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ancient civilizations

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

February 13, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re making sebetu rolls as we learn about Ancient Mesopotamia. Also, look at my page Ancient Mesopotamia Fun Facts For Kids Who Love History for more hands-on history ideas.

Too, you’ll love my Free Mesopotamia Lapbook For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning. I have a wonderful older book, Ancient Egyptians and Their Neighbors: An Activity Guide, which has been one of the best books for fun and easy hands-on history ideas for ancient civilizations.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

It has 4 sections in it: Hittites, Nubians, Mesopotamians and Egyptians.

And today. Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): Cook Sebetu (seh-BAY-too) Rolls, I’m sharing a fun recipe to do while studying Ancient Mesopotamia.

But first, look at a few interesting facts about this area.

Even though Ancient Mesopotamia is a region, there were several civilizations in this area like the Sumerians, Babylonians and Assyrians to name three of them.

So there was a variety of food grown and cooked throughout each civilization but there were common foods to all of them.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA

First, look at these books about Mesopotamia.

7 Books to Read About Ancient Mesopotamia

Mesopotamia is a region situated within the Tigris–Euphrates River system, in the northern part of the Fertile Crescent. Today, Mesopotamia occupies modern Iraq.  In the broader sense, the historical region included present-day Iraq and parts of present-day Iran, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey.

Gilgamesh the King (The Gilgamesh Trilogy)

Gilgamesh, half-god and half-man, in his loneliness and isolation becomes a cruel tyrant over the citizens of Uruk. To impress them forever he orders a great wall to be built, driving his people to exhaustion and despair so that they cry to the Sun God for help.

The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia during a terrible drought, Jomar and Zefa's father must send his children away to the city of Ur because he can no longer feed them. At fourteen, Jomar is old enough to apprentice with Sidah, a master goldsmith for the temple of the moongod, but there is no place for Zefa in Sidah's household. Zefa, a talented but untrained musician, is forced to play her music and sing for alms on the streets of Ur.

Science in Ancient Mesopotamia

Describes the enormous accomplishments of the Sumerians and Babylonians of ancient Mesopotamia in every scientific area, a heritage which affects our own everyday lives

Ancient Mesopotamia: The Sumerians, Babylonians, And Assyrians

Explores Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian cultures, discussing social structure, lifestyles, and the military in these societies.

Lugalbanda: The Boy Who Got Caught Up in a War: An Epic Tale From Ancient Iraq

Lugalbanda woke with a jolt. He opened his eyes and what did he see but the terrible Anzu bird beating its wings in its nest high above. . . . Did he quake? Did he quail? No. Lugalbanda the Brave sat and stared, and into his head came a brilliant idea.

Mesopotamia (A True Book)

Presents the history of ancient Mesopotamia, describing the different groups of people who lived there, and their government, cities, everyday life, religion, and writing.

You Wouldn't Want to Be a Sumerian Slave!

Invites readers them to become the main character. Each book uses humorous illustrations to depict the sometimes dark and horrific side of life during important eras in history.

The book Mesopotamian Archaeology states: “Wheat and barley were grown on a large scale, and without doubt formed the staple food of the people, providing them with an ample supply of material for cakes and different kinds of bread, including milk loaves and black bread.

MESOPOTAMIA- IT TRULY IS THE CRADLE OF CIVILIZATION

The principal fruits which were cultivated at this period, were dates, figs, pomegranates and grapes: they were eaten cooked and uncooked, sometimes forming part of a fruit salad, at other times being made into fruit cakes.

As regards vegetables, onions, radishes, cucumbers and beans appear to have been the most favoured.”

So we decided to make a staple from their diet which is bread and tweaking the recipe some from Ancient Egyptians and Their Neighbors: An Activity Guide to make Sebetu (seh-BAY-too) Rolls.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

It piqued our interest because supposedly its based on a 3,000 year old recipe. Scholars found recipes written on clay tablets.

This bread or crust was part of bird pie and a few ingredients have been changed. We don’t know what sasku flour is, so we’ll use just regular flour.

I love it when I have all the ingredients already which has to be a great standard for doing hands-on history projects. No fuss and simple are best.

HOW TO MAKE ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA SEBETU ROLLS

Look at this cast of characters that we had our house.

  • 1 c. flour
  • 2 t. olive oil
  • 1 clove fresh garlic (we used minced)
  • 1/4 t. salt
  • 1/4 c milk
  • 2 T water
  • 1-1/2 t. baking powder
  • 2 or 3 green onions (white part only)

Supplies: 1 big mixing bowl, one small bowl, cookie sheet, measuring spoons, 1 cup dry measure and a liquid measuring cup.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

First, oil the cookie sheet and set aside. It doesn’t have to be much. I think we used a couple of teaspoons and wiped it on with a papertowel.

Then mix the flour and baking powder in large bowl and set aside.

In the smaller bowl stir together water and salt.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

Add milk. Stir. And then add the 2 t. olive oil and stir.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

Mix in the garlic and we chopped the white part of the green onion a bit more fine before we added it to the liquid mixture.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

I think Tiny got some green part of the onion, but this isn’t science, so it was all good.

He kneaded the dough as fast as he could and I’m sure not too long as he is not a patient cook.

ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA SEBETU ROLLS

There’s that cute baker (okay, okay).

