geography

The Ultimate Guide to Brave Explorers (Great and Small)

March 12, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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Whether they were the world’s bravest explorers or the world barely noticed their bravery, this ultimate guide to great explorers, both great and small, will give you a starting point for in-depth learning about some of these fascinating explorers and their journeys. Also, look at my page Hands-On Simple And Best Homeschool Geography Ideas & Tips.

Learning about great explorers and seeing events, places, and everyday life unfold through their eyes allows you and your children to go to places you may have never been.

The Ultimate Guide to Brave Explorers (Great and Small)

If nothing else, it will give you a glimpse of the determination, bravery, and fortitude explorers exhibited.

Hopefully, you’ll come away with both a more adventurous spirit and a deeper respect for other parts of the world.

IDEAS FOR GEOGRAPHY EXPLORATION INSPIRATION

I’ve alphabetized the explorers by their last name to make it easier for you to locate each one. In cases when an explorer’s last name is not given or known, I’ve listed each by his only name or first name known.

Sometimes more than one explorer navigated the same region but presented their journeys from a different view.

I think it’s easier to list them by name so that you get the full benefit of their individual perspectives, instead of breaking down this ultimate to great explorers by the region each explored.

GENERAL POSTS, DOWNLOADS, PRINTABLES AND UNIT STUDIES

The Great Age of Exploration (1400–1550) 46 page teacher guide on a variety of explorers.
Navigation Finding Your Way 10 pages.
Spanish and Portuguese Exploration Guides. Nice!
Those Who Have Come Before Me 7 page lesson plan about space exploration.
European Explorers of North and South America 13 page lesson plan.
Spain and America: From Reconquest to Conquest

Early Explorers teacher guide on a variety of explorers.
European Exploration, Trade and Colonization 22 free unit guide.
Exploring the World
Exploring the Moon Educators Guide – 158 page free download.
Hands-on Explorers Unit Study.
The Great Age of Exploration 67 pages.
Explore the Explorers Online
Free Continent Map.
European Exploration & Trade 22 pages.

HANDS-ON IDEAS AND ACTIVITIES ABOUT EXPLORERS

3-D Maps. Create a 3-D topographical map.
Learning longitude and latitude using an orange – 6 page download.
Free Explorers Notebook Pages
Age of Exploration Ideas – Taste foods from different countries.
Free Writing prompts About Explorers.
North American Explorers WebQuest

Make a balloon globe.
European Explorers Word Search Puzzle
Make Explorers Ships with Toilet Paper Tube Sail – for art.
Postcards from the Explorers.
Age of Exploration Games, videos and resources.
The Discovery of the Americas Play

B

VASCO NUNEZ DE BALBOA EXPLORER

DANIEL BOONE NORTH AMERICAN EXPLORER

Free Lapbook and Unit Study
Read Boone’s own account of his “Adventures,” published in 1874.
Early Exploration of the West Daniel Boone, Cumberland Gap, Wilderness Trail

The Wilderness Road.
Daniel Boone Picture Book Lesson

C

SAMUEL DE CHAMPLAIN

Champlain in America
Champlain Reaches the Lake 32 pages.

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS

Columbus 10-page workbook.

FRANCISCO VASQUEZ DE CORONADO

HERNANDO CORTES

D

BARTOLOMEU DIAS

Social Sciences HISTORY Teacher’s Guide –

SIR FRANCIS DRAKE

G

VASCO DA GAMA

Early Modern Britain 96 page teacher’s guide
Europe Discovers the Riches of India.

H

HENRY HUDSON

Henry Hudson Free Games and Activities.
Henry Hudson Lesson Plan

L

JUAN PONCE DE LEON

M

FERDINAND MAGELLAN

How Magellan circumnavigated the globe.
Ferdinand Magellan Voyages of Discovery YouTube
Ferdinand Magellan: A Man of His Time.

P

FRANCISCO PIZARRO

Machu Picchu: Unveiling the Mystery of the Incas
Cortes & Pizarro Teacher’s Guide – 2 page.

MARCO POLO

Marco Polo Resource Guide 48 pages.
Marco Polo and the Silk Road Lesson Plan

R

SIR WALTER RALEIGH

S

HERNANDO DE SOTO

Hernando De Soto
De Soto’s Discovery of the Mississippi

V

AMERIGO VESPUCCI

Videos

The contributions of female explorers.
Age of Exploration – A Short Documentary Film

MORE GEOGRAPHY RESOURCES

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How To Make A Mini Mount Rushmore & Landmarks Of USA

February 18, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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Let’s take a tour of the landmarks of USA to explore our country. I have a fun tutorial to recreate a mini Mount Rushmore art piece. Too, look at my page Homeschool Geography for hands-on and simple ideas and tips.

