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6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

July 28, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 6 facts about mountain lions and a fun mountain lion diorama. Also, you may love the ideas on my post 6 World Wildlife Day Activities to Learn About African Lions.

Today, we’re making an upcycled mountain lion diorama that pairs perfectly with a mountain lion unit study.

Mountain lions have 40 different names. For example, look at these names.

  • Cougar
  • Mountain Lion
  • Puma
  • Panther
  • Catamount
  • Colorado Cougar
  • Texas Lion, and
  • Patagonian Puma to name a few.
6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

They have the widest range amongst all the wild cats in the western hemisphere, covering parts of Canada, the United States, and most of the South American countries.

They make a beautiful and interesting subject for our latest diorama.

One thing I really love is a craft that uses recycled materials that we’re going to end up in the trash bin.

They’re likely to end up there eventually anyway but this gives a little bit longer life and saves a lot of money because we had to buy almost nothing for this project.

I used a science board I already had on hand from Dollar Tree but you can just use leftover cardboard from a delivery box.

You might need some small plastic animals if you don’t have any. I have a suggestion below that can be used for many things.

Before we jump in let’s learn a few facts about the mountain lion and what sets them apart from other cats in the wild.

Mountain Lion Diorama – 6 Facts To Pounce On

  1. Because their larynxes are different from those of other big cats, they never roar. Rather they sound more like a person whistling, a bird chirping, or even a woman screaming. You can listen to that eerie scream here. How eerie!
  2. The young look very different from mature cats, mountain lion cubs have blue eyes and dark spots when they are born.
  3. When you think of mountain lions you may think of slow, slinking creatures but they can run up to 50 mph.
  4. A mountain lion’s preference for prey is deer but as opportunistic predators, they will eat raccoons, elk, moose, antelope, mountain goats, horses, and bighorn sheep.
  5. They are amazing jumpers; they can jump as high as 18 feet off the ground.
  6. Mountain lions are not considered “big cats”, but they are the largest of the “small cats” at 90 to 175 pounds and standing 2’-3’ tall at the shoulder.

First, I like to grab my handy dandy anatomy books.

I was able to find information on panthers and mountain lions for comparison in our Wildlife Anatomy book.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

In Nature Anatomy you can see a small excerpt on the mountain Lion but also information on mountains, some of its prey animals, and more.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Next, look at some more ideas for lion activities.

More Mountain Lion Activities

  • Mountain Lion Printable Craft.
  • How to Handle a Mountain Lion Encounter
  • How to Draw Cougars, Mountain Lion
  • Mountain Lion Coloring Craft
  • Mountain Lion Mask
  • Bobcat vs Mountain Lion: How to Tell the Difference
  • Here is a great National Geographic documentary on The Secret Lives of the Mountain Lion Family.
6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Finally, look how to make this mountain lion diorama.

How to Make a Mountain Lion Diorama

You will need:

  • Trifold science board
  • Brown paper bag/brown shipping paper
  • Styrofoam packaging
  • Green construction paper
  • Small pebbles and twigs with leaves
  • Green, blue, and tan craft paints
  • Hot glue gun
  • Small plastic animals
6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Once you have decided where your mountain lion is living, cougars like dense forests, coastal swamps, rocky cliffs, and mountain ranges as their habitat you can begin building.

I am walking you through creating a mountain diorama.

First, cut a trifold science board into half and then cut off half of that so you have just half of one flap and half of the center.

Next, cut off the other half of the centerpiece. We will use that for the base.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Paint the top blue like the sky and the bottom third a tan like your mountain color, tan for this model. Allow it to dry.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Grab the piece of cardboard you are going to use for your base and cover it in glue.

Crinkle up the green paper, smooth it, and press it into the adhesive on your board.

Crinkling gives your “grass” some nice texture.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Add additional color and texture with dabs of green paint if you like.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Once your background is dry, bend it so that it creates an L shape and adhere it to the base with a generous line of hot glue. Hold it in place until it sets.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Now, cut up your styrofoam to resemble mountain shapes.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Glue to the board.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Crinkle up a big piece of brown paper and then smooth it out as you did with the green.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Press all over the styrofoam to cover, glue in place, and add more as needed, trim off the excess.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Gather up the stones, moss, and twigs you have collected and glue them on the ground as well as up the mountain.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Add a water source coming down the mountain across the land, animals always like to stay near a good water source.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Place your mountain lion and a prey animal or two.