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

Then he halved the dough to form 8 balls and baked them on 400 degrees for about 15 minutes.

He cooked them a bit longer and checked like every two minutes. So about another 6 minutes or so.

I was shocked! The boys flipped out over how good the rolls were.

They said it reminded them of the biscuits at Red Lobster. They were absolutely delicious with the onion and garlic flavoring added to them.

Day 2. Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): Cook Sebetu Rolls, I'm sharing a fun recipe to do while studying about Ancient Mesopotamia.

And we were surprised to learn that the ancient recipes seemed so modern.

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

I think your kids will like this! Also, we love, love using Home School in the Woods as they have many hand-on and fun history projects for each time period.

Here are more activities you’ll like:

Ancient Mesopotamia Hands-on History Cook Sebetu Rolls

Go to my Ancient Civilization page for free lapbooks for the civilizations of Ancient Mesopotamia, and my Ancient Civilizations II page also has a free Mesopotamia book and Hands-on History Activities for Learning about Ancient Civilizations.

And here is first day in this series if you missed it:

Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown.

Don’t forget to follow BOTH of my Pinterest accounts for AWESOME pins.

Visit Tina Robertson’s profile on Pinterest.


Visit Tinas Dynamic Homeschool ‘s profile on Pinterest.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Ancient Civilizations, Hands-On Activities, History Based, History Resources Tagged With: ancient civilizations, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, mesopotamia

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

February 3, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

If you’re learning Ancient Egypt civilization, you’ll love this next hands-on history activity. Also, look at my Ancient Civilizations page about Ancient Egypt for more ideas! Too, look at my page Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities for more ideas.

Learning homeschool history should be just as much about doing as reading living history books. So today, I have a hands-on history craft and it is Ancient Egypt Civilization King Narmer Crown by using salt dough.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

My goal in this series is to focus on the ancient civilizations. It seems like plenty of hands-on history ideas abound for early American life or American history, but it can be a bit more difficult to find ideas for a study of the ancients.

Some of these ideas in this series come from books, but many do not.

They come from my experience teaching this several times over. I hope your kids, any age, will enjoy these ideas or they will help you to take a spinoff idea from mine.

Learning About Ancient Egypt Through Hands-on Art

For example, this idea for the ancient Egypt civilization of King Narmer’s double crown could easily be substituted for a picture of Cleopatra from the Cleopatra: Queen of Egypt book that we love.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

Her side profile would make an excellent hands-on history idea and a fun way to learn about the time period.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

Look at the easy ingredients we already had at the house for this salt dough project.

  • 2 cups flour
  • 1 cup of salt
  • 1 cup warm water
  • paints/paint brushes. We had a combination of tempera and poster paints. Just grab what you have.
  • cookie tray
  • aluminum foil
  • wooden skewer and even a few toothpicks to use for drawing
  • big mixing bowl, dry measuring cup and liquid measuring cup
  • spatula or big spoon for stirring
  • preheat oven to 170 degrees Fahrenheit
Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

It couldn’t be any easier or quicker to measure and mix the flour, salt, and warm water.

Stir to combine and then get your kid to use his hands to mix well.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

Then line the cookie tray with foil and roll the dough out onto the platter. And start pressing down and shaping.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

Try to get the same width all the way around. Tiny shaped it into looking like an ancient tablet.

KING NARMER DOUBLE CROWN SALT DOUGH CRAFT

Then, look for a picture your child wants to sketch or draw. Also, this could easily be turned into a cartouche.

Ancient Egypt Civilization How to Make A King Narmer Double Crown Craft

Tiny found a sketch of King Narmer (also known as Menes) that he liked and to use for drawing.

Then using the wooden skewer and toothpick, he began sketching and drawing the design.

Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

The beauty of working with salt dough is that until it dries your kid can erase and shape and form the picture until he gets it to look like he wants it to.

Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

Then another advantage of salt dough is that you can take a break and let it dry overnight before painting or bake in the oven until dry.

We baked it about 30 minutes and checked every 10 minutes or so.

Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

We could tell it was dry because it was hard and there were no soft spots and of course the cracks gave it away too that it was dry.

Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

Then Tiny mixed a few colors until he got the right color combination he wanted for the background and he painted that first. It dried pretty quickly.

Then he added a few other colors and overall this was such a fun and easy project to do while learning about Ancient Civilizations.

Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

Also, I love, love, using Home School in the Woods hands-on ideas and projects. You will too!

I have several other ideas to go with this Ancient Egypt Civilization project.

Look at these other posts you’ll love:

  • Hands-on Ancient Egypt: Israelite Mud Bricks for Kids
  • Fun Hands-On History: Ancient Egyptian Collar Craft
  • Ancient Egyptian Mathematics: Build a LEGO Math Calculator
  • Go to my Ancient Civilization page for a free lapbook on Ancient Egypt,
  • look at Ancient Civilization II which has Ancient Egypt minibooks and
  • Free Ancient Egypt Printable Board Game (Hands-on History).

Hugs and love ya,

Signature T
Make learning about Ancient Egypt come alive with this hands-on history project in this hands-on history ancient civilization series. Using salt dough, create a picture of King Narmer (also known as Menes) who wore the double crown. A kid of any age will love doing this. Click here how to do this with easy things you have around your house! | Tina’s Dynamic Homeschool Plus
Day 1. Ancient Egypt Civilization (Hands-on History): Narmer Crown

Don’t forget to follow BOTH of my Pinterest accounts for AWESOME pins.

