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Free Bird Journal – Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)

April 11, 2023 | 20 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Last year when spring rolled around, I shared a free Bird Journal along with a Bird Identification page. Also, grab more information about birds on my page Hands-on Bird Unit Study and Lapbook.

Tiny had been coloring birds for a few years before I shared it last year. 

Also, I wanted something that could be used both as a coloring journal AND to print a page over and over when we identified birds.

Free Bird Journal - Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)

So this free printable bird journal includes the following pages.

  • Colorful front page for your journal
  • owl coloring page
  • raptor or hawk coloring page
  • cardinals coloring page
  • heron coloring page
  • emeral toucan coloring page
  • spoonbill coloring page
  • sulphur crested cockatoo coloring page
  • cross bill coloring page
  • bob white coloring page
  • quetzal coloring page
  • vulture coloring page
  • song sparrow coloring page
  • catbird coloring page and
  • a beautiful Bird Identification Page which you can print over and over as your children discover new birds

Grab this free and fun Bird Journal which includes high quality coloring pages and bird identification page which allows plenty of room for sketching and noting birding details. CLICK HERE to grab it!

So this year and as all kids do, he has grown up a bit more and wanted the Bird Identification page changed around to allow room for a larger sketch and less coloring.

Free Bird Journal - Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)

Moreover, in the download I included a “field guide” page.

Just add the field page into a page protector and add to your notebook.

Using a 3 ring notebook worked best for us so could keep adding to it each year.

Free Bird Journal - Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages). Last year when spring rolled around, I shared a free Bird Journal along with a Bird Identification page. Also, grab more information about birds on my page Hands-on Bird Unit Study and Lapbook. Also, I wanted something that could be used both as a coloring journal AND to print a page over and over when we identified birds. Free front page for your bird journal and coloring pages with bird identification key. Free 16 pages,

Additionally, if you want to delve into more spring learning look at the NaturExplorers.

Our Journey Westward

However because I know you still may have younger sweeties and kids who probably like to color, I have added a few more bird coloring pages to the Bird Journal.

Free Bird Journal

I also updated the Bird Identification page to allow room for a larger sketch and to use for an older child.

Free Bird Journal - Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages). Last year when spring rolled around, I shared a free Bird Journal along with a Bird Identification page. Also, grab more information about birds on my page Hands-on Bird Unit Study and Lapbook. Also, I wanted something that could be used both as a coloring journal AND to print a page over and over when we identified birds. Free front page for your bird journal and coloring pages with bird identification key. Free 16 pages,

We want to get in the habit of bird watching year around so I created this page so that the season could be easily marked when we’re bird watching. 

Free Bird Journal - Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)

More Fun Learning About Birds Activities

Also, I have so many fun activities for your kids to learn about birds.

  • Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests
  • North American Robin Bird Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Bird Craft For Kindergarten Make an Adorable Fun American Robin Foot Print
  • Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft
  • Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity
  • Wildlife in the Amazon Rainforest – Create Fun Macaw and Toucan Crafts
  • How to Make a Fun Paper Mache American Robin Bird Craft
  • Kid’s Fun and Easy Bird Nest Activity
  • Easy Jumbo Stick Bird Feeder with Kids
  • Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity
  • Make a Fun Bird Nesting Bag
  • Colorful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Unit Study
  • Easy and Fun Nature Study: Beautiful Birds
  • Winter Nature Craft: How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders

But we only seem to do it when we have spring fever.

Grab this free and fun Bird Journal which includes high quality coloring pages and bird identification page which allows plenty of room for sketching and noting birding details. CLICK HERE to grab it!

More Coloring Pages

  • 20 Fun Home School Education Coloring Books to Pair With Unit Studies

In addition, add some fun bird books to use as referenced for the bird journal.

11 Fun Resources and Books to Learn About North American Robin Birds

Studying about North American Robin birds is fun to do anytime of the year with all ages. You'll love adding one ore more of these resources to your study.

1. All About Robins

A robin is one of the most familiar and beloved of all birds that are found throughout North America. You may see robins running across lawns or going after earthworms in your yard or a park. You can also find robins by listening for their clear, melodic singing.There are many facts about robins that most people don’t know. If your children have ever wondered about robins and how they grow from chicks to adult birds, this book is for them. The book contains dozens of beautiful photos of robins from the time they first hatch, to when their mother feeds them, until they take their first flight. It also includes many little-known facts that are sure to captivate young naturalists.

2. Model Backyard Birds Toys

Set of bird figurine toys, which contains 7 different small plastic birds. The weight of bird figure toy is 96G / 0.2LB. The set of small plastic bird contains 7 pieces of toy birds, such as robin, bluebird, oriole, woodpecker, etc. Please refer to the picture for the actual size and color.

3. Big Book of Birds

The book draws in children and parents alike with captivating information about and charming illustrations of hummingbirds, peacocks, flamingos, bald eagles, secretary birds, puffins, red-crowned cranes, and more. The book also invites young bird-watchers to protect birds where they live and make their gardens bird-friendly. The text is chatty, funny, and full of remarkable facts.

4. A Nest Full of Eggs (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 1)

Named a Best Children's Science Book of the Year by Science Books & Films, this picture book shows how the birds develop inside their eggs during the spring; how they mature into fledglings in the summer; how they learn to fly in the fall; and how they leave for warmer climates in winter—only to return when spring comes around again.

5. BACKYARD BIRDSONG GUIDE EASTERN AND CENT (cl) (Cornell Lab of Ornithology)

Suitable for beginning bird watchers, Backyard Birdsongs is an interactive handbook of birds and their songs. With a touch-button electronic module that contains common vocalizations of seventy-five species from across eastern and central North America, this volume offers a truly sensory way to identify and get to know local birds. Crisply detailed, scientifically accurate illustrations accompany each entry, and up-to-date range maps provide clear geographical reference points. With an introduction that will inspire readers to look out their windows and venture into the field, this unique book gives people of all ages an exciting entryway into the subtle art of using birdsong to identify birds.