When we think about the United States, it’s not just dates in history books or names of presidents that we remember- it’s the places that bring those stories to life.

From the towering Statue of Liberty greeting newcomers in New York Harbor, to the sweeping views of the Grand Canyon, to the shining steel of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, landmarks remind us of the struggles, dreams, and triumphs that shaped our nation.

How To Make A Mini Mount Rushmore & Landmarks Of USA

For homeschool families, studying landmarks is a wonderful way to make history hands-on. Landmarks connect geography, civics, art, and culture all in one lesson. Kids can point them out on a map, learn the events or people behind them, and then bring their knowledge to life with a creative project.

One of the most recognizable landmarks in the country is Mount Rushmore, carved into the Black Hills of South Dakota. Featuring the faces of four presidents—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln—this monument stands as a symbol of leadership and American history.

By learning about Mount Rushmore and recreating it with air-dry clay, students will not only discover the story of the presidents but also gain an appreciation for the artistry and engineering behind the landmark itself.

Remember, this project is less about developing your child’s professional sculpting skills and more about learning. We had more than a few laughs with our attempt at recreating the presidents.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT FAMOUS USA LANDMARKS

First, look at some books to use with your lesson todays.

10 Books About Famous U.S.A. Landmarks

Landmarks tell stories from the past. Kids learn about ancient civilizations, wars, inventions, and important people.

Let Liberty Rise!: How America’s Schoolchildren Helped Save the Statue of Liberty

On America's 100th birthday, the people of France built a giant gift! It was one of the largest statues the world had ever seen -- and she weighed as much as 40 elephants! And when she arrived on our shores in 250 pieces, she needed a pedestal to hold her up. Few of America's millionaires were willing to foot the bill.

Pop's Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge. The impossible bridge, some call it. They say it can't be built. But Robert's father is building it. He's a skywalker--a brave, high-climbing ironworker. Robert is convinced his pop has the most important job on the crew . . . until a frightening event makes him see that it takes an entire team to accomplish the impossible. When it was completed in 1937, San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge was hailed as an international marvel. Eve Bunting's riveting story salutes the ingenuity and courage of every person who helped raise this majestic American icon. Includes an author's note about the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Grand Canyon: (Caldecott Honor Book)

Rivers wind through earth, cutting down and eroding the soil for millions of years, creating a cavity in the ground 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and more than a mile deep known as the Grand Canyon.Home to an astonishing variety of plants and animals that have lived and evolved within its walls for millennia, the Grand Canyon is much more than just a hole in the ground. Follow a father and daughter as they make their way through the cavernous wonder, discovering life both present and past. Weave in and out of time as perfectly placed die cuts show you that a fossil today was a creature much long ago, perhaps in a completely different environment. Complete with a spectacular double gatefold, an intricate map and extensive back matter.

Brighty of the Grand Canyon (Marguerite Henry Horseshoe Library)

Long ago, a lone little burro roamed the high cliffs of the Grand Canyon and touched the hearts of all who knew him: a grizzled old miner, a big-game hunter, even President Teddy Roosevelt. Named Brighty by the prospector who befriended him, he remained a free spirit at heart. But when a ruthless claim-jumper murdered the prospector, loyal Brighty risked everything to bring the killer to justice. Brighty’s adventures have delighted generations of readers, and he has become the symbol of a joyous way of life. Some people say that you can even see his spirit roving the canyon on moonlit nights—forever wild, forever free.

Our White House: Looking In, Looking Out

Conceived and co-created by the National Children’s Book and Literary Alliance, this outstanding collection of essays, personal accounts, historical fiction, and poetry melds with an equally stunning array of original art to offer a look at America’s history through the prism of the White House. Starting with a 1792 call for designers and continuing through the present day, these highly engaging writings and illustrations, expressing varied viewpoints and interwoven with key historical events, are a vital resource for family and classroom sharing — and a stirring reminder that the story of the White House is the story of every American.Back matter includes source notes, notes on contributor, and an index.

Rushmore

A compelling narrative and realistic paintings describe how Mount Rushmore, a patriotic shrine and tourist attraction, was conceived, designed, and created by the dedicated artist and son of immigrants, Gutzon Borglum.

Who Carved the Mountain?: The Story of Mount Rushmore

Using historical facts and rollicking rhythm, author Jean L.S. Patrick reveals how the mountain was carved and why George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt were chosen. Rich illustrations by Renée Graef make the unique history of Mount Rushmore come alive for children.

Kennedy Space Center: Gateway to Space

NASA's John F. Kennedy Space Center set the stage for the American adventure into space and went on to host a succession of rocket launches that have helped to form our understanding of the nature of the universe.

