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hands on history

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

February 9, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Make your own Ming Dynasty plate for a fun and educational ancient China activity. Also, look at my post Free Ancient China Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History.

This hands-on history craft leaves a lasting impression and makes for a wonderful keepsake of your study.

The blue and white porcelain is from the Yuan Dynasty.

It is attributed to the Ming Dynasty because it was during the Ming Dynasty period that it started coming to Europe and gained popularity.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

Popular designs and motifs were Chinese characters, dragons, pagodas, fish, birds, botanical, and waves.

Ming China was not the first or the highest in quality and design.

However, it holds as one of the most significant milestones in ceramic history because it was during this dynasty that China dramatically improved its ceramic technology.

The blue and white coloration is the most popular and identifiable.

Ming Dynasty was a period of imperial China which existed from 1368 to 1644. It was a hereditary monarchy that was dominated by a single family.

Many achievements were made during the Ming Dynasty.

For example, doubling its population, refurbishing the Great Wall to its greatest glory and large naval expeditions.

Also, there was robust maritime trade, the production of beautiful porcelains, paintings, and textiles.

In the last century the dynasty was plagued with crop failures, monetary instability, and corruption in the courts.

That allowed it to be overthrown by a combined effort of  Wu Sangui and the Manchu Prince Dorgon.

This is just one of the fascinating ancient dynasties that you can learn more about.

Research rulers and the contributions each made to their time.

Books About China For Kids

Next, along with this hands-on ancient China activity, look at some of these living books.

I like to add living books to our day then reference books too.

12 Books & Resources For Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read to About Ancient China

Add some of these books to your home library about Ancient China. Also, use them for a homeschool unit study.

Zheng He, The Great Chinese Explorer: A Bilingual Story of Adventure and Discovery

In the West, legendary explorers like Christopher Columbus, Ernest Shackleton and Sir Edmund Hillary are a recognized part of our history. But in China, that legend belongs to the great explorer Zheng He (1371–1433), who lived during China's renowned Ming Dynasty. Zheng He, the Great Chinese Explorer is a bilingual (English and Chinese) tale of his adventures.

When he was a child, Zheng He dreamed of foreign lands, his imagination was inspired by the travels of his father and grandfather and the wonderful items they brought back from trading trips to the West. A simple but exotic porcelain vase in cobalt, a color not found in China at the time, drove Zheng He to discover the origins of this unique color—and become one of the most famous explorers in China's history.

Chee-Lin: A Giraffe's Journey

Eighty years before Columbus, China sent ships to explore the world.The Chinese discovered many marvelous things, but one discovery stood out above the others: the chee-lin.This chee-lin was just a giraffe, but to the Chinese it was an omen of good fortune so rare that it had appeared only once before—at the birth of Confucius.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon

A Time Magazine 100 Best Fantasy Books of All Time selection!​A Reader’s Digest Best Children’s Book of All Time​!This stunning fantasy inspired by Chinese folklore is a companion novel to Starry River of the Sky and the New York Times bestselling and National Book Award finalist When the Sea Turned to SilverIn the valley of Fruitless mountain, a young girl named Minli lives in a ramshackle hut with her parents. In the evenings, her father regales her with old folktales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man on the Moon, who knows the answers to all of life's questions. Inspired by these stories, Minli sets off on an extraordinary journey to find the Old Man on the Moon to ask him how she can change her family's fortune. She encounters an assorted cast of characters and magical creatures along the way, including a dragon who accompanies her on her quest for the ultimate answer.Grace Lin, author of the beloved Year of the Dog and Year of the Rat returns with a wondrous story of adventure, faith, and friendship. A fantasy crossed with Chinese folklore, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon is a timeless story reminiscent of The Wizard of Oz and Kelly Barnhill's The Girl Who Drank the Moon. Her beautiful illustrations, printed in full-color, accompany the text throughout. Once again, she has created a charming, engaging book for young readers.

Science and Scientists (True Stories From Ancient China)

Ancient China has a long history of scientific excellence. Learn more about some of China’s greatest scientific wonders and the scientists who studied them. Features stories about astronomy, seismology, mathematics, calendar-making, and geography.

The Warlord's Beads (Warlord's Series)

Clever Chuan devises a simple way for his father to quickly and accurately count all the warlord's treasure.

The Five Chinese Brothers (Paperstar)

The classic picture book about five clever brothers, each with a different extraordinary ability, has been in print for almost 80 years."An original nonsense tale told with...spirit and gusto." -- The Horn Book

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." (School Library Journal)

The Story about Ping

No one can deny the appeal of the book's hero, Ping, the spirited little duck who lives on a boat on the Yangtze River. Ping's misadventures one night while exploring the world around his home form the basis of this timeless classic, which is brought to life by Kurt Wiese's warm and poignant illustrations.