6. A Nest for Celeste: A Story About Art, Inspiration, and the Meaning of Home (Nest for Celeste, 1)

Beautifully illustrated with hundreds of black-and-white drawings, A Nest for Celeste is a short novel that tells the story a mouse living in the 1800s and his friendship with John James Audubon’s young apprentice. While enjoying this sweet amd appealing story, young readers will also learn about nineteenth-century plantation life and the famous naturalist who was known for his paintings of birds and American wildlife.

7. An Egg Is Quiet: (Picture Book, Kids Book about Eggs)

This stunningly beautiful and wonderfully informative book from award-winning artist Sylvia Long and author Dianna Hutts Aston makes for a fascinating introduction to the vast and amazing world of eggs. Featuring poetic text and an elegant design, this acclaimed book teaches children countless interesting facts about eggs. Full of wit and charm, An Egg Is Quiet will at once spark the imagination and cultivate a love of science.

8. Robins!: How They Grow Up

Robins are the most familiar and beloved of all birds, found throughout North America and celebrated as one of the first signs of spring. But there's a lot about them that most people don’t know! In this visually stunning picture book that features comic-book panels combined with painterly illustrations, Eileen Christelow tells the story of two young robins’ first year, and reveals plenty of little-known facts that are sure to captivate young naturalists. Narrated with humor and filled with kid-pleasing details, this fascinating account of how robins grow up includes an Author’s Note, Glossary, More About Robins, and Sources.

9. Rob the Robin: A Tale of a Feathered Friend

Join Rob the Robin on his adventure as he discovers first the difficulty of surviving a long winter and then the wonders of spring. Written as an early reader, this tale is sure to delight children with captivating photography and pictures that visually tell the story in such a way that will interest both readers and non-readers alike.

10. The American Robin

In this book, Roland Wauer offers a complete natural history of the American Robin for a popular audience. Combining his own observations as a field naturalist with data gleaned from the scientific literature, he described the American Robin from every angle - appearance and biology, distribution, behavior, life cycle, and enemies and threats. In addition, he explores the legends and lore surrounding robins ("Whoever kills a robin redbreast will never have good luck were they to live a thousand years") and offers suggestions for attracting robins to your yard with favorite food, water, landscape plantings, and nesting places.

11. American Robin Plush Authentic Bird Sound

Kids and adults love this bird stuffed animal and are captivated by its realistic sound. They are also great baby toys and used as sensory toys. With one squeeze, Audubon birds produce beautifully authentic bird calls provided by the Cornell lab of Ornithology’s bird recording archives.

Are y’all planning any special project for spring?

How to Get the Free Bird Journal

Now, how to grab the free bird journal. This is a subscriber freebie.

 1) Sign up on my list.
 2) Download your freebie NOW!
 3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

20 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Free Homeschool Resources Tagged With: birdjournal, freeprintables, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, middleschool, nature study, science, sciencecurriculum, spring

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

April 10, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, have a fun volcano unit study. Also, grab more ideas on my best homeschool unit studies page.

Besides, kids love to watch the fiery explosion of an erupting volcano, real or replicated.

I have some great resources for you to put together a volcano unit study for the whole family to enjoy.

Also, I have ideas, fun facts to videos, books, games, art, and anything else you might need to make it explosively good. 

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Additionally, we are going to create an apple volcano.

It is easy and fun for preschoolers and early elementary students.

However, I guarantee if you put your middle school child up to create it from start to finish, he will enjoy this simple activity as well.

Facts about Volcanoes

Also, look at these facts about volcanoes.

  • The word “volcano” comes from Vulcan, the Roman god of fire.
  • Volcanologists are scientists who study volcanoes using methods from geology, chemistry, geography, mineralogy, physics, and sociology.
  • There are about 350 million people who live in the “danger range” of an active volcano.
  • Volcanoes are classified into one of 3 ways-active, dormant, or extinct.
  • Besides on land volcanoes can also be found on the ocean floor and under ice caps.
  • Pompeii was destroyed and buried by a volcano called Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79.
  • Earth’s crust has 17 major, rigid tectonic plates. They float on a hotter, soft layer in the mantle. Volcanoes are often found where tectonic plates are moving apart or coming together.
  • There are three different types of volcanoes – Strato (Composite), Shield, and Dome.

Next, look at some words and questions to include in the volcano unit study.

  • lithosphere: The Earth’s outermost shell.
  • magma:  The liquid rock inside the earth.
  • lava: Magma spewed from a volcano.
  • spew: To forcefully expel something.
  • ash: Dust made from the bits of burnt rock.
  • vent: opening to allow air, heat, or steam to escape.
  • erupt: to explode
  • crater: The circular depression containing a volcanic vent.
  • liquid: not a solid or gas; like milk, water, or juice.
  • atmosphere: The mixture of gases that envelops the Earth.
  • hydrosphere: It is the water on the Earth’s surface contained in oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams, as well as ground water.
  • cryosphere: Water on the Earth’s surface which is frozen such as glaciers; snow; sea, lake, and river ice.

What is a volcano? A volcano is a circular or linear opening in the Earth’s surface through which lava, rock fragments, ash, aerosols, and gases erupt.

Why do volcanoes occur? Because the Earth’s rigid outer shell, the crust and upper mantle, is broken into a mosaic of plates. The plates are in constant motion.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

What are the effects of volcanoes on the Earth? Volcanic eruptions can destroy the landforms they help create.