The Kennedy Space Center is a major tourist attraction in Florida, but most of its doors remain locked to the public. This abundantly illustrated book is an insider's history of the heart of America's space program, including detailed information on:

The earliest development of rockets in the United States and Germany
The development of rockets and their launch facilities
The missile race and the U.S.-Soviet rivalry to be first in space
The great Apollo program and the race to the moon
The shuttle program, the Space Station and the Hubble Telescope
The future of space exploration

Famous Landmarks For Kids: Famous Buildings and Landmarks Then and Now - Geography Book for Kids

The book generates interest in historical buildings and develops observation skills. It also develops their aesthetic sensibilities and instills an appreciation of elements of architecture and our cultural heritage, in this book you will find the most famous monuments and know their stories.Learn all about famous landmarks in this book for kids from Taj Maha,The Great Wall Of China, Opera House and more

Landmarks (Discovery Concepts)

Touch and learn.Applying the tactile features of Montessori teaching, this innovative board book uses enhanced spot UV treatments to teach little ones about famous monuments from around the world, including the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and the Great Wall of China. One-of-a-kind colorful illustrations, sturdy board pages, and no moveable parts make this a unique addition to an early learning collection.About the Discovery Concepts series: Discovery Concepts books celebrate Montessori’s curious discovery approach to learning. Maria Montessori believed “the hand is the chief teacher of the brain,” encouraging students to learn by touch and created specially designed materials such as sandpaper letters to support this method. Inspired by her teachings, each book in the Discovery Concepts board book collection uses tactile enhancements to engage young children in discovering the topic at hand. Beyond the tactile elements each title is designed to capture a child’s imagination and curiosity as they learn.

Then, look at some facts for kids about landmarks.

FAMOUS LANDMARKS OF USA

STATUE OF LIBERTY (NEW YORK, NY)

A gift from France in 1886, the Statue of Liberty is a worldwide symbol of freedom and democracy.
The statue’s full name is “Liberty Enlightening the World,” and its torch represents hope and enlightenment.

LIBERTY BELL (PHILADELPHIA, PA)

The famous crack appeared sometime in the early 1800s, and though it can’t be rung anymore, it’s one of the most visited symbols of freedom in the U.S.
This cracked but powerful symbol of independence rang during the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence.

THE WHITE HOUSE (WASHINGTON, D.C.)

Home to every U.S. president since John Adams, it represents our government and leadership.
The White House has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and its own movie theater and bowling alley.

Look at How to Build a Fun White House Sugar Cube George Washington Craft to create this and look at this The White House Cut & Assemble.

GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE (SAN FRANCISCO, CA)

Once the longest suspension bridge in the world, this bright orange landmark connects San Francisco to Marin County.
The bridge’s unique “International Orange” paint was chosen because it stands out in San Francisco’s fog.

GRAND CANYON (ARIZONA)

A natural wonder carved by the Colorado River, it’s one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
The Grand Canyon is so large it actually creates its own weather. The temperature at the top (the rim) can be over 20 degrees cooler than at the bottom.

GATEWAY ARCH (ST. LOUIS, MO)

Known as the “Gateway to the West,” this shining steel arch celebrates America’s expansion.
At 630 feet tall, it’s the tallest man-made monument in the United States.

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING (NEW YORK, NY)

A symbol of American innovation and once the tallest building in the world.
It was built in just 410 days during the Great Depression, finishing ahead of schedule in 1931.

MOUNT RUSHMORE (SOUTH DAKOTA)

Mount Rushmore, our focus project, is located in South Dakota in the Black Hills. It is one of the most famous American monuments and features four past presidents:

Built between 1927 and 1941, it took hundreds of workers using dynamite, drills, and chisels to complete.

George Washington – First U.S. President and Revolutionary War leader.
Thomas Jefferson – Author of the Declaration of Independence.
Theodore Roosevelt – Known for conservation and building the Panama Canal.
Abraham Lincoln – President during the Civil War and the end of slavery.

Then, look at these additional activities for learning about landmarks.

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR LANDMARKS OF USA

Find each landmark on a U.S. map as part of your geography. I love The 50 States Atlas for colorful fun maps of each state, fun facts, stats, and images.

Watch a documentary or virtual tour of a U.S. landmark.

Research why the landmark is important and what it represents to learn about our nation’s history.

Create a journal entry as if your child were visiting the landmark.

Use these US landmark toob figures to make a diorama for older kids or use them in a sensory bin to introduce them to preschoolers.

Recreate a landmark through a hands-on project like drawing, painting, or clay sculpting.

Make a landmark passport: each time you study one, stamp or sticker it in a notebook.

Write a short biography of each Mount Rushmore president.