Visit Tina Robertson’s profile on Pinterest.


Visit Tinas Dynamic Homeschool ‘s profile on Pinterest.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Ancient Civilizations, Hands-On Activities, History Based, History Resources Tagged With: ancient civilizations, ancientegypt, egypt, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history resources

Free The New Seven Wonders of the World Worksheet

November 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free new seven wonders of the world worksheet. Too, look at my pages Homeschool Geography and Ancient Civilizations for more hands-on and simple ideas. 

In 2007, millions of people from around the world voted to choose new symbols of human creativity and history. This list is of some of the most breathtaking and historically important places still standing today.

Free The New Seven Wonders of the World Worksheet

These wonders come from many different cultures and time periods. The results became known as the New Seven Wonders of the World.

And look at this list.

  • The Great Wall of China (China) – A massive defensive wall stretching more than 13,000 miles across mountains and valleys.
  • The Taj Mahal (India)- A marble mausoleum representing eternal love and one of Asia’s most cherished wonders.
  • Petra (Jordan)-A city carved into red sandstone cliffs, known for its impressive temples and the iconic Treasury.
  • Christ the Redeemer (Brazil)- A towering statue of Jesus overlooking Rio de Janeiro, symbolizing peace and faith.
  • Machu Picchu (Peru)- A mysterious Incan city hidden high in the Andes Mountains.
  • Chichen Itza (Mexico)-A Mayan pyramid that served as a ceremonial site and ancient observatory.
  • The Colosseum(Italy)-Rome’s enormous amphitheater, where gladiators once fought before cheering crowds.

BOOKS ABOUT THE NEW 7 WONDERS OF THE WORLD

First, look at these books about the new seven wonders of the world.

The New Seven Wonders of the World

These sites remind us of the creativity, skill, and imagination of people across history.

The Great Wall Of China (Aladdin Picture Books)

Angela FIsher's The Great Wall is an "awe-inspiring, impressive, black and gray illustrations set the tone for this history of the building of the Great Wall of China.

Christ the Redeemer (The Seven Wonders of the Modern World)

From its perch on the 2,310-foot-tall Mount Corcovado, Christ the Redeemer can be seen from miles away! This famous statue is a modern wonder and one of the worlds most popular tourist attractions. In this fascinating, fact-filled text, readers will explore the wonders history, from its original purpose to how it was built and how people use it today. Special features include a map, a timeline, a comparison graphic, a pop culture connection, and more!

Lost City: The Discovery of Machu Picchu

Caldecott Honor-winner Ted Lewin takes readers on a thrilling journey to the wilds of Peru in this story of Hiram Bingham, who, in 1911, carved a treacherous path through snake-filled jungles and across perilous mountains in search of Vilcapampa, the lost city of the Incas. Guided the last steps by a young Quechua boy, however, he discovered not the rumored lost city, but the ruins of Machu Picchu, a city totally unknown to the outside world, and one of the wonders of the world.

Where Is the Colosseum?

The Emperor Titus opened the enormous Colosseum in AD 80 to host 100 days of games, and it will astound readers to learn what the ancient Romans found entertaining. Over 50,000 screaming fans watched
gladiators battling each other to the death, men fighting exotic wild beasts, and even mock sea battles with warships floating on an arena floor flooded with water. By AD 476 the Roman Empire had fallen, and yet
the ruins of the Colosseum remain a world-famous landmark of an unforgettable time.

Where Is the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal may look like a palace, but it's actually a tomb and a lasting testament to one of the world's great love stories. In 1612, Mogul emperor Shah Jahan married Mumtaz Mahal. It had been love at first sight and for nineteen years they were so inseparable that Mumtaz even accompanied Shah Jahan to battlefields. When she died suddenly giving birth to their fourteenth child, the emperor set about building a magnificent memorial to his wife. Everything about the Taj was perfectly planned, from the white marble walls that shimmer in the sunlight and sparkle by moonlight, to the countless decorative flowers made from precious gems that still astound visitors today. Recent discoveries at the site make this a timely account of a timeless monument.

Petra: Jordan's extrordinary ancient city

The ruins of Petra, in today's Jordan, establish one of the most fascinating monumental complexes of the ancient world for the outstanding quality of the architecture and for the city's remarkable position.

Where Is Chichen Itza?

Although it's known more as an important tourist attraction today, the city of Chichen Itza was a powerful religious, political, scientific, and artistic center of the Maya people. Readers will learn about how Chichen Itza began and what happened to cause the downfall of a great society. The book also provides details about the
culture of the Maya of Chichen Itza and the stunning architecture they built like the El Castillo pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, and the massive ball court that was used for games and rituals.

Also, look at these hands-on activities.

HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES FOR THE NEW SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD

  • How To Make The Great Wall Of China Out Of Paper
  • Llama Love And Creative Machu Picchu Crafts for Kids
  • Cardboard Crafting: How to Make Your Own Taj Mahal Asian Activity
  • Geronimo Stilton Adventures The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time (Colosseum Craft)
  • Safari World LandmarksToob
  • Make a cardboard Chichén Itzá
Free The New Seven Wonders of the World Worksheet

You can turn this list into a hands-on geography lesson—mark each wonder on a world map or
assign each student one to research and present through art, writing, or crafts.