About the Eruption of Mount St. Helens

Moreover, research about the eruption of Mount St. Helens. On May 18, 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted violently.

For nearly 2 months, scientists had been monitoring changes at Mount St. Helens. Gone were 70 percent of the glaciers that had crowned the volcano.

Within a few minutes of the start of the eruption, the mountain lost 1,312 feet of its height and a gaping crater 2,050 feet deep, 1.7 miles long, and 1.3 miles wide opened on its once nearly symmetrical cone.

Books and Resources for a Homeschool Volcano Unit Study

12 Volcano Books & Resources

Add one or two of these books to learn about volcanoes and add some hands-on ideas to learn about the types of volcanoes.

Volcanoes

Did you know there are four main types of volcanoes? Or that volcanoes are classified as active, dormant, or extinct? The Devil’s Tower in Wyoming is an extinct volcano. It’s about 40.5 million years old!

Birth Of an Island

Simple explanation of how an island is formed. B/ W sketch illustrations.

R&R Games The Table is Lava Family Game

As Dawn breaks, mount kahlualualuau is spewing its fiery lava down onto meepleville. The natives are frantically trying to escape the rivers of lava and remain on safe ground. Whoever’s tribe survives the eruption with the most Meeples shall be the winner!

Volcano: Eruption and Healing of Mt. St Helen's

In this extraordinary photographic essay, Patricia Lauber details the Mount St. Helens eruption and the years following in Volcano: Eruption and Healing of Mt. St. Helen's.Through this clear accurate account, readers of all ages will share the awe of the scientists who witnessed both the power of the volcano and the resiliency of life.

The Kingfisher Science Encyclopedia

Science is vital for every inhabitant of today’s world, and being scientifically informed and literate is a crucial part of any child’s education. Science can seem daunting –- especially as scientific knowledge advances so quickly –- and this volume is the perfect purchase for any family. It will bear repeated use by all the family from 10+ through the teenage years.

All About Volcanoes (A True Book: Natural Disasters) (A True Book (Relaunch))

Conditions on Earth are becoming more and more extreme and kids want to learn about it!

Is it true that, at any given time, about 20 volcanoes are erupting somewhere on Earth? Yes! Sometimes volcanoes erupt with a big, dangerous bang. Other times they spit out lava so slowly that you could walk faster than it flows.

How to Dig a Hole to the Other Side of the World

‘[An] irresistible account of a child’s imaginary 8,000-mile journey through the earth to discover what’s inside. Facts about the composition of the earth are conveyed painlessly and memorably.’ —SLJ. ‘An exciting adventure. . . . Illustrations [by Caldecott Medal winner Marc Simont] explode with color and action.’ —CS.

Volcanoes! (National Geographic Readers)

The cool story of volcanoes will intrigue kids and adults alike. Hot melted rock from the middle of our planet forces its way up through cracks in the Earth’s crusts, exploding violently and sometimes unexpectedly in volcanic fury that can terrorize populations for months, even years.

National Geographic Readers: Erupt! 100 Fun Facts About Volcanoes (L3)

Kids will burst with excitement as they learn all about the science and wonder of volcanoes in this new National Geographic Kids Reader.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Ultimate Volcano Kit – Erupting Volcano Science

UNFORGETTABLE SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS – This is a great hands-on experiment kit for any science fair; the updated mold and instructions make it easy to assemble a sturdy volcano form and realistic paint colors give the volcano a lifelike look.

Natural and Earth Science Educational Flash Card

This set of 48 cards features a colorful illustration on one side and informational facts on the other side.

The Magic School Bus: Blasting off with Erupting Volcanoes

MIX YOUR OWN LAVA: Use the included mixture to form your own “lava” and experiment with explosions by making your own volcano erupt!

Hands-on Activities to Learn About Volcanoes

In addition, learning should always be fun. So, work in a few board games

  • Work some art into your volcano unit study and create this Fizzing Baking Soda Paint Volcano Craft.
  • Draw or trace a cross-section of a volcano, this one is from the Nature Anatomy books. Too, have your child color it in and label the different parts that make up a volcano.
Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano
  • Grab my Mini Volcano Book and Label Layers of Earth Mini Book
  • Challenge your little volcanologist to create a LEGO volcano. Maybe you will have a scientist and people running away as ours did.
  • Try this Glittery Underwater Volcano experiment with preschool and early elementary students.
  • For upper elementary and middle school, you might challenge them to create their own volcano from scratch like this paper mache volcano tutorial.
  • Grab a pumice rock to examine and research how it was formed. The flashcard pictured was one from the Eboo Natural Earth Science cards that went perfectly along with the lesson.
Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Grab a map or globe and try to find the site of different volcano.

For example, locate the largest active land volcano (Mauna Loa in Hawaii), the country with the most volcanoes (The U.S), and the belt called the “Ring of Fire” which encircles the Pacific Ocean.

And locate the world’s 5 most active volcanoes.

  1. Mauna Loa – Hawaii.
  2. Eyjafjallajokull – Iceland. 
  3. Mount Vesuvius – Italy. 
  4. Mount Nyiragongo – Congo. 
  5. Taal Volcano – Philippines.

Videos About Volcanoes

  • Volcanoes For Kids
  • Nature Cat Volcano on PBS
  • Introduction to Volcanoes for Kids
  • Volcano Facts For Kids

Additionally, look at these other volcano unit study ideas.

Other Volcano Unit Study Ideas

  • How to Make A Letter V For Volcano Handprint Craft
  • Celebrate National Vinegar Day With A Hands-on Study of Volcanoes
  • Amazing Volcano Facts For Kids & Awesome Lemon Volcano Experiment
  • How To Make A Lime | Lemon Volcano Science Experiment

More Best Homeschool Unit Studies

Next, here are more best homeschool unit studies.