Build another landmark at 7 National Landmarks USA | How To Make A Fun Statue Of Liberty Torch Craft.

Finally, look at how to make this mini Mount Rushmore.

MOUNT RUSHMORE IN AIR-DRY CLAY ART PROJECT

You will need:

Air-dry clay (white or gray works best)
Wood or cardboard base
Sculpting tools (toothpicks, butter knives, pencils work too)
acrylic paint
Paintbrush

Find an inspirational photo online to work from and print it off.

Paint your wood or cardboard base to look like the sky, the perfect backdrop and set it aside to dry.

I found this wooden plaque at Dollar Tree for an inexpensive but neat backdrop.

Roll four ovals and mold and sculpt each using your hands as well as clay tools.

I don’t really have a tutorial for this, but a few techniques to help you.

Use tools to gently mark eyes, noses, mouths, and simple hair or beards.

The edge of a tool or a popsicle stick makes great lines for Roosevelt’s beard and gives texture to the hair.

Roll thin pieces of clay and shape them into his glasses.

Personalize each of the faces with their identifying characteristics like- Roosevelt’s glasses, Lincoln’s beard, Jefferson’s curls, Washington’s strong profile.

Add a bit of water to your finger tip to smooth the air-dry clay and attach additional pieces together, like hair and beards.

Paint the bottom half of your wood sign white once its dry to create the backdrop of the mountain they are carved in to.

Hot glue each of the heads in place.

Allow it to dry for several days until the clay has dried. It will not completely harden.

If you would rather have hardening clay, you can use an oven baked type and bake prior to gluing onto the wood plaque.

Do All The Rivers Run Into The Sea | Free Famous Rivers Of The World Printable

January 28, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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Do all the rivers run into the sea is a question most kids or even adults wonder at one time or another. Also, look at my page Hands-On Simple And Best Homeschool Geography Ideas & Tips for more ideas.

A river is a natural stream of flowing water that usually moves downhill from higher land to lower land but not always.

First, the easy answer to do all the rivers run into the sea. No, they do not. Many rivers do but some rivers end long before they ever reach an ocean.

Do All The Rivers Run Into The Sea | Free Famous Rivers Of The World Printable

And most rivers do end in the ocean. For example, the Nile River empties into the Mediterranean Sea. The Amazon River flows into the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mississippi River empties into the Gulf of Mexico.

However, some rivers empty into a lake. For instance, the Jordan River flows into the Dead Sea which is not a sea at all but a lake.

And in very dry places, rivers can disappear into the ground or evaporate completely.

BOOKS ABOUT RIVERS FOR KIDS

Next, look at this list of books about rivers.

I prefer living books when I can find them.

6 Fun Books About Rivers

Add some oft hese living books about rivers to your home library.

Minn of the Mississippi

The history of the Mississippi River Valley is told in text and pictures through the adventures of Minn, a snapping turtle, as she travels downstream.

Journey to the River Sea

Accompanied by Miss Minton, a fierce-looking, no-nonsense governess, Maia, a young orphan, sets off for the wilderness of the Amazon, expecting curtains of orchids, brightly colored macaws, and a loving family. But what she finds is an evil-tempered aunt and uncle and their spoiled daughters. It is only when she is swept up in a mystery involving a young Indian boy, a homesick child actor, and a missing inheritance that Maia lands in the middle of the Amazon adventure she's dreamed of. Readers of every generation will treasure Ibbotson's lush historical adventure that harkens back to the beloved classics of Frances Hodgson Burnett and Louisa May Alcott.

The Yangtze. Paul Harrison with Jen Green

In these books, each river is divided into five sections and each section begins with a map showing the area that will be covered. Map references are highlighted within the text to show the reader where they are on their journey.

One Well: The Story of Water on Earth (CitizenKid, 4)

Seen from space, our planet looks blue. This is because almost 70 percent of Earth’s surface is covered with water. Earth is the only planet with liquid water --- and therefore the only planet that can support life.

All water is connected. Every raindrop, lake, underground river and glacier is part of a single global well.

Water has the power to change everything --- a single splash can sprout a seed, quench a thirst, provide a habitat, generate energy and sustain life. How we treat the water in the well will affect every species on the planet, now and for years to come. One Well shows how every one of us has the power to conserve and protect our global well.

River Wild: An Activity Guide to North American Rivers

Kids will delight in learning about the formation of rivers, the water cycle, and the variety of habitats that exist along the length of a river in this introduction to the precious natural resource of rivers. All major rivers that run through the United States, Canada, and Mexico are discussed in regional chapters, including the Chattahoochee, Colorado, Columbia, Hudson, Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, Rio Grande, and St. Lawrence Rivers as well as many others. Kids will discover how rivers have shaped our history and learn of the issues that are currently facing these important waterways

Rivers.