  • Geography- Label each of the Seven Wonders on a world map and color the continents they belong to.
  • History- Research the Mughal Empire and how it influenced Indian art, language, and architecture.
  • Math- Study symmetry by folding paper shapes or using graph paper to sketch a balanced design.
  • Cultures– Learn about Indian traditions—music, food, and festivals—to understand the region’s culture more deeply.
  • Art- Try using different mediums, like clay or sugar cubes, to recreate another world wonder.

Also, look at how to use the free notebooking pages.

I created a small text box next to each picture of the landmark. You child can write a few facts.

Then on the last page, there is a map of the countries. Your child can write the name of the landmaark at the bottom then put write the number of the landmark on the corresponding country.

This simplified map helps your child to locate the countries easier and gives a clear glance where they are in relation to each other.

HOW TO GET THE FREE NEW 7 WONDERS OF THE WORLD NOTEBOOKING PAGES

Now, how to grab the freebie.  It’s a subscriber freebie.

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

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic} Tagged With: ancient, ancient civilizations, geography, homeschool geography, homeschoolgeography, landmarks

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

September 26, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The Egyptian Cinderella is a great way to introduce children to fairy tales from other cultures and can be used as a base for a gentle study in ancient Egypt. Also, look at my Ancient Civilizations page about Ancient Egypt for more ideas!

Too, look at my page Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities for more ideas.

Most kids know the story of Cinderella, the girl with the glass slipper who becomes a princess. But did you know there’s an Egyptian version of the tale that’s even older than the one we usually hear?

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Shirley Climo’s beautiful picture book, The Egyptian Cinderella, retells the story of a real-life Greek girl named Rhodopis, who lived in Egypt over 2,000 years ago.

This makes it one of the earliest Cinderella stories in the world.

Rhodopis is stolen from her home in Greece and sold as a slave in Egypt. Unlike the other servant girls, she is kind, gentle, and loves animals.

Because she is different, she is often teased.

ANCIENT EGYPT BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at some books about Ancient Egypt before I summarize more of the story and share this fun craft.

17 Ancient Egypt Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

Add some of these books to your home library and use them for a day of learning or for unit studies.

The Egypt Game

The first time Melanie Ross meets April Hall, she’s not sure they have anything in common. But she soon discovers that they both love anything to do with ancient Egypt. When they stumble upon a deserted storage yard, Melanie and April decide it’s the perfect spot for the Egypt Game. Before long there are six Egyptians, and they all meet to wear costumes, hold ceremonies, and work on their secret code. Everyone thinks it’s just a game until strange things start happening. Has the Egypt Game gone too far?

Tales of Ancient Egypt (Puffin Classics)

These stories include the great myths - of Amen-Ra, who created all the creatures in the world; of Isis, seaching the waters for her dead husband Osiris; of the Bennu Bird and the Book of Thoth. But there are also tales told for pleasure about magic, treasure and adventure - even the first ever Cinderella story.

The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt (Landmark Books)

For more than 3,000 years, Egypt was a great civilization that thrived along the banks of the Nile River. But when its cities crumbled to dust, Egypt’s culture and the secrets of its hieroglyphic writings were also lost. The Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt explains how archaeologists have pieced together their discoveries to slowly reveal the history of Egypt’s people, its pharaohs, and its golden days.

The Buildings of Ancient Egypt

Uses archeological evidence to describe the construction, decoration, and furnishings of ancient Egyptian tombs, pyramids, and homes

Science in Ancient Egypt (Science of the Past)

Discusses the achievements of the ancient Egyptians in science, mathematics, astronomy, medicine, agriculture, and technology.

Great Ancient Egypt Projects: You Can Build Yourself

From reed boats, papyrus, and amulets, to pyramids, pharaohs, and mummies, Great Ancient Egypt Projects You Can Build Yourself explores the fascinating lives of ancient Egyptians through more than25 hands-on building projects and activities. Great Ancient Egypt Projects You Can Build Yourself gives readers today a chance to experience how the ancient Egyptians lived, cooked, worked, worshipped, entertained themselves, and interacted with their neighbors through building projects that use common household supplies.Detailed step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and templates for creating each project are combined with historical facts and anecdotes, biographies, and trivia for the real-life models of each project. Together they give kids a first-hand look at daily life in ancient Egypt.

The Cat of Bubastes: A Tale of Ancient Egypt (Dover Children's Classics)

Chebron, the young son of an Egyptian high priest, and Amuba, a young slave in the boy's household, are close friends; but their lives are greatly altered when Chebron accidentally kills a cat, an animal held sacred by the ancient Egyptians. Forced to flee for their safety, the boys and their companions begin a long and dangerous journey. A thrilling adventure story, this is also a tale packed with historical facts. Among other fascinating details, young readers learn about the Egyptian religion and geography, how the Nile was used for irrigation, and how the Egyptians made war and were prepared for burial. A captivating book that accurately describes life in a once magnificent civilization, this volume will especially appeal to youngsters fascinated by the life and customs of ancient Egypt.