  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  •  Charlotte’s Web Homeschool Unit Study and Fun Hands-on Ideas
  • Homeschool Unit Study Ideas | Lewis and Clark Exploration Lapbook
  • Mushroom Unit Study and Kids Learning Activities
  • Little House on The Prairie Unit Study and Fun Punched Tin Lantern

More Earth Science Resources

  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • Free Earth Science Lapbook

Apple Volcano Activity

Additionally, a mini volcano like using an apple is a great study of chemical reactions.

Moreover, when baking soda and vinegar combine in a volcano, they make a water and carbon dioxide “eruption” that looks like lava from a volcano.

The best part is that this apple volcano activity can be repeated over and over.

Try different amounts of vinegar, baking soda, and even food coloring to create different effects.

Finally, make this quick and fun volcano activity.

You will need:

  • Large apple
  • White vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Food coloring
  • Large dish with a lip 
  • Knife for cutting the apple
  • Small pouring container

First, use a sharp knife to core and hollow out the apple ½ to ¾ of the way down and around an inch wide.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Carefully drop a couple of heaping teaspoons of baking soda into the hole.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Next, place a few drops of orange and or yellow food coloring on the baking soda and cover it with just a bit more for a colorful surprise.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Too, add 2 drops of dish soap for the best foaming eruptions.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Then, place the apple in a shallow container that has a lip to contain the foamy mess. A baking sheet or dish pan works well.

Next, when ready, have your child carefully pour vinegar into the hole and watch what happens.

Eye droppers, mini plastic beakers, test tubes, or turkey basters are great for little hands to hold and add the liquid with.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

You can see the reaction almost immediately which is the fizzing action flying off the top.

Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano

Last, add more vinegar and faster and you get your satisfying overflowing eruption.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities, My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, science, unit studies, unit study, volcano

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

April 7, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m going to show you how to create a homeschool zoology unit without a curriculum. And I have more ideas about animals on my page Rain Forest – Animals of the Amazon.

Also, in honor of National Zoo Day, I’ll share some resources and have a cute toilet roll fox craft for your younger learners.

In addition, I have some fun zoology notebooking sheets.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Let’s face it, it’s not easy to find a zoology curriculum. However, I will list the few ready made curriculum resources I know about.

First, my goal is to show you how you quickly can put your own homeschool zoology curriculum together.

This method is fabulous for those who love unit studies, unschoolers, Charlotte Mason fans, and even traditional homeschoolers. 

First, let’s look at what exactly is zoology.

What is Zoology

According to dictionary dot com zo·ol·o·gies are the science or branch of biology dealing with animals, a treatise on zoology, the animal life of a particular region.

Zoology covers the study of both domestic and wild animals.

Since we are using Wildlife Anatomy as our main spine we are going to focus on wild animals.

And I’m so over the top excited about this newest release in the series because it makes a perfect spine.

Think of a spine as your main textbook or resource to guide you what to teach and the subjects to cover.

If you have a living book like Wildlife Anatomy: The Curious Lives & Features of Wild Animals around the World you can easily find a starting point.

Use a Living Book as a Spine or Main Text

Think of Wildlife Anatomy as an outline which covers enough topics for your preschooler through middle schooler to get a good solid understanding of zoology.

For example, look at these topics.

  • learn about ecosystems
  • vertebrates versus invertebrates
  • predator versus prey
  • food webs and small bits of information on a variety of animals

You can take as long or as short a time to study zoology as you like with the book.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft

The book first defines an ecosystem and then gives illustrations and descriptions for each as well as a few of its inhabitants.

Subtopics about Zoology

There are pages for types of eaters, a food web diagram, teeth, claws, and hunting tactics.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft

Then the rest of the book goes on to cover individual animals from something as simple as a tarantula to more exotic creatures like axolotls.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft

Furthermore, if you have a child who may want to pursue a career in zoology, study more branches of science.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

How to Pursue a Zoology Path For Older Kids

Namely, biology, chemistry, physics, and even advanced biology. Don’t skip even basic generalized science.

Many homeschooled kids have worked in a veterinary’s office to get a good behind the scenes of how to care for animals.

Additionally, look for ways to volunteer at the following places.

  • Zoo. Many zoos now offer classes for homeschoolers or a way to volunteer.
  • Farm. Look to volunteer at a farm.
  • Animal shelter. Many animal shelters need help and of course as I mentioned your child can volunteer at a veterinary office.
  • If your child has an interest in marine biology many aquariums have classes and volunteer positions as well.

Moreover, there are more curriculum resources than there used to be when students wanted to pursue a zoology path.

I’ve listed some curricula help and fun resources for different ages below to help you flesh out a fun study of animals.

8 Resources for Multiple Ages Who Love Learning About Zoology

I have listed curriculum help to fun hands-on manipulatives for little kids to games and books which even older learners will enjoy.

Realistic Mini Zoo Animal Figurines

This jungle animal figures set was made by hand painted with high realistically detailed appearance, cute face and childish eyes. Their uniquely molded textures and richly painted details make the animals vivid. Children would like to spend more time to observe and play with them.

Safari Ltd. Nature TOOB

THE BEST OF NATURE: Bring the wonder of the great outdoors into your home with the Nature Toob! Including a rabbit, beaver, doe, cardinal, gray wolf, fox, raccoon, black bear, moose, mountain lion, bald eagle, and a bison, this Toob has all kinds of unique animals that fly, hop and saunter!

Professor Noggin's Wildlife of North America Trivia Card Game

FUN FACTS: Journey through the Wildlife of North America discovering facts about our continent’s most interesting animals. From Polar Bears to Pronghorns, from Alligators to Bald Eagles, this game is perfect for young nature lovers.