I think our mountain lion is stalking the thirsty raccoon who stopped for a drink.

6 Facts About Mountain Lions and How to Make a Fun Mountain Lion Diorama

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: animals, diorma, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, life science, lions, science

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

July 27, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fantastic Amelia Earhart craft to go along with any study you might be doing about the famous trailblazing pilot. Also, look at Amazing Facts about Amelia Earhart and Fun Aviator Goggle Craft.

Amelia Earhart broke records opened the world of aviation for women and inspired many to push flying to its limits.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

To honor her life while we learn about her accomplishments, we are making a bottle buddy Amelia Earhart craft.

It is perfect for an at-home project or would be great as part of a co-op presentation.

“I lay no claim to advancing scientific data other than advancing flying knowledge. I can only say that I do it because I want to.”– Amelia Earhart

7 Fun Facts About Amelia Earhart

  1. Amelia was the first president of the organization the Ninety-Nines, an organization for women aviators.
  2. Amelia Earhart was just the 16th woman to earn an international pilot’s license.
  3. She was the first female passenger to fly across the Atlantic.
  4. Amelia was the first woman to fly across North America and back on a solo journey.
  5. She was the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
  6. She set a world altitude record of 18,415 feet.
  7. If she had succeeded in circumnavigating the globe, Amelia Earhart would have been the first woman to manage the feat.

“Some of us have great runways already built for us. If you have one, take off! But if you don’t have one, realize it is your responsibility to grab a shovel and build one for yourself and for those who will follow after you.”- Amelia Earhart

Also, look at some of these resources about Amelia Earhart.

6 Fun Amelia Earhart Resources

Bring your aviator unit study to life by adding some of these fun resources.

Who Was Amelia Earhart?

Amelia Earhart was a woman of many "firsts." In 1932, she became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. In 1935, she also became the first woman to fly across the Pacific. From her early years to her mysterious 1937 disappearance while attempting a flight around the world, readers will find Amelia Earhart's life a fascinating story.

Amelia Earhart (Inspired Inner Genius)

Then, you will love our child-friendly biography of Amelia Earhart! Use this exciting biography book to instill timeless values & principles in your child.

I am Amelia Earhart (Ordinary People Change the World)

Amelia Earhart refused to accept no for an answer; she dared to do what no one had ever done before, and became the first woman to fly a plane all the way across the Atlantic Ocean. This biography follows her from childhood to her first flying lessons and onward to her multi-record-breaking career as a pilot. This friendly, fun biography series inspired the PBS Kids TV show Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. One great role model at a time, these books encourage kids to dream big. Included in each book are:   • A timeline of key events in the hero’s history   • Photos that bring the story more fully to life   • Comic-book-style illustrations that are irresistibly adorable   • Childhood moments that influenced the hero   • Facts that make great conversation-starters   • A character trait that made the person heroic and that readers can aspire to 

Amelia Earhart: Pioneer of the Sky! (Show Me History!)

When Amelia Earhart became the first woman to make a solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932, she immediately became an American icon and a subject of endless fascination for generations to come. In Amelia Earhart: Pioneer of the Sky!, the story of the bold and daring aviator’s life is presented in graphic novel format, with full-color illustrations and historically accurate details. From her hardscrabble childhood to her final flight—and mysterious disappearance—Earhart’s journey will entertain, captivate, and inspire readers of all ages.

The Story of Amelia Earhart: A Biography Book for New Readers

Amelia Earhart became the first woman pilot to fly alone across the Atlantic Ocean in an airplane―and she broke many other flight records before her mysterious disappearance. Before she made history and changed the world for pilots everywhere, Amelia was an adventure-loving kid who wasn’t afraid to be different. She worked hard and learned how to fly airplanes at a time when many people didn’t think women should be pilots. Explore how Amelia Earhart went from being a young girl growing up in Kansas to an American hero and a celebrated pioneer of flight.