Next, look at activities about rivers.

DO ALL THE RIVERS RUN INTO THE SEA ACTIVITIES

Then, look at the printable to do some research on each of these rivers below.

Nile River
Amazon River
Yangtze River
Mississippi River
Huang He River
Ganges River
Danube River
Congo River
Mekong River
Parana River

This is a subscriber freebie.

HOW TO GET THE FREE FAMOUS RIVERS OF THE WORLD PRINTABLE

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

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How To Make A DIY LEGO Turkish Design Craft

January 19, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

In this DIY LEGO Turkish design craft. We’ll explore İznik patterns while recreating their style using LEGO bricks for a hands-on, creative learning experience. Also, look at my page From Simple to Spectacular: Easy LEGO Ideas for Everyone.

Too, look at my post Mini Unit Study: Geography Quest about The Country of Turkey.

Art and architecture tell the story of a culture, and few artistic traditions are as recognizable or as beautiful as Turkish İznik tile designs.

How To Make A DIY LEGO Turkish Design Craft

With their bold blues, rich reds, flowing floral motifs, and repeating geometric patterns, İznik tiles are a wonderful way to introduce students to Islamic art, Ottoman history, and design principles.

This DIY LEGO Turkish Design Craft brings history and art to life in a way that feels approachable and fun. By studying İznik designs and recreating them with LEGO, students gain a deeper appreciation for Turkish culture while developing critical thinking and creativity.

It’s a perfect reminder that learning doesn’t have to stay on the page; it can be built, brick by brick, to blend history, art, math, and fine motor skills into one engaging activity.

İznik tiles originated in the town of İznik (ancient Nicaea) in modern-day Turkey during the Ottoman Empire, especially between the 15th and 17th centuries. These ceramic tiles were used to decorate mosques, palaces, and public buildings, including famous structures like the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.

MORE EASY LEGO IDEAS

BOOKS ABOUT TURKEY FOR KIDS

Next, look at some of these books about Turkey.

11 Books About the Country of Turkey

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

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

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

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

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

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

Turkey (Countries)

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

Song of the Old City

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

Turkey (Our Global Village Series)

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

The Hungry Coat: A Tale from Turkey

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

DK Eyewitness Istanbul (Travel Guide)

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

Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Istanbul.

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

• Illustrated cutaway 3-D drawings of important sights.

I See the Sun in Turkey (7)

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

Nearly Nonsense: Hoja Tales from Turkey

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

On Two Feet and Wings

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

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

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

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

These patterns were not random. Artists carefully planned balance, symmetry, and repetition, which makes İznik art a perfect fit for LEGO-based design.

They included floral motifs, geometric symmetry and repetition and flowing vine patterns.

10 IZNIK TILE FACTS FOR STUDENTS

İznik tiles were produced mainly between 1480 and 1700 at the height of the Ottoman Empire.
The town of İznik was once called Nicaea, the site of early Christian councils, before it became a major center of Islamic art.
İznik ceramics were made with a quartz-based paste, which gave the tiles a bright white background that made colors stand out.
The famous İznik red (often called Armenian bole) was raised slightly above the surface, giving tiles a textured feel.
Blue was the earliest and most common color, symbolizing heaven, spirituality, and protection in Islamic art.
Tulips appear often because they were associated with royalty, perfection, and God’s creation in Ottoman culture.
Many İznik patterns follow strict rules of symmetry and balance, demonstrating their belief that order in art mirrors order in creation.
Human and animal figures were generally avoided, and artists developed incredibly detailed abstract and floral designs.
Tiles were often created in sets, meant to be viewed together rather than as individual pieces.
Large buildings like mosques used thousands of tiles, carefully planned so patterns would align across walls and domes.

Additionally, look at these other activities.

MORE TURKISH CRAFT PROJECTS AND RESOURCES

I always like to include a good book for reference on any study, Turkey: The Complete History for Kids: Real Stories That Inspire Courage, Kindness, and Curiosity.

Even little hands can join in on Ebru: Turkish Paper Marbling.

Paper piecing/collage is a great way to create The Blue Mosque Paper Craft.

Maybe it’s not a craft project, but I still suggest you check out this Cool Turkey Country Facts For Kids | How to Make a Hummus Recipe.

Spend A Day in an Old Turkish Village through this short YouTube video and learn more about life back then.

Finally, look at how to make a diy LEGO turkey design.

HOW TO MAKE A DIY LEGO TURKISH DESIGN

Begin by looking at real İznik tile images; we printed a couple out for reference. Have your child observe things like:

Repeating shapes
Color placement
Symmetry
Borders versus center designs
A central motif (flower or star)
Mirrored shapes
A repeating border

You will need:

A flat LEGO baseplate
LEGO bricks in the colors of your choice, flat pieces work best for this.`

You can choose to mimic the colors of authentic İznik tiles with a white background, blue outlines, and red or green accent pieces or just take inspiration and go with your own color scheme.