Professor Noggin's World of Pets Trivia Card Game

Use Professor Noggin Pets card game as a fun way to learn about animals and as an opportunity to discuss the responsibility of owning a pet.

Books and

Photo Credit: campfirecurriculums.com

Through the Eyes of | A Zoologist

A unit study done really well if you want something put together.

All About Oceans - Marine Biology Handbook: 350 Activities - A Creative Unit Study Science, Research, Geography, Drawing & Language Arts

For kids interested in Marine Biologist and learning about interesting sea creatures like the Brittle Stars and aquatic mammals like the Fur Seal.

Endangered, Extinct & Legendary Animals | A Science & Research Handbook: Zoology & Cryptozoology

This is a creative research handbook for students ages 8-17 and up who love earning about extinct, endangered, and mysterious animals. This curriculum handbook is designed to help students study each animal using books, videos, internet, encyclopedias, and any other parent-approved learning tool.

The 100 Series: Biology Workbook—Grades 6-12 Science, Matter, Atoms, Cells, Genetics, Elements, Bonds,

Give your students the reinforcement they need with the 128-page comprehensive Biology Workbook for grades 6–12. Designed to aid in the review and practice of biology topics such as matter and atoms, cells, classifying animals, genetics, plant and animal structures, human body systems, and ecological relationships, this book includes realistic diagrams and engaging activities to support practice in all areas of
biology.

Also, I created some fun zoology notebooking pages.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

For example, I have an animal report which can be used for any animal. Print as many pages of it as your child needs for studying each animal.

Place a picture in the box or have your child draw the animal if he is artistically inclined.

Next, I have a notebooking pages to help your child learn the difference between a mammologist and zoologist.

Last is a simple page but helps your child to identify what is an animal and understand taxonomy.

Next, add some of these fun activities for studying zoology.

Homeschool Zoology Resources

  • Watch a video or two on each animal they study.
  • Read and Google information to complete the worksheet above for each animal.
  • Create artwork, a diorama, a science board, or other creative projects.
  • Play an animal-themed game weekly.

Similarly, hands-on ideas makes learning stick.

Hands-on Homeschool Zoology Ideas & Resources

Truly for this study, I recommend grabbing just a few items.

For instance, Wildlife Anatomy, Professor Noggins Wildlife Safari or Wildlife of North America, and some plastic animals to use for dioramas, sensory bins, art inspiration, and to get a close look of features and other details of the creatures.

  • Watch Introduction to Zoology: What are Animals to kick off your unit.
  • Keep an ant colony to observe.
  • Start an aquarium at home.
  • Watch birds in your backyard or at a park and build a feeder.
  • Prepare a food web or a lifecycle diagram.
  • Watch insects and label their parts.

I have quite a collection of animal figures built up over the years. So, bring out manipulatives for your younger children.

Likewise, learn some new words and definitions.

Zoology Vocabulary

Specifically, ask what is an animal. You’d be surprised at what your children may say.

But here is one way to describe them.

Animals are heterotrophs and belong the kingdom Animalia. And they reproduce.

Heterotrophs are organisms that obtain food by consuming other living things. For younger children use the term consumer.

What are characteristics that all animals share? Not only are all animals heterotrophs but they have eukaryotic cells. Eukaryotic cells are cells which contain a nucleus.

More Zoology Definitions

  • invertebrate – an animal that lacks a backbone or vertebral column
  • vertebrate – an animal which has a backbone
  • carnivore – an organism that obtains energy by eating other animals
  • herbivore – an organism that obtains energy by only eating plants
  • omnivore – an organism that obtains energy by eating by both plants and animals
  • taxonomy – science of naming organisms

And the animal kingdom is huge and diverse. For older kids animals can be classified into two groups which are invertebrates and chordates.

Likewise understanding about biomes is important. Biomes are regions known by their specific climates and plant and animal life.

For instance, land biomes would be tundra, grassland, rainforests, coniferous forest and deciduous forest.

Next water biomes would be marine and freshwater. As well as ecosystems in water can be divided into lakes, ponds, oceans, and flowing waters.

Finally, I have a fun toilet roll fox craft for your eager learners.

However, look at some facts about foxes.

Quick Fox Facts for a Homeschool Zoology Unit

  • Foxes are shy secretive animals.
  • The Canidae family includes foxes, dogs, wolves, jackals, and coyotes.
  • If you’re looking for tracks like in snow keep in mind foxes travel in straight lines while a pet dog wanders in all directions.
  • One unusual behavior hunting technique of the fox is that it jumps high into the air and then falls directly onto its prey.
  • Some prey of the fox are rabbits, snakes, birds, rats, squirrels, gophers, weasels and even chickens and cats.
  • Red foxes are found in North America, Asia, and Europe.

How to Make a Toilet Paper Roll Fox Craft

You will need:

  • Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls
  • Orange and white construction paper
  • Orange paint
  • Googly eyes
  • Paintbrush
  • Black pen/marker
  • Scissors
  • Glue

To create your fox family ears fold about ¾” down on one side of the top of the roll and the same on the other side. Secure the two sides together with hot glue.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Once the glue is dried and set it is ready to paint completely with orange paint. Allow it to dry fully.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

While waiting for the paint to dry you can cut small semi-circles for feet out of the white construction paper and cut out faces for each fox.

Remember as a kid folding paper in half and cutting out half a heart along the fold to get a symmetrical heart?

Do that again to create the light face. The half should be just a little smaller than 1” at the widest part.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Hot glue googly eyes into place on either side of the top bows of the heart and draw a small black nose and mouth near the bottom.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Cut a “bushy” tail out of orange construction paper.