Safari Ltd In The Sky TOOB

In the sky themed figurines by Safari Ltd. Airplanes, blimp, helicopter, hot air balloon, space shuttle and more replicas have been handpainted and researched for accuracy. Pieces come in a clear """"toob"""" with a globe top and facts on the inside. These figures are perfect for displays, playing pretend, and more! 12 pieces per package.

Next, look at some more resources and activities to learn about Amelia Earhart.

More Amelia Earhart Resources and Activities

Add some of these fun activities to your post.

  • Amazing Facts about Amelia Earhart and Fun Aviator Goggle Craft
  • How to Draw Amelia Earhart Tutorial
  • Women’s History Month Craft – Amelia Earhart’s Airplane
  • Amelia Earhart Fact File
  • How to Make a Paper Airplane Launcher
  • How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft
How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Next, look how to make this fun bottle buddy craft.

You can use any size bottle that you have on hand from a 16 oz to a 2 liter for this project. This is all about low stress.

We are not using a template; it will be quick and easy to measure right on the bottle.

I have seen these in the past made with a foam ball for the head, you could certainly do that, but this was a very frugal and no-fuss way to make it with things you probably already have on hand.

Because we may all be using different size bottles, I am not going to give exact measurements.

I measured mine simply by holding the felt up to the bottle, marking and cutting as needed.

How to Make A Bottle Buddy Amelia Earhart Craft

You will need:

  • 20 oz, 1 or 2-liter bottle
  • Craft felt-brown, black, tan, white, red
  • Paper bag
  • Google eyes
  • Light brown/yellow yarn
  • Hot glue gun/glue sticks
How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

First, remove the label from the bottle and wash it out well.

You can add back in a few inches of clean water to act as a weight because your bottle buddy will be a bit top-heavy.

Because we have layers, we are not going to wrap each color felt all the way around so want to cut a piece of tan felt (pants) that wraps around the base of your bottle and is about ¼ of the height.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Cut a rectangular piece of white (shirt) that goes from the top of the tan to an inch or two below the neck of the bottle and wraps around about 1/3rd of the bottle.

You can tape them down temporarily with low tack tape to make sure that your whole bottle will be covered.

Next, wrap a piece of dark brown (bomber jacket) around the bottle so that it just overlaps the white and the tan pants at the bottom, and has an inch or so of excess at the top.

We are not going to glue them down yet because we must put her head on first. Set these pieces aside for now.

Make a head by stuffing a brown paper bag with scrap felt or paper, squeezing and moving it around until you are happy with the shape.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Bottle Buddy Amelia Earhart Craft

Draw on a mouth, nose, and eyes or use google eyes if you like.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Use hot glue to attach a few short pieces of yarn that will be coming out of her pilot’s cap, you don’t have to do the whole head unless you want to.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Trim the excess off the bag then wrap it around the neck of the bottle and tie it on tightly with a piece of string. We are ready to start putting her together.

Hot glue the shirt and pants in place and use a marker to draw the center leg line on the pants.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Wrap the dark brown piece of felt you cut to use as a jacket and glue it in place, leaving some excess at the top, fold this down to make a collar.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Cut a long piece of skinny red felt and make little fringes on either end.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Wrap and hot glue into place around her neck.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

To create her pilot’s cap, center an entire piece of 8×12 fabric onto her head letting some of the hair peek out. At this point, you can add more if you feel like it needs it. Hot glue the center down.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Cut the flaps and any excess off then continue gluing it in place all the way around.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

To finish off Amelia’s’ pilot costume we need to make her flying goggles.

Start by cutting a rectangle long enough to wrap over the top of her head from one side of the cap to the other.

Use a black marker to draw the eye openings.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Cut eye holes out.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

Affix to the top of her cap with hot glue.

How to Make a Fun Bottle Buddy of the Trailblazing Pilot Amelia Earhart Craft

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

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

July 23, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have 7 Wyatt Earp and the cowboy facts and a fun gun holster handicraft. Also, your kids will love this Free American History Lapbook The Old West Through the Life of Wyatt Earp.

Too, today is a tribute to National Day of the Cowboy which is the fourth Saturday in July. It really began in the heart of Texas.

However, we’re also learning about Wyatt Earp.

One thing about Wyatt Earp and the cowboys is that they always had a gun in a holster at their side in the wild untamed west.