We used a white baseplate and looked for a lot of different flat LEGO pieces, as well as little leaves to add to the floral motif we decided on.

Start from the center and work outward. Before placing on the baseplate, we tried out some different center designs on the table. It’s a little easier to adjust than popping them off the baseplate over and over.

Keep in mind some of the hallmarks of Iznik are:

Symmetry (left mirrors right, top mirrors bottom)
Repeating shapes
Clean lines and clear borders

Continue to build outward from the centerpiece of your design, repeating patterns around it.

When you are happy with your design, transfer it to the baseplate starting with the center.

Add and adjust your pieces as you pop them into place to fill in your design.

Free Printable Map Of Vietnam & How To Make A Vietnamese Lantern

December 25, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I am excited to share my free printable map of Vietnam with you as well as a tutorial for the beautiful traditional Vietnamese lantern. Also, look at my post Free Lapbook Asia For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning.

Vietnam is a country full of vibrant culture, dramatic landscapes, and a long, complex history. It is located in Southeast Asia and stretches along the eastern edge of the Indochinese Peninsula.

On your printable map, you will notice its distinctive S-shape, with mountains, deltas, and coastline all packed into one narrow country.

Free Printable Map Of Vietnam & How To Make A Vietnamese Lantern

You can download it immediately by adding your email below.

Vietnam boasts a rich cultural heritage, shaped by family values, religious traditions, and artistic expressions.

Together, we will explore the geography, cultures, language, and history of Vietnam before we discover more projects to create a full unit study and end with our lantern tutorial.

BOOKS ABOUT VIETNAM FOR KIDS

Next, look at these books about or set in Vietnam.

We prefer living books when learning so when I can find them, I list them

10 Books About or Set in Vietnam

Add these books to your home library for fun reading or to use on as a unit study spine.

Finding Papa

Finding Papa has been named the 2024 Asian/Pacific American Award Picture Honor Book by the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association!

This poignant and lyrical debut picture book based on the author’s own experience and illustrated by Caldecott Honoree Thi Bui follows young Mai and her mother’s perilous journey from Vietnam to America to find Papa—who left ahead of them to start a better life for their family.

No one can make Mai laugh like her Papa! She loves playing their favorite game—the crocodile chomp chomp! But then Papa leaves Vietnam in search of a new home for their family in America and Mai misses him very much.

Until one day Mama and Mai pack a small bag and say goodbye to the only home Mai has ever known. And so begins Mai and Mama’s long, perilous journey by foot and by boat, through dangers and darkness, to find Papa.

America and Vietnam: The Elephant and the Tiger

Fought in a small Asian country unfamiliar to most Americans at the time, the Vietnam War became a cause that divided the nation and defined a counter-culture. The first televised war, newscasters became a force creating the greatest anti-war movement in history, while American boys suffered and died in jungles and rice paddies against guerilla soldiers they rarely saw face to face. As Marrin does so well, he brings an objective look at the complex issues that brought America into this war, that compelled her to stay there, and that prevented her from pursuing a definitive conclusion. Beginning with a history of Vietnam from ancient times, readers will understand the cultural, religious, and geo-political forces that made Vietnam a desirable territory conquered again and again by rival nations. They will learn how America's initial efforts to support anti-communist forces led to greater and greater involvement eventually spanning the administrations of Eisenhower, Kennedy, LBJ, and Nixon.

Inside Out and Back Again: A Newbery Honor Award Winner

Inspired by the author's childhood experience as a refugee—fleeing Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon and immigrating to Alabama—this coming-of-age debut novel told in verse has been celebrated for its touching child's-eye view of family and immigration.

Hà has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends close by. But now the Vietnam War has reached her home. Hà and her family are forced to flee as Saigon falls, and they board a ship headed toward hope—toward America.

Family Style: Memories of an American from Vietnam

A moving young adult graphic memoir about a Vietnamese immigrant boy's search for belonging in America, perfect for fans of American Born Chinese and The Best We Could Do!Thien's first memory isn't a sight or a sound. It's the sweetness of watermelon and the saltiness of fish. It's the taste of the foods he ate while adrift at sea as his family fled Vietnam.After the Pham family arrives at a refugee camp in Thailand, they struggle to survive. Things don't get much easier once they resettle in California. And through each chapter of their lives, food takes on a new meaning. Strawberries come to signify struggle as Thien's mom and dad look for work. Potato chips are an indulgence that bring Thien so much joy that they become a necessity.