A History of Ancient Egypt: From the First Farmers to the Great Pyramid (A History of Ancient Egypt, 1)

The ancient world comes to life in the first volume in a two book series on the history of Egypt, spanning the first farmers to the construction of the pyramids. Famed archaeologist John Romer draws on a lifetime of research to tell one history's greatest stories; how, over more than a thousand years, a society of farmers created a rich, vivid world where one of the most astounding of all human-made landmarks, the Great Pyramid, was built. Immersing the reader in the Egypt of the past, Romer examines and challenges the long-held theories about what archaeological finds mean and what stories they tell about how the Egyptians lived. More than just an account of one of the most fascinating periods of history, this engrossing book asks readers to take a step back and question what they've learned about Egypt in the past. Fans of Stacy Schiff's Cleopatra and history buffs will be captivated by this re-telling of Egyptian history, written by one of the top Egyptologists in the world.

Boy of the Pyramids

The pictured wall of an Egyptian tomb supplied the inspiration for this unusual story, which takes place during the building of the Great Pyramid of Khufu more than 4,000 years ago. Kaffe and Sari, an Egyptian noble's son and a slave girl from the nomadic Sand People of the Sinai region, help solve a troublesome mystery and trap its culprit. All told against a colorfully detailed backdrop of ancient Egypt.

The Golden Goblet

Ranofer wants only one thing in the world: to be a master goldsmith like his beloved father was. But how can he when he is all but imprisoned by his evil half brother, Gebu? Ranofer knows the only way he can escape Gebu's abuse is by changing his destiny. But can a poor boy with no skills survive on the cutthroat streets of ancient Thebes? Then Ranofer finds a priceless golden goblet in Gebu's room and he knows his luck−and his destiny−are about to change.

Seeker of Knowledge: The Man Who Deciphered Egyptian Hieroglyphs

In 1802, Jean-Francois Champollion was eleven years old. That year, he vowed to be the first person to read Egypt’s ancient hieroglyphs. Champollion’s dream was to sail up the Nile in Egypt and uncover the secrets of the past, and he dedicated the next twenty years to the challenge.James Rumford introduces the remarkable man who deciphered the ancient Egyptian script and fulfilled a lifelong dream in the process. Stunning watercolors bring Champollion’s adventure to life in a story that challenges the mind and touches the heart.

The Egyptian Cinderella

This Egyptian spin on the classic Cinderella tale was initially recorded in the first century by a Roman historian and is retold here by folklorist Shirley Climo.

Poor Rhodopis! She has nothing—no mother or father, and no friends. She is a slave, from the far-off country of Greece. Only the beautiful rose-red slippers her master gives her can make Rhodopis smile.

So when a falcon swoops down and snatches one of the slippers away, Rhodopis is heartbroken. For how is she to know that the slipper will land in the lap of the great Pharaoh himself? And who would ever guess that the Pharaoh has promised to find the slipper’s owner and make her queen of all Egypt?

Augustus Caesar's World

In her unique approach, Foster weaves a story of the world around her central character; rather than focusing exclusively on geo-political events, as most textbooks do, she includes stories of scientific discovery and invention, music, literature, art, and religion. Her keen intuition for stories will especially delight and amuse youthful readers. In Augustus Caesar's World, Foster traces the seven major civilizations of Rome, Greece, Israel, Egypt, China, India, and Persia from 4500 B.C. to the time of Augustus Caesar in 44 B.C. and culminating in 14 A.D. Within this timeframe readers will learn not only the stories of Julius Caesar, Cleopatra, and Marc Antony, but also the historian Livy and how Virgil came to write the Aeneid. Foster will then take her readers all over the world to learn what was happening at this same time in China, Persia, India and so on. Foster's detailed pen and ink drawings are fresh and appealing, and her illustrated timelines give a clear sense of chronology, enriching the engaging text.

The Lost Queen of Egypt: The Tomb of Nefertiti

For professor of Egyptology Henry Markham, this would be the crowning glory of his career: an intact tomb of Nefertiti, the great royal wife of Akhenaten and the heretic pharaoh of eighteenth dynasty Egypt, whose bust of exquisite beauty resides in the Berlin Museum, which he had searched for the last ten years. He had an unspoken passion for her only excelled by his young assistant, Steven Sinclair, whose visions and dreams of her haunted him, much to the annoyance of Helen Carter, the freelance journalist on-site who, with her business partner Mike Mitcham, the digs photographer, saw Nefertiti as a rival for his affections. Thanks to a gambling debt, Mike finds himself the proud owner of a large luxury mobile home that four Mossad agents are interested in, along with Emil Brogini, who did a drug deal with two Mossad rogue agents since deceased. The arrival of Henry's estranged sister, Millicent, with her friend Jane Evesham, a gifted clairvoyant, does nothing to improve his temper, especially when Jane tells him they are in great danger. Can the danger come from four renegade Mossad agents or Emil Bratislav Brogini, Mr. Big in Cairo, into every racket going? Jane discovers that Helen has a latent gift of clairvoyance which, with their combined powers in a séance, sends them back to the eighteenth dynasty with Nefertiti, Akhenaten, and danger around every corner as they try to discover who is trying to kill them all using a large band of Libyan bandits. They survive ambushes, assassin's knives, and chariot chases, finally getting back to their own time with Nefertiti.