Many boys and girls love pretending that they are taming the Wild West, protecting their wagons, etc. So, I thought the perfect craft for this theme is a diy gun holster.

We are going to fashion a quick but serviceable holster with just felt and embroidery thread so our little gunslingers can get on the move.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

But let’s learn more about Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys before we make our holster.

Grab your favorite add-on activities, games, and books from my resources below.

One side was lawmen, the other outlaws.

You have likely heard of the Gunfight at the Okay Corral in Tombstone, Arizona between them.

However, that was just one story in the long hard life of Wyatt Earp.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts

  1. Wyatt Earp was larger than life indeed. He stood 6 feet when the average height was only about 5 feet 6 inches, his brothers were also tall.
  2. The 1881 Gunfight at the OK Corral in Tombstone is believed to only have lasted 30 seconds.
  3. Wyatt’s life was a restless one. At various times throughout his life, he held many different positions, such as a constable, city policeman, county sheriff, Deputy U.S. Marshal, Deputy Sheriff, teamster, buffalo hunter, saloon owner, gambler, mine owner, bouncer and a boxing referee.
  4. Earp was the last surviving participant of the OK Corral shootout, dying at home at the age of 80 years old.
  5. At just 17, Wyatt left his home and went to work hauling freight and grading track for the Union Pacific Railroad.
  6. After he left Tombstone, Wyatt Earp moved around the West, and he ended up settling in California with Josephine Marcus.
  7. At age 62, Earp was hired to work for the Los Angeles Police Department to perform tasks considered “outside the law”.

:

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Next, look at more hands-on activities about Wyatt Earp and the cowboys.

More Activities for Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys

  • I think it would be really fun to also add this Printable Sheriff’s Badge craft to go along with your DIY holster.
  • For older kids, this version of Wyatt Earp on Amazon Prime might be a good option for your family.
  • You could also create your own “Wanted Poster” for crimes like stealing cookies from the cookie jar or unlawful noise level.
  • Free American History Lapbook The Old West Through the Life of Wyatt Earp
  • Set the mood with a little wild west backdrop in the form of a Desert Sunset Painting.
  • Free Printable History Board Game – American History Through the Life of Wyatt Earp
  • Learning American History through the Life of Wyatt Earp – Hands-on Activities
  • I have a Children’s Encyclopedia of American History that had several wonderful pages on the expansion West, Wild West celebrities, and settling the West.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft
  • Not Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys specific but What Was The Wild West is a great supplement to learn all about the wild west.

Also, add some of these books and fun resources.

American History Through the Eyes of Wyatt Earp Resources

Add one or two of these books to your unit study about Wyatt Earp who lived between 1848 and 1929.

Wyatt Earp : U. S. Marshal (Landmark Books #67)

- Possibly the greatest gunfighter the Old West ever knew.

Tombstone: The Earp Brothers, Doc Holliday, and the Vendetta Ride from Hell (Frontier Lawmen)

On the afternoon of October 26, 1881, eight men clashed in what would be known as the most famous shootout in American frontier history. Thirty bullets were exchanged in thirty seconds, killing three men and wounding three others.The fight sprang forth from a tense, hot summer. Cattle rustlers had been terrorizing the back country of Mexico and selling the livestock they stole to corrupt ranchers. The Mexican government built forts along the border to try to thwart American outlaws, while Arizona citizens became increasingly agitated. Rustlers, who became known as the cow-boys, began to kill each other as well as
innocent citizens. That October, tensions boiled over with Ike and Billy Clanton, Tom and Frank McLaury, and Billy Claiborne confronting the Tombstone marshal, Virgil Earp, and the suddenly deputized Wyatt and Morgan Earp and shotgun-toting Doc Holliday.

History for Kids: The Life of Wyatt Earp

Of all the colorful characters that inhabited the West during the 19th century, the most famous of them all is Wyatt Earp (1848-1929), who has long been regarded as the embodiment of the Wild West. Considered the toughest and deadliest gunman of his day.

Earp symbolized the swagger, the heroism, and even the lawlessness of the West, notorious for being a law enforcer, gambler, saloon keeper, and vigilante. The Western icon is best known for being a sheriff in Tombstone, but before that he had been arrested and jailed several times himself, in one case escaping from prison, and he was not above gambling and spending time in houses of ill-fame.