Wishes

Wishes tells the powerful, honest story about one Vietnamese family's search for a new home on the other side of the world, and the long-lasting and powerful impact that makes on one of the youngest members of the family. Inspired by actual events in the author's life, this is a narrative that is both timely and timeless. Told through the eyes of a young girl, the story chronicles a family's difficult and powerful journey to pack up what they can carry and to leave their world behind, traveling to a new and unknown place in a crowded boat.

Different Pond

As a young boy, Bao Phi awoke early, hours before his father's long workday began, to fish on the shores of a small pond in Minneapolis. Unlike many other anglers, Bao and his father fished for food, not recreation. A successful catch meant a fed family. Between hope-filled casts, Bao's father told him about a different pond in their homeland of Vietnam.

The Lotus Seed

When she is forced to leave Vietnam, a young girl brings a lotus seed with her to America in remembrance of her homeland.

In a Village by the Sea

Written in a spare, lyrical style using fresh, evocative imagery, Village by the Sea tells the story of longing for the comforts of home. A perfect book for teaching about diverse cultures and lifestyles through rich pictures and words, moving from the wide world to the snugness of home and back out again.

Library Book: Escape from Saigon: How a Vietnam War Orphan Became an American Boy

Over a million South Vietnamese children were orphaned by the Vietnam War. This affecting true account tells the story of Long, who, like more than 40,000 other orphans, is Amerasian -- a mixed-race child --with little future in Vietnam. Escape from Saigon allows readers to experience Long's struggle to survive in war-torn Vietnam, his dramatic escape to America as part of "Operation Babylift" during the last chaotic days before the fall of Saigon, and his life in the United States as "Matt," part of a loving Ohio family. Finally, as a young doctor, he journeys back to Vietnam, ready to reconcile his Vietnamese past with his American present. As the thirtieth anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War approaches, this compelling account provides a fascinating introduction to the war and the plight of children caught in the middle of it.

The Cricket War

A gripping story of a boy’s escape from Communist Vietnam by boat, based on the author’s own experience.

It’s 1980, and 12-year-old Tho Pham lives with his family in South Vietnam. He spends his afternoons playing soccer and cricket fighting with his friends, but life is slowly changing under the Communists. His parents are worried, and Tho knows the Communist army will soon knock on their door to make his brother, and then him, join them. Still, it shocks him when his father says that arrangements have been made for him to leave Vietnam by boat, immediately. Tho tries to be brave as he sets out on a harrowing journey toward the unknown.

Then, look at some geography facts about Vietnam.

THE GEOGRAPHY OF VIETNAM

Coastline- Vietnam boasts more than 2,000 miles of coastline along the South China Sea, which has shaped its fishing traditions, trade routes, and coastal cuisine.

The Red River Delta (North): A fertile region where Vietnamese civilization first developed. Hanoi, the capital, is located here.

The Mekong Delta (South): Known as Vietnam’s “rice bowl,” this region is full of rivers, floating markets, and lush farmland.

Mountain Ranges: The Annamite Range runs along the western border, home to ethnic minority groups, rainforest ecosystems, and rare wildlife.

Hanoi: The historic capital famous for its old quarter and lakes.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): A bustling southern city influenced by French colonial architecture and modern trade.

Also, look at a timeline of the history of Vietnam.

TIMELINE OF VIETNAM HISTORY

Vietnam’s history is shaped by resilience, foreign influence, and a strong sense of national identity.

Early Vietnamese culture began in the Red River Delta over 4,000 years ago.
The legendary Hùng Kings are traditionally considered the founders of the nation.
Vietnam spent over 1,000 years under Chinese rule, absorbing Confucianism, language influences, and political systems while still preserving its own identity.
Vietnamese dynasties such as the Lý, Trần, and Lê strengthened the government, expanded territory, and promoted art, literature, and scholarship.
France colonized Vietnam in the mid-1800s, combining it with Laos and Cambodia to form French Indochina.
The Vietnam War (1955–1975)- After World War II, Vietnam declared independence, but political tensions split the country into North Vietnam (communist) and South Vietnam (anti-communist). The U.S. became involved in support of the South. The long and devastating Vietnam War ended in 1975 when North Vietnam unified the country.

Today, Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest-growing nations. It blends traditional culture with rapid economic development, global trade, and a booming tourism industry.

Finally, look at how to get the free printable map of Vietnam.

VIETNAMESE CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

Family loyalty and respect for elders are central to their beliefs.
Households often include multiple generations.
Ancestor worship is still practiced; families honor loved ones through special altars and holidays.

LANGUAGE

Vietnamese is the national language and uses the Latin alphabet with tone marks; each syllable can change meaning depending on tone.