Pyramid

Pyramid is a strong resource for readers looking to expand their knowledge of ancient Egyptian civilization, history, and architecture.

Award-winning author-illustrator David Macaulay explores the philosophy of life and death in ancient Egypt through richly detailed black-and-white illustrations and clear, concise text.

Though created with middle grade readers in mind, all with interest in the topic will enjoy this impressive look at what many consider to be one of the most awesome of humankind's creations.

Pharaoh's Boat

With poetic language and striking illustrations, Weitzman tells the story of how one of the greatest boats of ancient Egypt came to be built and built again.In the shadow of the Great Pyramid at Giza, the most skilled shipwrights in all of Egypt are building an enormous vessel that will transport Cheops, the mighty pharaoh, across the winding waterway and into a new world. Pharaoh's boat will be a wonder to behold, and well prepared for the voyage ahead. But no one, not even the Egyptian king himself, could have imagined just where the journey of Pharaoh's boat would ultimately lead.

The Winged Cat

Merit is a servant girl in the temple of cat goddesses. In a rage, Waha, the High Priest, kills a sacred car, and Merit sees him do it.But when Merit reports the evil deed to Pharaoh, Waha denies that he is guilty.

Now, look at a quick summary about this fun book.

THE EGYPTIAN CINDERELLA

One day, Rhodopis is given a pair of beautiful rose-red slippers.

When she goes to wash clothes by the river, the falcon, the sacred bird of the god Horus, swoops down and snatches one of her slippers.

The falcon drops it into the lap of Pharaoh Amasis.

Believing it to be a sign, the Pharaoh searches all of Egypt for the woman who owns the slipper.

When he finds Rhodopis, he marries her, making her a queen of Egypt.

Just like in the glass slipper tale we know, it’s the shoe that changes her life.

So, to cap off the reading of this delightful story we are going to craft your child their very own pair of rose slippers fit for a princess.

First, look at these questions to use for discussion.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR THE EGYPTIAN CINDERELLA

To extend the learning here are some discussion questions to use after you finish the story that will deepen their understanding and develop their vocabulary.

  • How is Rhodopis different from the other servant girls? How do they treat her?
  • What details in the story let you know that it takes place in Ancient Egypt?
  • Why do you think Rhodopis was kind to the animals, even if people weren’t kind to her?
  • What does the Pharaoh think when the falcon drops the slipper into his lap?
  • How does the slipper change Rhodopis’ life?
  • How is this story similar to the Cinderella you already know with the glass slipper?
  • What is different about the Egyptian version of the story?
  • Why do you think many cultures have their own Cinderella story?
  • What lesson can we learn from this story about how to treat others?
How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Next, look at more activities about Ancient Egypt.

MORE ANCIENT EGYPT ACTIVITIES

  • The Vanishing Of Queen Nefertiti Free Ancient Egypt Printable
  • Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities
  • 11 Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Projects for Middle School
  • Hands-on Ancient Egypt: Israelite Mud Bricks for Kids
  • Fun and Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Craft: Create Canopic Jars
  • Ancient Egyptian Mathematics: Build a LEGO Math Calculator
  • Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO
  • Egypt Crafts For Kindergarten Create a Fun Kid Sized Mummy
  • Make a beautiful Cleopatra Collar and Cuffs to wear.
How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Finally, look at how to craft red slippers inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella.

HOW TO CRAFT RED SLIPPERS INSPIRED BY THE EGYPTIAN CINDERELLA

Most of this craft is for adults to assemble because it requires a hot glue gun or you can sew them together but a child can add the tacky glue and glitter to decorate their slippers.

You will need:

  • 2-3 red 8×12 felt sheets
  • Tacky glue
  • glitter
  • Hot glue gun/sticks
How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

First, grab a cute little foot and trace around it right on the felt, or use a piece of paper for a template.

Add a ¼” all the way around for the “seam” and go a little further for a pointed toe on the slipper.

Cut a piece of red felt in half long ways and then in half again to make 4 long strips.

Cut out your foot base.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

On the “backside” of the foot, add several lines of hot glue from top to bottom to create grippers so your child won’t slip on smooth flooring, allowing it to cool and harden.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Begin assembling the slipper by running short beads of hot glue along the edge of your foot piece.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Then set the edge of the long strip into it, holding in place until the glue sets.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Continue moving all the way around to the center of the point.  I recommend starting at the center of the heel.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Repeat with the other strip, beginning at the heel and ending at the toe, cut off the excess on one side.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

At this point, you can try your child’s foot in the slipper and make any alterations you need to make them fit well, like tacking the sides down together or trimming the sides so they don’t sit so high on their foot.

Fold the other side over and glue in place, overlapping the trimmed piece, then trim off the excess.

How to Craft Red Slippers Inspired by The Egyptian Cinderella

Let your child add a scrolling design with tacky or school glue and then sprinkle with glitter, tapping off the excess.

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

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

September 6, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This is so much more than just a list of Ancient Greek Philosophers; it includes activity ideas and lots of great facts. Also, look at my page Fun Ancient Greece Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook and look at my second free Ancient Greece Lapbook for more ideas.

When you think about the foundation of Western civilization, Ancient Greece should come to mind. The Greeks contributed much to art, government, architecture, science, and most importantly, philosophy.