Trace around the top 1” or so on white construction paper and cut it out.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Make a zig pattern across the bottom. Glue white onto the orange for the white tip of the tail.

How to Create a Homeschool Zoology Unit Without a Curriculum and Cute Fox Craft (notebooking pages)

Attach the tail to the back of the roll. Put them at different angles to give each a unique personality.

More Resources to Learn About Animals

  • How Animals Survive Harsh Winters Fun Blubber Activity
  • Easy Hands-on Science: Animal Camouflage Activity Hunt
  • Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests
  • How Animals Cope With the Cold 
  • Animals of the Galapagos Islands
  • 6 World Wildlife Day Activities to Learn About African Lions
  • Egg to Sea Turtle Lesson Plans & Lapbook
  • Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids
  • Deer Unit Study & Notebooking Pages
  • Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop
  • Free North American Robin Bird Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Toad and Frog Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Ocean Lapbook and Fun Homeschool Unit Study Ideas
  • Beautiful Bald Eagle Fun Facts And Torn Paper Bird Craft

How to Get the Free Homeschool Zoology Notebooking Pages

Now, how to grab the free notebooking pages. This is a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get access to this freebie.

Just follow the steps below.

► 1) Sign up on my list.
► 2) You’ll receive the freebie instantly and are a follower by emails now.
 ►3) Last step. look for my emails in your inbox for great resources.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: crafts, curriculum, fox, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolcurriculum, life science, notebooking, zoo

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

April 6, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fun homeschool solar system unit study and hands-on planets activity today. Also, grab more ideas on my best homeschool unit studies page and Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages page.

Further, our solar system is made up of our star, the sun, and the 8 planets that are bound to it by gravity, as well as asteroids and comets.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

How did you memorize the order of the planets?

Was it a funny little sentence or was it through classes and papers? Probably a combination of both.

We used this mnemonic.

My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles or Mars, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune. 

Besides a homeschool solar system unit study can be informative. And fun if you include lots of hands-on activities which allow your child to learn while having fun.

Hands-on Solar System Unit Study Activities

Here is a full list of hands-on activities, books, games, and more to help you round out your solar system unit study.

Younger children will enjoy this simple activity How Planets Orbit The Sun to learn about orbit.

If you have a LEGO loving learner they will really enjoy learning how to Build a LEGO Solar System.

And How to Make an EASY Straw Rocket.

Moreover little hands especially like to be busy.

This DIY Solar System Playdough Kit lets them work on fine motor skills while learning, it is a great quiet activity while listening to you read aloud.

Learning can be fun and delicious. Try out these Solar System Cookies.

This Homeschool Solar System Unit Study s a great companion study with my About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study

Upper elementary and middle schoolers will really enjoy this Pick a Planet Activity where they choose a planet and make a brochure to persuade visitors to come.

Also, create a Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark).

These Earth Cookies are the perfect companion to a lesson on our home planet.

In addition, add some of these fun books to use as a spine or main text in this solar system unit study.

Resources and Books to Learn About the Solar System

11 Astronomy Resources & Books

Add one or two books to your unit study or use one as a spine for studying about space.

The Planets

From the burning surface of Venus to the freezing darkness of Neptune, Gail Gibbons takes children on a tour of our planetary neighbors—which are very different from each other in size, shape, orbit, and even weather.

The Planets

With her bestsellers Longitude and Galileo's Daughter, Dava Sobel introduced readers to her rare gift for weaving complex scientific concepts into a compelling narrative. Now Sobel brings her full talents to bear on what is perhaps her most ambitious topic to date-the planets of our solar system. Sobel explores the origins and oddities of the planets through the lens of popular culture, from astrology, mythology, and science fiction to art, music, poetry, biography, and history. Written in her characteristically graceful prose, The Planets is a stunningly original celebration of our solar system and offers a distinctive view of our place in the universe.

Who Was Neil Armstrong?

On July 20, 1969, Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and, to an audience of over 450 million people, proclaimed his step a "giant leap for mankind."

Find the Constellations

Containing star charts, a guide to the constellations, and details about seasons and the movement of the objects we see in the sky, this classic book makes H. A. Rey’s passion for astronomy evident on every page.

New updates concentrate on the planetary and solar system information in the latter part of the book. Facts and figures for each planet have been revised, and new scientific information has been added, such as Pluto’s reclassification as a dwarf planet.

Where Is Our Solar System?

Our solar system consists of eight planets, as well as numerous moons, comets, asteroids, and meteoroids. For thousands of years, humans believed that Earth was at the center of the Universe, but all of that changed in the 17th century. Astronomers like Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei, Johannes Kepler, and Isaac Newton proposed the unthinkable theory that Earth and the other planets actually revolved around the Sun. 

Signs and Seasons Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

Gorgeous. Worth every penny! Signs & Seasons is an introduction to “Classical Astronomy,” the traditional, historical approach to the sky, as had been practiced from ancient times. The biblical basis for astronomy

The Mysteries of the Universe: Discover the best-kept secrets

Space is so much bigger than young minds can fathom and there is always more to learn. The Mysteries of the Universe is a stunning space encyclopedia for young readers to explore, with reference pages packed with fascinating information, little learners will be captivated as they journey through the vastness of the Universe. 

Basher Science: Astronomy: Out of this World!

Like a Facebook for the universe, Astronomy gives every important celestial body and concept its own page, where readers can learn its behaviors, likes, and dislikes up close and personal. From the flashy stars to the shadowy and strange objects that hang out like loners at the edges of the universe, no player goes unnoticed. 

Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky, The

The Stargazers Guide to the Night Sky offers everything you need to explore the remarkable beauty of the stars, moon, and planets. Dr. Jason Lisle, a research scientist with a masters and Ph.D. in astrophysics provides a very thorough, practical and easy to read resource to fuel the curiosity of amateur astronomers ages 10 to 100.