In the Forbidden City (We All Live in the Forbidden City)

Serving as the seat of imperial power for six centuries, the Forbidden City is one of China's most famous and enigmatic landmarks. Accompanied by a mischievous cat, readers will tour this colossal architectural structure, discovering the secrets hidden inside the palace walls. They will encounter the people who have walked through its halls and gardens, including emperors, empresses, and rebel leaders, and hear exciting tales about the power struggles and intrigues of everyday life.This large format book conveys the grandeur of the Forbidden City through highly detailed line drawings of its buildings, gardens, and courtyards with numerous fold-out spreads. Each page is populated by a large variety of characters and peppered with entertaining anecdotes. Every book includes a plastic magnifying glass for looking at the drawings more closely."Readers receive a lavish tour of the Forbidden City, once home to Chinese emperors and now a museum, courtesy of Chiu and the Design and Cultural Studies Workshop, which he founded. Delicate line drawings highlight the architectural intricacies of the nearly 178-acre complex (several foldout spreads emphasize its size) while Chiu examines the Ming and Qing dynasties in thorough detail, along with major events in the palace's history. (In one foldout scene, 24 emperors offer pithy, even brusque notes on their reigns — "I was entirely unaccomplished," says Emperor Longqing.) A magnifying glass is wisely included to help readers appreciate the wealth of visual detail." — Publishers Weekly

The Emperor Who Built The Great Wall

DID YOU KNOW that China was named after its first emperor – the brilliant, all-powerful emperor who built The Great Wall? In this book, discover why he started building the Wall, how he made China the biggest country on earth, and what treasures he hid in his secret tomb. Find out how he became one of the most important people in the history of China. Read all about the first emperor’s fascinating life in The Emperor Who Built The Great Wall.The simple language and beautiful illustrations make this book a wonderful reader or bedtime story. It is suitable for all ages, but children aged six to twelve years will especially enjoy reading this book.~ About the ONCE UPON A TIME IN CHINA… Series ~China has a long history, but its many stories are often too complex for children. In this series, Jillian Lin retells China’s best historical tales so they are easy and fun to read. Children will embark on a journey through time where they will get a glimpse inside the colorful lives of famous Chinese figures. Beautiful illustrations, gripping stories, and fascinating facts make these books wonderful readers or bedtime stories for ages six and above. Other titles in this series include:The King Without A Throne (Confucius)The Mountain Man Of Music (Zhu Zaiyu)The Miracle Doctor (Hua Tuo)The Girl Who Became Emperor (Wu Zetian)The Dreamer Of Stars (Zhang Heng)The Greatest Explorer In The World (Zheng He)The Pirate King (Koxinga/Zheng Chenggong)

Where Is the Great Wall?

More than two thousand years ago, with his land under constant attack from nomads, the First Emperor of China came up with a simple solution: build a wall to keep out enemies. It was a wall that kept growing and growing. But its construction came at a huge cost: it is believed that more than a million Chinese died building it, earning the wall its nickname--the longest cemetery on earth. Through the story of the wall, Patricia Brennan Demuth is able to tell the story of China itself, the rise and fall of dynasties, the greatness of its culture, and its present-day status as a Communist world power.

DK Eyewitness Books: Ancient China: Discover the History of Imperial China―from the Great Wall to the Days of the La

A spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people.  Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final years in the early 20th century. See the stunning bronze work of the ancient Chinese and the beautiful techniques used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the Terracotta Army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, and much, much more. 

Activities Resources For Ancient China Unit Study

  • Learn the Quick and Easy Ancient Chinese Paper making for Kids and practice writing characters to spell out names or spelling words.
  • Before you make your plate, watch Ming Dynasty Pottery For Kids for a quick and easy art lesson.
  • Make Bamboo Scrolls like they would have started as far back as the third or fourth century B.C.E.

Find out about Terra Cotta Warriors, these were made in the Qin Dynasty (221–206 BCE), and were created to protect the kingdom of Emperor Qin Shi Huang.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

Finally, look how to make this Ming Dynasty plate.

How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

You can use a regular sharpie to make your plate.

However, if you use the sharpie paint markers like I linked below you will get a much richer and longer lasting color.

 Also, you can also choose to make a bowl, cup, or vase using the same method as below.

You will need:

  • White plate (Dollar Tree)
  • Oil based Sharpie markers
  • Dry erase marker
  • Rubbing alcohol/cloth
  • Oven

First, google various pieces of Ming China until you decide on some pattern ideas you like for inspiration.

Or your child can create their own modern version of the popular blue and white porcelain that has been reproduced many times over the years.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

Wipe down the plate with rubbing alcohol and a clean cloth to remove any oils and dirt from the plate and then let it dry completely.

Draw your design, if you make a mistake that you can’t or don’t want to work into your design you can color over it completely with a dry erase marker and it will completely wipe away.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

You can start along the rim like this repeating simple patterns if you like.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

Now fill in the center of your plate with a scene.

Ming porcelain was usually very detailed and full of some sort of designs, so I encouraged as much drawing as possible. We went with a couple of pagodas to make it obvious.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

When you are satisfied with your design, place it on a baking sheet in an oven that has been preheated to 350 and bake for 30 minutes before turning it off.