Philosophy means “the love of wisdom,” and the philosophers of Ancient Greece were seekers of truth.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

They asked big questions about life, the universe, morality, and human behavior. Their answers shaped a lot of how we think today.

In your homeschool, studying Ancient Greek philosophers is a wonderful way to combine history, literature, and critical thinking.

To make our lesson even more memorable, we’ll also create a fun hands-on project, a Greek-inspired wreath, just like the ones given to poets, athletes, philosophers, and leaders thousands of years ago.

ANCIENT GREECE BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these books about Ancient Greece.

8 Living History Books about Ancient Greece

You'll love this roundup of living history books about Ancient Greece.

D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths

In print for over fifty years, D'Aulaires Book of Greek Myths has introduced generations to Greek mythology—and continues to enthrall young readers. Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today. No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come. “For any child fortunate enough to have this generous book . . . the kings and heroes of ancient legend will remain forever matter-of-fact; the pictures interpret the text literally and are full of detail and witty observation.”—The Horn Book

Ancient Greece for Kids Through the Lives of its Philosophers, Lawmakers, and Heroes (History for Kids - Traditional, Story-Based Format)

The suggested reader age for this book is 8 to 14 years old. To write this book, I went back to Herodotus, Plutarch, Diogenes Laertius, and other ancient sources of biographical anecdotes, and extracted from them the stories that will be most memorable to a modern kid. I retold them without adding any fictional color. I have omitted some things, however. Anything gruesome or seriously cruel is not included. Anything off-color, or outside traditional-family-friendly morality is not included. I have included only accounts of the most major battles, and without much detail. Battles are important, but as a kid - maybe as a girl - I was falling asleep over the ancient battles. Politics: Again, I have included only major turns of events.

I wove the information about the social order and geography of Ancient Greece into the stories of the era's historical figures. So, no worries, the kid will learn about the Agora and Acropolis of Athens, the city-states of Corinth and Sparta, daily life in an Ancient Greek household, the major Greek temples, and the three orders of Ancient Greek architecture. This book is richly illustrated. I don't agree that if you are 13 or 16 you should be content with pages and pages of text and no pictures. Illustrations help both kids and grownups to visualize - and therefore to remember - events and descriptions. I have illustrated the book mostly with paintings portraying historical figures or everyday life in classical Greece. Whenever I could, I chose late 19th century and early 20th century art over the older neoclassical paintings for a more accurate representation of the Ancient Greek costume and environment.

The Iliad for Boys and Girls

The Iliad is typically described as one of the greatest war stories of all time. Set during the Trojan War, this timeless poem vividly conveys the horror and heroism of men and gods wrestling with towering emotions and battling amid devastation and destruction. Homer's tale is a compassionate view of human life lived under the shadow of suffering and death in the face of an often uncaring divinity.

Archimedes and the Door of Science (Living History Library)

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.

The Great Philosophers: Socrates, Plato & Aristotle - Ancient Greece - 5th Grade Biography - Children's Biographies

You have probably heard about Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. When it comes to ancient minds who created foundations in philosophy, science, and math, these three names would automatically come up. But what exactly did they do to warrant immense respect and admiration? Well, your fifth grader will soon find out from this biography book.

Marathon Looks on the Sea

Illustrated by Erwin Schachner. The story of the Battle of Marathon and how it determined the future of Athens.

Life in Ancient Athens (Picture the Past)

What was it like to live in Ancient Athens? All the people who lived in ancient Greece spoke the same language and worshipped the same gods and goddesses. But they all lived in different city states a city and the land around it that it controlled. These city states were all run differently, and there were often fights between them. Despite their differences, there were things that united the city states. Find out more in this exciting title.

Growing Up In Ancient Greece (Growing Up In series)

Describes daily life in ancient Greece, discussing life in the city, life in the country, school, ceremonies and festivals, food, and other aspects

Ancient Greek philosophers are more than names in a textbook. They were the first people to explore important questions like…

  • What makes a good life?
  • How should people be governed?
  • What is the truth, and how do we find it?
  • Is the universe made of matter, numbers, or something else?

LIST OF ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHERS

Teaching kids about these thinkers helps them practice reasoning skills, debate, and curiosity—the very heart of learning. Even young students can appreciate their ideas when explained in simple terms, and teens can dive into deeper discussions.

Socrates (470–399 BC)

  • Known as the “Father of Western Philosophy.”
  • Famous for the Socratic Method, where he asked questions instead of giving direct answers, helping students think for themselves.
  • He believed that truth could be discovered through conversation and self-examination.
  • He was put on trial in Athens and sentenced to death for “corrupting the youth” by encouraging them to question authority.

Hands-On: Have your kids try the Socratic Method by asking each other open-ended questions instead of answering with “yes” or “no.”

Plato (428–348 BC)

  • Student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle.
  • Founded the Academy in Athens, one of the first institutions of higher learning in the world.
  • Wrote The Republic, a book exploring justice and the idea of a perfect society.
  • Believed in the existence of “ideal forms,” meaning everything in the physical world is only a shadow of a greater, perfect reality.

Hands-on: Ask your child what their “ideal” home, homeschool, or community would look like. This connects directly to Plato’s ideas about the ideal society and is a great way to give your child a voice in how their schooling works.