Wyatt Earp Dots Lines Swirls Coloring Book: Wyatt Earp Stress Relief An Adult Color Puzzle Activity Book Creativity & Relaxation

This book is designed for anyone who loves Wyatt Earp. Put all of your stress behind, have a nice seat, then find out what will amaze you inside this fascinating coloring book!

This coloring book is a perfect collection of stunning images and perfect artworks of Wyatt Earp film. Besides that, bleeding is no longer a big problem in this book because all pages are printed on high-quality papers.

With a balance of design and simple elements, these images will satisfy adults and experienced colorists without being overwhelming to a beginner.

Wyatt Earp: Wild West Lawman (Best of the West Biographies)

A biography of the lawman who helped to bring order to "The Wickedest Town in the West," Dodge City, Kansas.

How to Make a Kids DIY Gun Holster

You will need:

  • Felt or leather sheets
  • Scissors
  • Cardstock
  • Embroidery floss
  • Embroidery needle or regular needle
  • Child’s belt
  • Toy gun for template
7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Start by laying your child’s toy gun on a sheet of cardstock, tracing around it leaving about 1 12/” of space all the way around.

You want the handle portion to stick out above the holster.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Next, cut out the cardstock template.

Now fold over your felt and lay the template on top.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Trace and cut out both layers.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

On the back piece fold the felt over about 2” down from the top and cut two lines 1 1/2” or so apart. This is where they will thread the belt through.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

It is totally up to you if you want to mark or let your child mark every ½” around for the thread holes or if you want to just let them sew it as near as they can.

But since you will be going in and out of each side you will need to do it on both sides. We just laid a ruler alongside and made a tiny pin mark.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Thread a long piece of embroidery thread through the needle.

Even though it is a bit harder to push through the felt I recommend using the dull embroidery needle with young or first-time sewers.

Kids DIY Gun Holster

Otherwise, you can just pull out 1 or 2 threads from the floss and put on a regular needle.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Be sure that both sides are lined up perfectly, you can hold it in place with a few pins if you like.

We are going to use a whipstitch to sew all the way around.

Don’t worry about perfection, this is a great beginning handicraft for young children to learn how to hold a needle and sew.

While they are running around the yard playing Wyatt Earp, they won’t notice their imperfect stitches.

Stitch from one corner all the way around, rethreading as you need, knotting, and cutting off excess each time.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Slide the belt through the loops you made in the back to secure it and it’s ready for action.

This activity could also be done with older children using a thin piece of leather, a piercing tool, and leather cording following the same directions but “threading” the cording through the holes by hand.

7 Wyatt Earp and the Cowboys Facts And Kids Gun Holster Handicraft

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: cowboy, handicraft, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschoolhistory, Wyatt Earp

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

July 20, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have five tide pool facts and you’ll love these edible tide pool diorama ideas. Also, look at this free Seashore Watching Unit Study and Beach Lapbook.

Not every diorama has to be cardboard. You’ll love these edible tide pool diorama Ideas that make a tasty new way to learn.

We are creating our own sea creatures that are found in a tide pool with moldable candy, add some fish, and top it with beautiful ocean water.

People love to visit tide pools when the tide is low to observe the fish and other sea life that is contained within, and every tide pool is a unique micro-habitat that is filled with life.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

A tide pool is an isolated water pocket that is formed in the ocean’s intertidal zone.

It is made when seawater gets trapped in shallow depressions along the shore as the tide recedes.

This can be on rocky ledges, sandy beaches, and even mudflats.

5 Tide Pool Facts

  1. Tide pools can be anywhere from a few inches to several feet deep and are a living petri dish of sea life with- snails, sea stars, barnacles, mussels, anemones, urchins, crustaceans, seaweed, and small fish.
  2. As ocean water flows outside the tide pool during low tide, the creatures are exposed to long hours in the sun, low oxygen levels, and warmer water temps, not to mention hungry wading birds. The creatures that live in the tide pool must cling fiercely to the rocks.
  3. On the other hand, the waves at high tide bring in fresh nutrients and microscopic organisms, such as plankton making nourishment plentiful for them to keep the cycle going.
  4. The water in tide pools can change temperature significantly because the volume of water is small.
  5. Most marine organisms don’t have to deal with large temperature fluctuations; intertidal organisms do.