Allow it to sit until completely cooled and then remove it.

These plates are not food safe, but the designs are now permanent and can be used in a display.

Kids Ancient China Activity | How To Make a Simple Ming Dynasty Craft

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

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

February 4, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I can’t wait to show you how to make a roman costume with kids for just about $3.00 and in about 5 minutes. Also, you love my ideas here at Ancient Rome Lapbook for Kids and Fun Hands-on Ideas.

If you need a quick and cheap costume for a presentation at home or co-op, maybe even just for fun this is the easiest and inexpensive tutorial for you to try.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

I took a quick trip to Dollar Tree and gathered up just 3 items, wanting to keep this as simple and low cost as possible.

Roman garb was simple, made of mostly draped fabrics.

It had very little embellishment beyond the jewelry of wealthier women that included earrings, necklaces, tiaras, and bracelets.

Creating a Roman costume is a fun way to add a hands-on element to your Roman unit study.

There is much to learn about the fashion of the times. For example, this costume can be used as a living history lesson.

Also, use it as you peek back into days of gladiators, military conquests, and classical architecture.

While this DIY might not hold up to continuous wear, unless you use a sheet along with the instructions, it is the perfect easy craft to demonstrate fashions of the day.

What did a Roman Wear on an Average Day

Tunica- Is the most basic roman garment, the tunica was just a single rectangle of woven fabric that was later made of linen.

They consisted of a short-sleeved or sleeveless, knee-length tunics for males, and a longer, sometimes sleeved tunica for females.

It was a simple draped fabric worn with a belt for definition. Upper classes wore white, while lower classes wore natural or brown colored.

Toga– Was a piece of draped cloth in a semi-circle shape with no fastener and the bulk of the fabric was held draped over the arm.

Foreigners, slaves, and exiled Romans were forbidden from wearing them.

Stola- The stola was a long, pleated, sleeveless robe made of linen wool and silk for wealthy women.

It was worn by Roman wives as a symbol of their woman’s marital status.

Undergarments-Underneath these draped garments both sexes wore a form of underwear that consisted of a loincloth, like briefs.

Women would also wear a breast band beneath. Between undergarments and the rougher outer draped garment, they would wear soft tunics.

Shoes- Most commonly on their feet they wore sandals.

A light shoe of leather or woven papyrus leaves held on by a simple strap across the top.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Laurel Wreath- These were worn around the head as a sign of victory in pursuits of sports, music, and poetry.

Also, they signified victory in battle but were not worn typically in the day to day.

Books About Ancient Rome for Kids

Next, look at some of these books about Ancient Rome to add to your library.

I lean toward living books when I can find them. Then, I add in reference books for more information to the topic.

20 Ancient Rome Resources. Books, Pop Up, Coloring & Hands-on Figurines

Whether you're doing a unit study or want to dig deeper about Ancient Rome, you'll love adding a resource or two.

Famous Men of Rome

The Romans were history's great men of action, making the study of Rome ideal for beginners of all ages, but especially for younger students, who are fascinated by the abundant action and drama of Roman history. In addition, an understanding of modern political history is impossible without a thorough understanding of Rome. There are thirty stories covering the history of Rome from its founding under Romulus to the last emperor in the West. Your children will see the rise and fall of a great civilization through the lives of Horatius, Camillus, Caesar, Cicero, Marcus Aurelius, and many other larger-than-life figures. Rome is the model civilization, the mastery of which provides a foundation for all other history study.

Ancient Rome for Kids through the Lives of its Heroes, Emperors, and Philosophers (History for Kids - Story Format)

When I first discovered that my 8-year-old kid believed that the adventures of Odysseus were the actual history of ancient Greece, I panicked and bought him a stack of children's history books. I sat by his side as he started reading about the class structure of Athens and the economic underpinnings of the Greek polis. He yawned. He asked for candy... and then for the Disney Channel...Kids like stories. And when it comes to history, they learn from stories, not from dense paragraphs about the phases of the Bronze age, the location of trade routes, or the injustices of the social order here and there.This book follows the old-fashioned, story-based, traditional route of teaching history - through tales of heroes and kings, with no tribute paid to modern economic and social perspectives. Culture is memes. And that means historical figures, and anecdotes about them. To write this book, I went back to Tacitus, Livy, Suetonius, Cassius Dio, Valerius Maximus, Josephus, Eusebius, Theodoret, and other ancient sources of biographical anecdotes, and extracted from them the stories that will be most memorable to a modern kid

Theras and His Town

Young Theras, born an Athenian, is taken to Sparta by a relative when his father is lost at war. He is forced to live like a Spartan, a brutal life with no pity for those who are not physically perfect and totally obedient to Spartan control. After enduring rigorous training and repeated cruel incidents, he escapes with a Perioikoi boy and heads for his beloved Athens. Here is the story of a hard and dangerous journey with Snedeker's amazing historical accuracy. 