 Aristotle (384–322 BC)

  • Student of Plato and tutor to Alexander the Great.
  • Wrote extensively on science, ethics, art, government, and logic.
  • Believed knowledge comes from observing the natural world.
  • Organized information into categories that influenced how we study science and philosophy today.

Hands-on: Take a nature walk and encourage students to classify what they see (plants, animals, rocks). This mirrors Aristotle’s method of observation and categorization.

Pythagoras (570–495 BC)

  • Both a philosopher and a mathematician.
  • Best known for the Pythagorean Theorem in geometry.
  • Believed numbers were the foundation of the universe.
  • Founded a school where math, music, and philosophy were studied together.

Hands-on: Explore musical patterns (like scales) or geometric shapes to show how math and beauty connect—just like Pythagoras taught.

ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHERS

Heraclitus (535–475 BC)

  • Believed that change is the only constant in life.
  • Known for saying, “You cannot step into the same river twice.”
  • His philosophy emphasized that the world is always in motion.

Hands-on: Using water as an example of change, pour it into a cup, freeze it into ice, or boil it into steam.  This is a great demonstration of how change is constant.

Epicurus (341–270 BC)

  • Believed happiness comes from simple pleasures, friendship, and freedom from fear.
  • Taught that peace of mind is better than wealth or power.
  • His philosophy became known as Epicureanism.

Hands-on: Encourage your learner to make a “simple joy list” of things that make them happy (a good book, a walk, family time). This ties directly to Epicurus’ teaching.

Zeno of Citium (334–262 BC)

  • Founded the philosophy of Stoicism.
  • Believed in self-control, courage, and living according to nature.
  • Stoics taught that while we cannot control what happens to us, we can control how we respond.

Hands-on: Put stoicism into practice, role-play scenarios where you practice calm responses to frustrations like losing a game.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

Then look at these ancient Greek philosopher activities.

ANCIENT GREEK PHILOSOPHER ACTIVITIES

  • Philosopher Spotlight Project- Give your child one philosopher to research and then give a short presentation or skit wearing their wreath.
  • Socratic Debate- Pick a silly but fun question like, “Is it better to have cats or dogs?” and let students debate by only asking questions.
  • Greek Philosopher “Plato” Mat- How awesome is this playdough mat for younger kids and I think even older ones will enjoy the challenge of creating playdough versions of these Greek philosophers.
  • Greek Banquet Day – Prepare a simple Greek-inspired meal (olives, grapes, bread, Ambrosia of The Gods, cheese) and have kids wear their wreaths to celebrate.
  • Philosophy Journal – Encourage students to keep a notebook where they write their answers to “big questions”.
  • Make a Wreath- In Ancient Greece, wreaths made from olive branches, ivy, or laurel leaves symbolized honor, achievement, and victory. Wreaths also were worn in ceremonies and festivals. Olive wreaths were awarded to winners of the Olympic Games. Laurel wreaths were given to poets, scholars, and military leaders, so naturally, we are going to create a laurel wreath today.
Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

Next, look at these ancient Greece hands-on activities.

  • Fun Ancient Greece Activities To Learn From The Great Minds
  • Hands-On Ancient Greece Study: Politics and Pottery
  • 9 EASY and Fun Hands-on Ancient Greece Kids Activities
  • Ancient Greece (Hands-on Science)
  • Free Ancient Greece Go Fish Game – Ancient Greece Unit Study
  • Ancient Greece Unit Study Play Stomachion Like Archimedes {Explore Geometry}
  • Hands-on Activity Ancient Greece Chariot
  • Ancient Greece Hands-on Activity Refraction
  • Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts – Great Big List of Ancient Greece Freebies
  • 13 Living History Books about Ancient Greece
  • Cursive and Free Greece Copywork Poetry
  • Geronimo Stilton The Race Against Time Build a Fun Greek Water Clock
  • Easy Hands-on Fun Ancient Greek Games for Kids DIY Knucklebones
  • How to Make a Trojan Horse Craft | Fascinating Trojan Horse History
  • Geronimo Stilton Race Against Time And Make Pottery Like Ancient Greeks
  • Free Greek Mythology Unit Study and Greece Lapbook & Fun Hands on LEGO Zeus
  • How to Make a Cool Greek Mythology Triorama With Kids

Finally, look at how to make a fun ancient Greece wreath.

HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN ANCIENT GREEK WREATH

You will need:

  • Pipe cleaners, or a plain headband (to form the base)
  • Green felt, or artificial leaves
  • Scissors
  • Hot glue gun

First, bend wire or pipe cleaners into a circle (crown size) or use a headband as the base.

We had this thin gold one on hand that no one wore anymore, and it worked perfectly but to make the “leaves” have more to adhere to I glued a strip of felt all the way around the outside.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

If you are using pipe cleaners, you will want to braid a few together to make it sturdier.

Cut out leaf shapes from green felt or use artificial leaves from the craft store. Laurel leaves are long and pointed.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

Layer the leaves onto the base, gluing them so they overlap like scales.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

To finish off the inside and make it comfortable, you can glue on another felt strip to cover everything up.

Great Minds Of The Past: List Of Ancient Greek Philosophers & How to Make A Wreath

That’s it, so simple!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: ancient civilizations, Ancient Greece, greek, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling

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