Solar System Puzzle Wooden Space Toys for Kids

【Planet Toys for Kids】Our wooden solar system puzzle is the PERFECT CHOICE for you and your kids as it is made from natural wood, vivid planet patten with well designed. This preschool learning activities is suitable for 3+ years kids and represents the perfect activity to learn through play!

Solar System Planetarium - DIY Glow In The Dark Astronomy Planet Model

The Solar System Planetarium set teaches children about the wonders of the solar system. Just assemble, paint and learn.

This set includes planets, stencils, squeeze glow paint pen, rods, string, a fact filled wall chart and 10 sets of Kidz Quiz questions.

Too, add these videos to your unit study.

  • The Planet Song– Learn the 8 planets that make up our solar system with a catchy tune.
  • Planets of Our Solar System from Homeschool Pop.
  • Generation Genius is free and offers this this video on The Solar System and lots of other resources like discussion questions and reading material to go along with it.
  • Incredible Facts About the Planets in Our Solar System is a quick way to learn tidbits about each of the amazing planets in a short amount of time.
  • Let’s Make the Solar System | Arts and Crafts! | SciShow Kids.

The sun, an average star, is the central and largest body in the solar system.

Four planet Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars are called the terrestrial or Earth planets.

They formed in the inner part of our solar system.

The larger planets Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune consist mostly of dense fluids like liquid hydrogen.

Additionally, grab these free resources to learn about the solar system.

  • STEM Engagement at NASA
  • E-books from Nasa
  • Sorting the Solar System Free downloadable lesson plans where your child learns that the solar system is not just limited to the planets.
  • Fun Solar System Scavenger Hunt
  • How Big is the Solar System?

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

More Best Homeschool Unit Studies

  • Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano
  • Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  • Charlotte’s Web Homeschool Unit Study and Fun Hands-on Ideas
  • Homeschool Unit Study Ideas | Lewis and Clark Exploration Lapbook
  • Mushroom Unit Study and Kids Learning Activities
  • Little House on The Prairie Unit Study and Fun Punched Tin Lantern

Grab a copy of my Astronomy Lapbook and learn about the solar system and more.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity
  • Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Astronomy Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Further, look at this easy activity to learn about the solar system hands-on.

Homeschool Solar System Unit Study Hands-on Planet Activity

You will need:

  • Black Foam Board
  • Colorful Cardstock/construction paper
  • White Cardstock
  • White paint
  • Various circle objects
  • Watercolor paints
  • Paintbrushes
  • Glue Stick

Directions:

Decide if you want to layout your planets in various places in orbit or in a straight line on one side.

You may choose to adjust the size based on nearness to the sun or actual size in comparison to the sun.

In addition, you can use a drafting compass for making your circles, but it was fun scouring the house for circle items like bowls, cups, knickknacks, jars, etc. for tracing.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Trace your round objects on cardstock, making the largest circle for the sun.

Check google for reference or use a book to decide on which colors to use.

I used The Planets by Gail Gibbons to get a general idea of base color and variations.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Cut out each circle.

Use watercolors to add details to each of your planets, alternatively you could do this with crayons or markers as well, I just love the look the watercolors give.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Allow the paint to dry completely, it shouldn’t take too long.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Moreover, if you want to add stars to your solar system, splatter the foam board with a little white paint and add tiny dots for stars and comets before adding your planets.

Glue your sun to the center of the board.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Trace circles with a pencil around the sun to create light lines for orbits, large bowls or platters work great for this. You can create 8 for each of the planets if you have space.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Lastly, begin adding the planets to the board with glue in order of closeness to the sun – Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and finally Neptune.

Write or type – sun and names of each of the planets on cardstock for labeling.

Have your child glue them into the correct place.

Fun Homeschool Solar System Unit Study and Hands-on Planets Activity

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronomy, earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, planets, science, solar system, space

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

April 4, 2023 | 5 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This time of year is perfect for fun hands-on honey bee activities to buzz deeper into their lives and learn more about them. Also, grab more ideas on my Honey Bees Unit Study page.

Bees are fascinating little creatures that fly even though they should not be able to,

They spend their days gathering pollen, making honey, and building amazing little worlds to store it in.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

Today we are going to create and explore the various cells in a hive.

It is a great activity for all ages.

Some of your kids might need a little more help than others creating it but even toddlers as you can see here will enjoy exploring and building the hive.

Honey Bee Facts

First, look at some honey bee facts.

  • Each beehive is made up of thousands of hexagonal thin-walled fragile cells.
  • Bees create hexagonal shapes for their cells because the six-sided cells fit perfectly without leaving any space in between, circles would leave wasted gaps.
  • The queen honey bee is about twice the length of a worker.
  • Each hardworking little honey bee only makes about 1/12 of a teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.
  • The tiny tips of the antennae of a honey bee have more than 300 taste sensors.
  • The ancient Egyptians and other civilizations used honey as food, medicine, and as a beauty treatment.

Next, add some of these fun books about bees to your nature study.

8 Honey Bees Unit Study Resources & Books

Add some of these fun resources to your bees unit study or spring unit study.

Bees: A Honeyed History

One part science, one part cultural history, and countless parts fascination, Bees: A Honeyed History celebrates the important role that these intriguing insects have played in our ecosystem throughout the ages, and today.