Tools of the Ancient Romans: A Kid's Guide to the History & Science of Life in Ancient Rome (Build It Yourself)

Tools of the Ancient Greeks: A Kid’s Guide to the History and Science of Life in Ancient Greece explores the scientific discoveries, athletic innovations, engineering marvels, and innovative ideas created more than two thousand years ago. Through biographical sidebars, interesting facts, fascinating anecdotes, and fifteen hands-on activities, readers will learn how Greek innovations and ideas have shaped world history and our own world view.

Detectives in Togas

In these two delightful history-mysteries, seven boys in Ancient Rome solve strange crimes . . . thanks to some help from their cranky teacher, a little bit of logic, and a lot of amusing misadventure.

The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome: A Handbook for Time Travelers (The Thrifty Guides)

The Thrifty Guide to Ancient Rome contains information vital to the sensible time traveler:   • Where can I find a decent hotel room in ancient Rome for under five sesterces a day? Is horse parking included?   • What do I do if I’m attacked by barbarians?   • What are my legal options if I’m fed to the lions at the Colosseum? All this is answered and more. There is handy advice on finding the best picnicking spots to watch Julius Caesar’s assassination at the Roman Forum in 44 BC, as well as helpful real estate tips to profit from the great Roman fire of AD 64. There are even useful recommendations on which famous historical figures to meet for lunch, and a few nifty pointers on how to avoid being poisoned, beheaded, or torn apart by an angry mob.

Time Traveler

Takes readers back in time to illustrate the exciting happenings of daily life

The Bronze Bow: A Newbery Award Winner

Daniel bar Jamin will stop at nothing to seek revenge for his father's death at the hands of the Roman Empire.After Daniel bar Jamin's father is crucified by the Roman Empire, Daniel wants nothing more than to rid his land of Israel of Roman control once and for all. Yet when David meets Jesus of Nazareth, a traveling carpenter with a gentle message of love and forgiveness, David starts to realize that the hate festering in his heart might be his true enemy after all.

Eyewitness Ancient Rome: Discover One of History's Greatest Civilizations

From Roman emperors and gods and goddesses to soldiers and gladiators, step into the exciting world of ancient Rome.Who were Rome's most famous emperors? What was everyday life like for a soldier in the Roman army? How did the citizens of ancient Rome live? Did gladiators really fight to the death in the mighty Colosseum? Find out the answers to all these questions, and many more, in Eyewitness: Ancient Rome.

SuperToob: Ancient Rome

Use these fun figurines for art study, for a sensory bin for younger kids or for art inspiration.

Life in Ancient Rome Coloring Book (Dover Ancient History Coloring Books)

At the peak of its power, the Roman Empire stretched thousands of miles in all directions: north to what today is England, westward to Spain, to Armenia in the east, and Egypt in the south. The growth, development, and cultural achievements of that magnificent civilization are brought to life by the artist John Green in this exciting and fact-filled coloring book.

The Romans Pop-Up: Pop-up Book to Make Yourself

There are 6 scenes to make in this book - combining the pleasure of seeing them pop up with interesting information and ideas. There are a number of mini popups as well. Close the book and they fold away. Open it and they popup again. These vivid, colorful three-dimensional scenes help to bring Ancient Civilisations to life in a way which no other kind of book can. Scenes: The City of Rome, The Forum, The Roman House, The Army of Rome, Entertainment, Ostia - the Port of Rome.

Attack at the Arena

Patrick and Beth learn that Mr. Whittaker’s fancy ring can be seen inside the Imagination Station but not outside of the machine. A mysterious letter leads the cousins to fifth-century Rome in search of a special cup that belongs to a monk. If found, the cup could keep the mysterious Albert out of prison.At the Roman Colosseum, Emperor Honorius is hosting a gladiator battle in celebration of a war victory. Beth attends the event as the emperor’s slave; Patrick attends as a monk’s apprentice but is taken prisoner and sent to fight in the arena. During their adventure, the cousins meet Telemachus (a true historical figure), a monk who believes that fighting is wrong. Telemachus is willing to risk everything―even his life―to stop the killing. When the cousins return with the cup, they find that a third letter has been sent with more information about Albert’s fate.

Growing Up In Ancient Rome

Describes daily life in ancient Rome, discussing family life, entertainment, schools, religion, and other aspects.

The Story of the Romans: A History of Ancient Rome for Young Readers - its Legends, Military and Culture as a Republic and Empire

Who Were the Romans? (Starting Point History)

This series consists of simple illustrated guides to answer children's questions about history and invite comparisons with life today. This particular title deals with the Romans.

In the Daily Life of the Ancient Romans (Gods & Goddesses Of...)

This exciting new series explores ancient life by examining the traditions and religious beliefs of each culture. Through photographs, illustrations, and cut-away, detailed diagrams, each book considers the way religious beliefs affected everything from food, drink, and entertainment to rituals surrounding birth and death

Science in Ancient Rome (Science of the Past)

Describes how the Romans put to use and expanded the scientific achievements of earlier civilizations.