Also, look at these books about tide pools.

Tide Pool Resources

Books and resources about tide pools for kids. Add one or two of these books to your unit study.

Tide Pool Secrets

Lift the flaps and discover the many hidden creatures of the tide pool.At first glance, there’s nothing much to see . . . but tide pools are full of secrets. What creatures can be found nestling among the rocks and hiding in the seaweed? Dive into these mysterious seashore habitats and learn how to spot the creatures concealed within. With big, easy-to-lift flaps and a glossary of the tide pool’s inhabitants, Narelle Oliver’s lush underwater primer introduces young readers to the wonders just waiting to be revealed in the tide pools of the world.

Life In A Tide Pool

The series Life in a Tide Pool explores the fascinating world of tide pools. Tide pools occur in rocky locations where the ocean meets the land. This zone is covered by water and exposed to air periodically throughout the day. The series explores the types of marine life that live in this harsh environment and looks at how these animals can survive.

National Geographic Readers: Tide Pools (L1)

Bright starfish, spiky sea anenomes, sea cucumbers, mussels, and colorful fish! Peek into these vibrant shoreline pools and discover amazing ocean habitats teeming with life!

Packed with beautiful and engaging photos, this new leveled reader will teach kids how tide pools work, what kinds of animals live in them, and even how to prepare for a tide pool visit of their own.

With expert-vetted text, brilliant images, and a fun approach to reading, National Geographic Readers have proved to be a winning formula with kids, parents, and educators. Level 1 text is carefully leveled for an early independent reading or read aloud experience, perfect to encourage the scientists and explorers of tomorrow!

What's in the Tide Pool?

What would you see if you sat at the edge of a tidepool, looked into the water and watched the changes taking place in this little world? What life would you discover there? In a charming hand-sized book, Anne Hunter illustrates the creatures that live in and around a tidepool, and describes each animal's characteristics and habits. The gorgeous artwork and simple sense of wonder will inspire children to explore their environment. Fans of Hunter’s two books, WHAT'S IN THE POND? and WHAT'S UNDER THE LOG? will want to add this new title to their collection.

Life in a Tide Pool (Rookie Read-About Science)

Explains how tidal pools form and the types of plants and animals that inhabit them

At Home in the Tide Pool

AT HOME IN THE TIDE POOL looks at the creatures and plants found in the mysterious and wonderful world of the tide pool. Children will be fascinated by the amazing creatures and the slippery seaweed. Did you know that crabs can re-grow missing limbs? Or that starfish eat by pushing their stomachs out of their bodies through their mouths. AT HOME IN THE TIDE POOL will entertain and educate readers about life in the tide pool from low to high tide.

What Do You Find in a Tide Pool? (Ecosystems Close-Up)

Tide pools form from water left on rocky shores when the tide withdraws. From seaweed and sea snails to shore crabs and seabirds, readers will discover some of the plants and animals that live in and around these ever-changing ecosystems.

Moreover, look at some hands-on ideas.

Whether you’re looking to craft or read about tide pools, you’ll find an idea.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Tide Pool Diorama Ideas and Resources

  • Create a classic diorama like the FIAR Night of The Moon Jellies Tide Pool Diorama.
  • You could also make a Tide Pool Art Project for a different slant.
  • Here is a great simple backyard Tide Pool Science Experiment that your kids will love to explore if you don’t have your own nearby.
  • Watch The Secret Life of Tidepools for a peek into this unique habitat.
  • Free Oceans Unit Study and Lapbook.
  • Or check out Exploring Tide Pools for Kids.
  • I found this fantastic resource for Tidepool Math from the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management which has resources for grades k-12.
  • Save your voice, grab a coffee, and play this read loud In One Tidepool on Youtube.
  • Free Seashore Watching Unit Study and Beach Lapbook.
  • Be sure to grab some Ocean Animal toys for making dioramas or just fun dramatic play, this set has plenty of tide pool items like crabs, sea stars, seaweed, and more.
  • