen, where they are most likely to occur, and what to do if one happens near you. 

Now with updated text and art, this classic picture book describes the causes and effects of earthquakes (including a tsunami). This book features rich vocabulary and fascinating cross-sections of mountains, volcanoes, and faults in the earth’s moving crust.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. The text and art were vetted by Dr. Roland Burgmann, Professor of the Department of Earth and Planetary Science at the University of California, Berkeley.

The First Book of the Earth

A republication of the 1958 book by Irene Sevrey with illustrations by Mildred Waltrip, The First Book of the Earth is an elementary level natural history book that was written during a time when children's books held a student's interest and imagination because they were "living" rather than simply based on factoids and vivid pictures. It is a wonderful introduction to the subject of geology and covers the earth as a planet in the solar system and the physics of how it circles the sun, thereby defining our days and years. It then moves on to describing the earth's origin as scientists understand it and takes up the topics of the earth's composition, its structure, molecular makeup, rock families, minerals, volcanoes and earthquakes, mountains and their formation, and how glaciers and rivers affect the shaping of the earth's surface. The book ends by briefly discussing dinosaurs and the possible aging techniques used to date the earth's age in terms of epochs or periods.

Rocks, Gems and Minerals: A Fully Illustrated, Authoritative and Easy-to-Use Guide (A Golden Guide from St. Martin's Press)

This handy identification guide to the most common kinds of rocks and minerals offers concise and fascinating information on:- Physical and chemical properties- Origins and geologic significance- Gems and semiprecious stones- How to find and collect specimens

Earth: An Intimate History

Beginning with Mt. Vesuvius, whose eruption in Roman times helped spark the science of geology, and ending in a lab in the West of England where mathematical models and lab experiments replace direct observation, Richard Fortey tells us what the present says about ancient geologic processes. He shows how plate tectonics came to rule the geophysical landscape and how the evidence is written in the hills and in the stones. And in the process, he takes us on a wonderful journey around the globe to visit some of the most fascinating and intriguing spots on the planet.

The First Book of Caves

A book about caves with drawings for young readers with a vocabulary list and definition at the end.

Rocks and Minerals: A Guide of Familiar Minerals, Gems, Ores, and Rocks (A Golden Nature Guide)

A guide to familiar minerals, gems, ores, and rocks enhanced by 400 full color illustrations. Provides much geological knowledge in how to look for surface forms, rocks, minerals etc. Includes information for the searcher and an useful list of clubs and organizations. Excellent bibliography and index.

A Whale of the Wild (A Voice of the Wilderness Novel)

For Vega and her family, salmon is life. And Vega is learning to be a salmon finder, preparing for the day when she will be her family’s matriarch. But then she and her brother Deneb are separated from their pod when a devastating earthquake and tsunami render the seascape unrecognizable. Vega must use every skill she has to lead her brother back to their family. The young orcas face a shark attack, hunger, the deep ocean, and polluted waters on their journey. Will Vega become the leader she’s destined to be?

Rocks, Rivers, and the Changing Earth: A first book about geology

A living book on the living earth. Told in a conversational style, the book discusses the topics of geology and provides ideas for investigations and demonstrations of the scientific principles. Illustrated throughout, this book is a favorite as an introduction to geology for young readers. This edition includes updated science information on plate tectonics and the structure of the earth.

For all earth science related my favorite resource is Nature Anatomy, it contains some information on mountains, volcanoes, and to supplement a study on tectonic plates.

But covers so much more like oceans, nature, animals, and so much more.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Types of Tectonic Motion

Tectonic plates are pieces of Earth’s crust and uppermost mantle, together they are referred to as the lithosphere.

The plates are around 62 miles thick and consist of two principal types of material: oceanic crust and continental crust.

There are 7 major tectonic plates-Pacific, North American, Eurasian, African, Antarctic, Indo-Australian, and the South American Plate.

There are also 8 additional smaller minor plates and a very long list of tertiary plates.

Tectonic plates are like loose puzzle pieces that rest on the hot, molten rock of Earth’s mantle and fit snugly against each other.

The heat from radioactive processes within the planet’s interior causes these plates to move, sometimes toward, sometimes away from each other, and even slide over top of each other.

  • Divergent Plate Boundary- This is when plates move away from each other. Along these types of boundaries earthquakes are common and magma (molten rock) rises from the Earth’s mantle to the surface, which solidifies and creates new oceanic crust.

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is an example.

  • Transform Plate Boundary – A transform fault or transform boundary, is when two plates move along each other.The motion is predominantly horizontal.

Example: San Andreas fault in California.

  • Convergent Plate Boundary- This action is when two plates collide together. The colliding plates can cause the edges of one or both plates to buckle up into mountain ranges or one of the plates may bend downward into a deep seafloor trench.

Example: The Pacific Ring of Fire

I wanted to also demonstrate a Subduction Zone in our experiment, which is what happens in a convergent plate boundary when one plate sinks into the mantle underneath the other plate.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Moreover, look at more earth science activities.

More Earth Science Activities

  1. Another great edible activity is How to Make an Edible Earth Project in a Cup With Kids to demonstrate each layer.
  2. Here is a huge list of 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten to cover a wide variety of topics.
  3. 5 Simple Wind Energy Activities For Kids & Fun DIY Anemometer
  4. Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  5. Rock Activities For Kindergarten And Fun Edible Rock Cycle
  6. Edible Rock Cycle Fudge and Hands-on Rock Activities
  7. Dinosaur Unit Study With Kids Who Love Dinosaurs
  8. Fun Facts About Mold Fossils & 4 Types of Fossil Activities For Kids

Finally, look at how to make an edible kindergarten earth science tectonic plate activity.

How To Make An Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

You will need:

  • Vanilla pudding
  • Graham crackers
  •  Food coloring
  • Paper plates
  • Pen
How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

First, write each of the types of tectonic activity on the edge of your paper plates-transform, convergent, subduction zone, and divergent.

Add a little food coloring to your pudding to give it the look of magma.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Spread colored pudding around on the plates, two individual cups were enough spread over all 4 of my plates.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Lay two graham cracker halves on the center of each plate and demonstrate a divergent plate boundary, this is one in which plates move away from one another.

To do this press your graham crackers into the pudding and away from one another so the “magma” oozes up between them.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Grab the plate for the transform plate boundary and slide the two halves against each other in opposite directions, this motion makes them touch but doesn’t really do any damage or create much change.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Now demonstrate a convergent plate boundary by pressing them towards each other with one sliding over top of the other.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

For the final demonstration dip half of your two graham cracker pieces in water for a few seconds to soften them up.

Place them in the center of the plate and move them towards one another to create folds, or mountains in the convergent plate boundary to show how they are formed.

When your experiment is over it is time to sample the delicious tectonic plates and magma.

How to Make an Edible Kindergarten Earth Science Tectonic Plate Activity

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: earth science, kindergarten, science, sciencecurriculum

  • « Go to Previous Page
  • Page 1
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 93
  • Page 94
  • Page 95
  • Page 96
  • Page 97
  • Interim pages omitted …
  • Page 205
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Footer

Privacy Policy | About Me | Reviews | Contact | Advertise

Categories

Archives

Tina Robertson is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2026 · 5 TNT LLC · Log in · Privacy Policy