Roman Empire: Rise & The Fall. Explore The History, Mythology, Legends, Epic Battles & Lives Of The Emperors, Legions, Heroes, Gladiators & More

The Roman Empire may have fallen thousands of years ago, but the lessons and the legacy left behind lives on to this day

From a tiny settlement on the banks of the Tiber River, Rome grew into a colossal, unstoppable force. At its peak, The Empire dominated the world from Europe, West Asia, North Africa, and many more territories.

Never again would the world see such an influential power.

In this epic narrative, History Brought Alive presents an intriguing dive into Roman History, Legends, Facts, Myths and much more. Covering thousands of years the study of Roman history is vast and complex. Much like the Ancient Romans themselves, in order to study them, we need to follow structure and have an open mind.

See Inside Ancient Rome

Visit the world of ancient Rome, from bustling streets and the busy port to steaming baths and gruesome games. This book reveals how the Romans really lived.

7 Ancient Roman Fashion and Architecture Ideas

  1.  This fun idea from The Journey Through Time #2 Back In Time Ancient Rome Fun Mosaic is a wonderful way to depict the profile of a Roman Soldier.
  2. Learn about Making Mortar And Concrete And The Roman Arch and create a piece of historical architecture.
  3. Try your hand at learning How to Make an Easy Roman Helmet & Shield & A Set of Printable Wings to go along with your unit.
  4. Make the Geronimo Stilton Adventures The Journey Through Time #2: Back in Time (Colosseum Craft) to depict a scaled down version of the large amphitheater. It was used for chariot races and gladiator combat.
  5. Turn a basic pair of flip flops  into these Easy DIY Gladiator Sandals with this YouTube tutorial.
  6. How to Make an Ancient Rome-Inspired DIY Clown Collar No Sew.
  7. Ancient Rome (Hands-on History): Paint a Jester
How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Finally, how to make a Roman costume with kids.

How to Make a Roman Costume

To make something more durable you can spend about $10 and use these same instructions with a white sheet and colored fabric for the belt and headpiece.

You will need:

  • White plastic tablecloth
  • Gold tablecloth
  • Wide plastic headband
  • Scissors
  • Craft glue
How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

First, cut a 4’-5’ length of the gold tablecloth that is 6” wide and fold it in half.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Next cut a bunch of simple leaf shapes out of the gold tablecloth.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Use glue to attach them all the way around, making them a little haphazard. Overlap the ends a bit and cover it well.

Allow to dry completely by hanging it over something so that the leaves don’t become creased up.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Unfold the white tablecloth and fold the length in half. Cut 1 ½” to 2’ feet off one side depending on the size of your child’s shoulders.

Cut a V shape down the center several inches down and across roughly 8” to make a neck hole.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Drape over your child’s head and trim as needed across the bottom to get the length you want. Cinch the belt and let the ends hang down.

Finish it off by placing the headband on the back of the head with the points toward the forehead to create the golden laurel crown.

You can add a colored drape over the shoulder if you like to add some color like a regal red or purple.

How to Make a Roman Costume With Kids

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: Ancient Rome, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, historycostumes, homeschoolhistory, kids costumes, world history

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

January 30, 2024 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

For this craft, we are going to learn how to make paper look old with a simple technique you can do at home for pennies. Also, look at my post Quick and Easy Ancient Chinese Paper making for Kids.

Aged paper can be used in a myriad of ways.

Also, include in your lesson what causes aging on paper and how scientists preserve historical documents.

Of course, I have a fun list of 20 different ways that you can use your paper once you age it.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

This craft is perfect just as a fun project on its own.

Also, use it when learning about pirates, historical documents like the Declaration of Independence or even as a science lesson on aging and deterioration.

You can make it with fresh sheets of cardstock or cut pages out of a book, sheet music, stationary, envelopes or other paper and use the same technique below.

How Important Documents Are Preserved

Let’s talk a little about what causes paper to break down and age over time naturally.

The rate that paper ages and breaks down depends on how it is stored. Other factors are the moisture it is exposed to, acids from the environment, temperatures, and the quality of the paper.

The oldest document we have in the United States is The Constitution.

It has been preserved and kept in the National Archives Building in Washington, DC..

In addition, the Declaration of Independence, and Bill of Rights are all in a special 50-ton steel and concrete vault.

Each morning the cases rise through the floor from the vault in which they are kept. They are put on special display and lowered each night.

The case is filled with helium, temperature and humidity controlled.

Additionally, it is protected from ultraviolet rays that could damage the documents.

To preserve historical documents historians encase them where the oxygen (which speeds up breakdown) has been removed, control the moisture, keep it out of harsh light, temperature, and they avoid handling it with bare hands if at all.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

Important documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are monitored.

They are monitored closely with sensors so the environment stays perfect.