The Beekeeper's Bible: Bees, Honey, Recipes & Other Home Uses

Part history book, part handbook, and part cookbook, this illustrated tome covers every facet of the ancient hobby of beekeeping, from how to manage hives safely to harvesting one’s own honey, and ideas for how to use honey and beeswax. Detailed instructions for making candles, furniture polish, beauty products, and nearly 100 honey-themed recipes are included. Honeybees, which are critical in the pollination of popular US produce such as almonds, apples, and blueberries, are actually not native to the Americas. The honeybee that you see dancing from flower to flower in farms and gardens originated in Europe. The introduction of the honeybee began with European colonization of the Americas; before that, wild native bees, other insects, and some birds and mammals pollinated the native flowers of the continent. The honeybee’s ability to pollinate crops, produce honey, and be easily domesticated precipitated the growth in beekeeping all over America.

Flight of the Honey Bee: Read and Wonder

Follow the flight of a honey bee as she searches for nectar to sustain her hive and, along the way, pollinates flowers to produce seeds and fruits. Nature lovers and scientists-to-be are invited to explore the fascinating life of a honey bee.

Life Cycle of a Honey Bee

Honey Bees are fascinating creatures which have been kept by humans for centuries. Now you can explore the life cycle of the honey bee without being stung. Watch as it grows from an egg, to a larva, and to a pupa before finally emerging as a mature adult.

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

Always a favorite when doing any kind of nature study, there are a few pages that cover different types of bees, common nectar sources, and bee anatomy. If you don't have this set already I cannot recommend it enough for nature studies.

Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

One of the companion books to Nature Anatomy, the farm version covers all parts of farming, machinery, and crops but it also caught my eye because it even covers Beekeeping for aspiring beekeepers. It goes over bee terminology, parts of a bee, the parts of a hive, types of bees, flower parts, and beekeeper essentials. These books really put a lot of info into compact parts.

The Life and Times of the Honeybee

Why do beekeepers use smoke machines when collecting honey? Can a bee really sting only once? Why do bees "dance"? In concise, detailed text and abundant illustrations that range from the humorous to the scientific, Charles Micucci offers a wide-ranging and spirited introduction to the life cycle, social organization, and history of one of the world's most useful insects.

The Magic School Bus Inside a Beehive

When the Magic School Bus turns into a beehive, Ms. Frizzle's class learns firsthand about how workers, drones, and the queen bees live together. Readers will be abuzz with knowledge as they discover how honeybees find food; make a comb, honey, and beeswax; and care for their young, all from the bee's perspective.

Third, look at these 7 honey bee activities.

7 Honey Bee Activities

Besides, hands-on is the best way for learning to stick.

1. Make a Bee Sensory Bin.

Take a bee life cycle set and use it as a base for a sensory bin or put it out on your bee themed science shelf.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

2. Learn about the different types of cells in a comb.

Visit BeeManiacs to learn a little more about the different cells of a honey beehive.

3. Taste honey straight from the comb.

You can grab honey from your local produce stand if you can’t taste it straight from the comb.

If you have a friendly beekeeper locally, consider planning a field trip to see how the process works firsthand.

4. Make honey slime.

DIY Honey Slime is a great sensory activity for your little beekeepers.

5. Honey bee play activity.

Littles will love this Beekeeper Dramatic Play.

6. Create a bee lapbook.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity
  • Dynamic Honey Bee Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Honey Bee Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Look at the fun felt craft below.

7. Make a fun felt beehive.

Also, you’ll love these other bee activities.

Fun Bee Activities for Kids

  • Make a Mason Bee Habitat
  • Labeling Parts of a Honey Bee LEGO Fun Activity For Kids
  • Fascinating and Fun Honey Bees Unit Study and Lapbook for Kids

Finally, look at this fun hand-on honey bee felt comb.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

How to Make a Felt Honey Bee Comb

You will need:

  • White felt
  • 2 shades of yellow felt
  • 3 shades of brown/tan felt
  • Yellow and gold paint-optional
  • Scissors
  • Pencil
  • Printout of a hexagon shape on cardstock
7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

I found a hexagon on Google and reduced it to 20%.

You can make your hive cells any size that you would like larger or smaller. Print on cardstock so it’s a bit sturdier to use as a template.

Use a pencil to trace the hexagon for as many cells as you would like on the yellows and the two lighter browns.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

Cut them out and trim them if needed by holding the template over the felt to make sure they will line up nicely.

Make a Felt Honey Bee Comb

You are going to assign one color for each cell- eggs and larvae, pollen, honey, and brood cells.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

If you want to add a bit more detail to your hive use paint to add details.

Make “dripping” honey on some of your uncapped cells and paint other solids to represent the capped honey cells.

I did this with a mixture of yellow and gold paint.

For pollen cells, simply make yellow “pollen” dots by dipping the handle end of your paintbrush into paint and dotting the cells.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

Allow the paint to dry fully.

Use the white felt to cut small eggs and a few small larvae.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

While the paint is drying, cut out your beehive.

I did a beehive shape like you would see hanging from the limbs with Winnie the Pooh dipping his hand in.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

You could make a man-made beehive frame or any other type you like.

I found a lot of great examples of different beehives in Bees a Honeyed History.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

Finally, assemble the cells in your beehive.

In a real beehive honey cells are at the top with pollen cells below.

Then the pupae and egg cells, brood cells further down, and a peanut-shaped queen cell at the bottom which we made by using two hexagons together.

You can glue them down if you like but if you have younger children, I recommend leaving them loose so they can take them apart and rebuild it over and over.

Using bee figurines to play with and explore the hive.

The bee life cycle set from Safari Ltd. is perfect to demonstrate the different stages of bees you would find in the hive.

You can also create a little honey bee by twisting yellow and black pipe cleaners together and cutting them off at about 1” long, twist on a small piece of white pipe cleaner for wings.

Another great extension for this activity is heading outside to find flowers either in the garden or growing wild to investigate pollen firsthand.

7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a Bee Hive With Felt Activity

5 CommentsFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: bees, crafts, elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science, spring, spring crafts

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