FOOD CULTURE

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its balance of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors. Some of the most popular dishes are:

Cơm tam (broken rice)
Phở (noodle soup)
Bánh mì (baguette sandwich)
Spring rolls

VIETNAM CRAFTS AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES

Giant Lotus Paper Craft
Compare Vietnamese lanterns with those of Chinese or Japanese traditions.
Vietnamese Silk Painting Using Acrylic Paint
Make simple Vietnamese rice paper rolls or try a Vietnamese dessert.
Give your child the writing prompt “Describe what it would be like to walk through Hội An during the Lantern Festival.”
Vietnamese DIY Tết Decorations
Map Challenge: Have students trace Vietnam’s borders and label neighboring countries (China, Laos, Cambodia).
Create a timeline from the ancient Hùng Kings to modern Vietnam.

HOW TO MAKE A VIETNAMESE LANTERN

Our lantern craft ties beautifully to Vietnamese tradition. Lanterns are especially famous in Hội An, a city filled with glowing lanterns at night.

Traditionally used materials: bamboo frames, silk fabric, and bright colors. Lanterns symbolize luck, prosperity, and happiness.

Festivals throughout Vietnam, including the Mid-Autumn Festival, feature vibrant lantern parades.

You will need:

Wooden hoops
Silk or satin fabric
Thin wood strips
Hot glue
Tassel or string to make your own.
Battery-operated candle-optional

I found these wooden strips, but they were longer than I wanted, so I used my multi-angle miter cutter to trim them down to 12.”

Begin by hot-gluing 4 wooden strips to a wooden hoop, evenly spaced.

Hold them in place by hand or with clothespins until the glue is cooled and hardened completely.

Hot glue the top of the strips in place into the second wooden hoop.

Bend another strip across the top to create a handle.

Once the glue has cooled, wrap your silk around the frame and pull tightly, gluing to one wooden strip at a time.

Fold the excess over the edges of the top and bottom, and trim the excess after gluing them down.

Add a fun little tassel or multiple tassels all the way around to add a little more decoration.

HOW TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE MAP OF VIETNAM

You can grab this below.

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.

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geography

IDEAS FOR GEOGRAPHY EXPLORATION INSPIRATION

GENERAL POSTS, DOWNLOADS, PRINTABLES AND UNIT STUDIES

HANDS-ON IDEAS AND ACTIVITIES ABOUT EXPLORERS

B

VASCO NUNEZ DE BALBOA EXPLORER

DANIEL BOONE NORTH AMERICAN EXPLORER

C

SAMUEL DE CHAMPLAIN

CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS

FRANCISCO VASQUEZ DE CORONADO

HERNANDO CORTES

D

BARTOLOMEU DIAS

SIR FRANCIS DRAKE

G

VASCO DA GAMA

H

HENRY HUDSON

L

JUAN PONCE DE LEON

M

P

FRANCISCO PIZARRO

MARCO POLO

R

SIR WALTER RALEIGH

S

HERNANDO DE SOTO

V

AMERIGO VESPUCCI

Videos

MORE GEOGRAPHY RESOURCES

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT FAMOUS USA LANDMARKS

FAMOUS LANDMARKS OF USA

STATUE OF LIBERTY (NEW YORK, NY)

LIBERTY BELL (PHILADELPHIA, PA)

THE WHITE HOUSE (WASHINGTON, D.C.)

GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE (SAN FRANCISCO, CA)

GRAND CANYON (ARIZONA)

GATEWAY ARCH (ST. LOUIS, MO)

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING (NEW YORK, NY)

MOUNT RUSHMORE (SOUTH DAKOTA)

ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY IDEAS FOR LANDMARKS OF USA

MOUNT RUSHMORE IN AIR-DRY CLAY ART PROJECT

BOOKS ABOUT RIVERS FOR KIDS

DO ALL THE RIVERS RUN INTO THE SEA ACTIVITIES

HOW TO GET THE FREE FAMOUS RIVERS OF THE WORLD PRINTABLE

MORE EASY LEGO IDEAS

BOOKS ABOUT TURKEY FOR KIDS

10 IZNIK TILE FACTS FOR STUDENTS

MORE TURKISH CRAFT PROJECTS AND RESOURCES

HOW TO MAKE A DIY LEGO TURKISH DESIGN

BOOKS ABOUT VIETNAM FOR KIDS

THE GEOGRAPHY OF VIETNAM

TIMELINE OF VIETNAM HISTORY

VIETNAMESE CUSTOMS AND TRADITIONS

LANGUAGE

FOOD CULTURE

VIETNAM CRAFTS AND LEARNING ACTIVITIES

HOW TO MAKE A VIETNAMESE LANTERN

HOW TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE MAP OF VIETNAM

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