20 Ways to Use Your Aged Paper

  1. Use it to make a pirate map.
  2. Print a paper about historical times or people on it.
  3. Roll it up and tie it with a ribbon to create a parchment scroll.
How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids
  1. Use it as a matte for old photos.
  2. Print sheet music on it.
  3. Paint a picture on it with acrylic paint.
  4. Apply the aging technique to book pages and create a bunting banner.
  5. Write an original poem on it.
  6. Practice your calligraphy.
  7. Practice handwriting or cursive by penning a letter to someone in the family.
How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids
  1. Use it as a drawer liner.
  2. Learn How to Make an Envelope with it.
  3. Cut it into strips and make a unique bookmark.
  4. Make an Ink pot & Quill Pen with Berry Ink to use along with it.
  5. Use it to make homemade gift tags.
  6. Create your own journals or notebooks for a history unit study.
  7. Make a get well, thank you, or just because card to mail out.
  8. Create a family newspaper using your aged sheets.
  9. Use them to create a “scrapbook” or timeline of historical events.
  10. Make 3D stars for a cool vintage decor piece.

Also, check out my Quick and Easy Ancient Chinese Paper making for Kids for another fun paper activity.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft

You will need:

  • Card stock
  • Instant coffee
  • old paint or makeup brush
  • Baking sheet
  • Pants hanger
How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

First you want to make a mixture of water and instant coffee.

You can always darken it, but it’s a little trickier to lighten it without dirtying up another bowl, so start light.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

Grab a paintbrush that has seen better days, the more rough and uneven the bristles are the better and you may not want to use it again.

Brush a little of the coffee mixture on your paper. Continue brushing all over the paper.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

Flip and brush the other side.

Add more instant coffee to the water to darken it and give a little extra attention to the edges and random spots around the page to create age marks.

 Don’t worry about making it even, the more uneven it is the more authentic an old it will look.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

To give it some aged spots, sprinkle a bit of the dry instant coffee around the paper and let it sit for a few minutes.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

Next, you can either hang your paper to dry on pants hangers with clips and hang it outside in the sun or move to a dry cookie sheet and place in a warm spot until thoroughly dry.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

Once your pages are dry lay them under a few heavy books to help flatten them out for a day or two.

Finally, to age your pages further you can also tear the edges or corners or even burn some of the edges to further age your paper and give it a unique look.

How To Make Paper Look Old Craft With Kids

2 CommentsFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: crafts, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, paper

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

January 29, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

We’re making simple American history silhouette puzzles to go along with any prominent US history figure that you need a great activity for. Also, look at my post 35 Simple But Powerful US History Homeschool Curriculum Resources K to 12 for more ideas.

Silhouettes were done in profile (side view) and became popular in the mid-18th century, but the term did not become commonly used until the early 19th century.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

It was initially achieved by outlining shadows and then filling them in and later painting or hand cutting.

We are going to learn not only how to make a silhouette but how to turn it into a puzzle for a hands-on activity.

This will help engage your child’s mind to learn and remember more about the person they are learning about.

This time I focused on Abraham Lincoln (even without the hat), George Washington and first Lady Dolley Madison.

These are a few famous Americans who have well-known faces, even in silhouette form so they make for great subjects.

We focused even more on the wonderful contributions of Dolley Madison, wife of President James Madison.

We learned some fascinating facts and I have also included a handful of great American History resources for you to use to make a full and fun unit study full of hands-on ideas on your favorite American History topic.

Books About Founding Mothers & Early American History

9 Books about the Founding Mothers

Learn about the founding mothers brings history to life.

Dolley Madison and the War of 1812: America's First Lady (Courageous Women in American History)

Amidst the nonstop turmoil of the War of 1812, the decisive First Lady takes action and inspires an anxious nation.Dolley Madison faces a bitterly divided Washington City when her husband, James Madison, becomes our fourth president. The prospect of war against Great Britain threatens to tear our fragile republic apart. The "Presidentess" hosts open parties in the new President's House to unite political foes and cultivate an American identity.When President Madison declares war with disastrous results, Dolley carries on, ignoring the threats against her. However, as British soldiers march toward Washington City, she becomes their target. Now America's Second War of Independence hinges on her. What must she do to save the United States while also saving herself?The true story of a woman with humble Quaker roots who rallies America during the War of 1812!

Founding Mothers: Remembering the Ladies

Roberts traces the stories of heroic, patriotic women such as Abigail Adams, Martha Washington, Phillis Wheatley, Mercy Otis Warren, Sarah Livingston Jay, and others. Details are gleaned from their letters, private journals, lists, and ledgers. The bravery of these women’s courageous acts contributed to the founding of America and spurred the founding fathers to make this a country that “remembered the ladies.”

This compelling book, based on the author's acclaimed work for adults, Founding Mothers, includes a rich time line, biographies, an author’s note, and additional web resources in the back matter.

Parents and educators looking for a more in-depth book beyond the Rosie Revere and Rad Women series will welcome Founding Mothers.

1776

In this masterful book, David McCullough tells the intensely human story of those who marched with General George Washington in the year of the Declaration of Independence—when the whole American cause was riding on their success, without which all hope for independence would have been dashed and the noble ideals of the Declaration would have amounted to little more than words on paper. Based on extensive research in both American and British archives, 1776 is a powerful drama written with extraordinary narrative vitality. It is the story of Americans in the ranks, men of every shape, size, and color, farmers, schoolteachers, shoemakers, no-accounts, and mere boys turned soldiers. And it is the story of the King’s men, the British commander, William Howe, and his highly disciplined redcoats who looked on their rebel foes with contempt and fought with a valor too little known.

Those Who Love: A Biographical Novel of Abigail and John Adams

Novel unfolds the warm and deeply moving love story of two America's most exciting people : Abigail Smith and John.

Guns for General Washington: A Story of the American Revolution

This exciting middle grade novel is the true story of Will Knox, a nineteen-year-old young man who transported 183 cannons from New York’s Fort Ticonderoga to Boston—in the dead of winter—to help George Washington win an important battle.

Paul Revere's midnight ride...Washington crossing the Delaware...the winter crisis at Valley Forge... Some events in America's War for Independence are known to all. This book brings to history fans the story of another true episode, just as dramatic but not nearly as well known.

As you read these pages, you will agree that Colonel Knox's great adventure was a stirring, suspenseful, and important event in American history.

Dolly Madison; (Landmark books, 47)

Landmark Young Readers of America explores the story of Dolly Madison.

Martha Washington: An American Life

With this revelatory and painstakingly researched book, Martha Washington, the invisible woman of American history, at last gets the biography she deserves. In place of the domestic frump of popular imagination, Patricia Brady resurrects the wealthy, attractive, and vivacious young widow who captivated the youthful George Washington. Here are the able landowner, the indomitable patriot (who faithfully joined her husband each winter at Valley Forge), and the shrewd diplomat and emotional mainstay. And even as it brings Martha Washington into sharper and more accurate focus, this sterling life sheds light on her marriage, her society, and the precedents she established for future First Ladies.

Abigail Adams: Witness to a Revolution

Abigail Adams is often referred to as the wife of one president and the mother of another. Rarely is she described as a woman in her own right. Although her primary focus and concerns were in her role as wife and mother, she lives in history because of her extraordinary letters to her family and to her friends.She was a witness to the gathering storm of the Revolutionary War. She saw the Battle of Bunker Hill from a hilltop near her home, and soldiers marching past her door frequently stopped for a drink of water. Because she was so close to the scene, she was able to give firsthand reports of the American Revolution to her husband and other leaders creating a new government, as she wrote about the times and the people who played vital roles in the birth of our nation.Mingling the intimate with the momentous, she documented what it was like to live at a time when education was not available to young women, and when pregnancy and childbirth meant the fear of death. Colonial women were called upon to make life-and-death decisions for their children, to educate their daughters, and to run their farms when their husbands were away for months, or sometimes for years, at a time. Yet they had, at best, second-class legal and political status.Abigail Adams's independent spirit, her sense of humor, and her remarkable intellect, as shown in her letters, open a wide window on a crucial period in our nation's history, and bring Abigail Adams and her time to life.

Betsy Ross: Designer of Our Flag (Childhood of Famous Americans)

In this narrative biography, you’ll learn all about the childhood of Betsy Ross—from her birth on January 1, 1752, as the eighth of seventeen children, to her Quaker upbringing, to her growing love for sewing and apprenticeship to an upholsterer. Discover how and why Betsy began making flags—and some surprising info about her legendary contribution to America.

8 Facts about First Lady Dolley Madison

  1. Dolley Madison was the wife and the first lady of James Madison, the fourth president of the United States from 1809-1817.
  1. She was expelled from her Quaker community for marrying outside her faith when she wed James Madison (her second husband).
  1. Dolley Madison was known for using her social skills, charm and personal popularity to win over her husband’s political opponents and strongly influenced bipartisan efforts.
  1. Her biggest claim to fame is for saving Washington’s portrait when the British burned the White House in the War of 1812. While she did not carry it out herself, she ordered servants to grab it and carry it to safety.
  1. Lesser known is the fact that she was the first American and the first of all first ladies to answer a telegraph message.
  1. While her husband served as Secretary of State for Thomas Jefferson, Dolley acted as White House hostess for the widowed president Jefferson and set a precedent for excellence among future first ladies.
  1. Dolley was the first lady to decorate the White House, previously filled with used and worn pieces.
  1. This popular first lady was quoted as saying “It is one of my sources of happiness never to desire knowledge of other people’s business.” Smart lady!
How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Next, look at more hands-on American history activities for kids.

More American History Activities for Kids

  • How to Build a Fun White House Sugar Cube George Washington Craft
  • 10 American Revolutionary War Activities | Amazing Tea Bag Rocket Science
  • Fun American Civil War Crafts for Kids and Make Raspberry Jam
  • Free American History Lapbook The Old West Through the Life of Wyatt Earp
  • American Frontier Legends and Hero Paul Bunyan Blue Ox Craft
  • American History Game Fun U.S. President Go Fish Unit Study
  • Free Amazing American Civil War Lapbook and Hands-on Unit Study
  • 18 American History Board Games Which Brings History to Life
  • Amazing and Free American Revolution Lapbook for Multiple Ages

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles

You will need:

  • White cardstock
  • Black cardstock
  • Pencil
  • Glue stick
  • Scissors
  • Printed profile image of historical figure
How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

First, search google for a good side view picture of whoever you want to make a silhouette for. Print it to the size desired.

Cut out the side view picture preserving as much of the profile detail as you can, hair, nose, etc. This will help your figure be more identifiable.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Trace the image with a pencil onto your black cardstock.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Cut out the image carefully.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Cover the entire “backside” with glue and press onto the center of your white cardstock, smooth and press it out well, be sure all the edges adhere to the paper.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

If desired, draw a photo frame around the border of your image with paint or markers.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Once dry, cut your entire page into puzzle shapes, keep the shapes simple and less for younger children and more complicated and more for older children.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

You can also recreate the silhouette effect with your family’s own profile image as well.

How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: american history, americancivilwar, crafts, early American history, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

January 25, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

The Great Sphinx of Giza is the oldest known sculpture in Egypt. Also, grab the Egypt – Famous Pharaohs and Queens Lapbook on my Ancient Civilizations page.

It stands in front of the pyramids on the west bank of the Nile in Giza, Egypt.

And it was created in a quarry to build the pyramids and other structures nearby.

By now you probably know what a fantastic resource LEGO is in your homeschool.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

They can be used for math manipulatives to building iconic treasures like the Great Sphinx of Giza.

We have amassed an astounding number of LEGOs over the years.

Still, I have a tutorial to show you how to build a small replica of the sphinx using basic LEGO pieces that you might find in a basic box except for the face.

But I am also giving you a simpler alternative for that as well.

Ancient Egypt Books for Kids

Next, add some of these books to your learning day.

I lean toward living books to bring a topic to life like history.

Then I add reference books.

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.

Also, look at some of these fun facts about the Great Sphinx of Giza.

Uncovering the Mysteries of The Great Sphinx of Giza

  • Who made it? The mythological statue has the head of a human and the body of a lion. It was built by ancient Egyptians of the Old Kingdom.
  • What is it made from? It is made with a single piece of bedrock. Repairs have been made over time using limestone. This is a single carved piece, not smaller blocks.
  • Where is it located?  Giza, Egypt
  • When was it carved? It was carved in 2500 BC.
  • How big is it? 240 feet long and 66 feet high, it is an impressive sight!
  • Why was it built? It was made for the pharaoh Khafre, the builder of the Second Pyramid at Giza.
  • What happened to his nose? While there are several theories as to what happened to the nose (and it has never been found) close inspection suggests that it was a deliberate act using rods or chisels.
Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Next, look at some more hands-on activities to learn about Ancient Egypt.

Hands-on Activities for Ancient Egypt

  • 7 Fun Ways to Play Go Fish Egyptian Games for Kids
  • Ancient Egypt DIY Simple and Fun Mummification Process Game
  • Egypt Crafts For Kindergarten Create a Fun Kid Sized Mummy
  • Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities
  • The Geronimo Stilton Book Fourth Journey Fun Egypt Game
  • Fun and Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Craft: Create Canopic Jars
  • 11 Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Projects for Middle School
  • Ancient Egyptian Mathematics: Build a LEGO Math Calculator
  • Fun Hands-On History: Ancient Egyptian Collar Craft

Finally, how to make this fun Lego Great Spinx of Giza.

Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

You can find every piece to create your own Sphinx of Giza in this LEGO Classic Creative Box.

You can make your sphinx with any color of bricks.

I chose a light tan to give it the sand look.

You can also use any mix of brick sizes and make the model as large or as small as you wish.

If you are new to building with LEGO, when i say 1×2, etc…

Here is an example of what I mean.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

In addition, for language arts, history and geography you can assign Where Are The Great Pyramids to learn more about the Sphinx as well as the pyramids.

Rather than a list, I am giving you a photo for reference that you can print and have your child gather the pieces or pieces that are as close as possible.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Lay down your base. This is one of the few pieces that does not come in the basic box except in green, so use that if you like.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Place 1×6 pieces on either side, one stud in and one stud away from the edge to create arms.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Fill in a 4×8 area between the “arms” of the monument.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Place another layer of bricks starting on the second stud from the back in a 4×4 grouping.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

For the back half of the lion’s body put pieces together like in this photo

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Use these special rounded pieces to give the straight edges some curve. If you don’t have them you can just finish it off with a straight-edged brick.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

To create the head and headpiece (Nemes) of the pharaoh put these pieces together like this.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Then place them all together.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Put directly in front of the second layer of the body.

If you have the bricks with forward-facing studs this will help create a general face shape.

 If not just use a tall 1×2 brick in its place like this.

Building Wonders: Create the Great Sphinx of Giza with LEGO

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: ancient, ancient civilizations, ancient egypt, egypt, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, historyspine, homeschoolhistory, world history

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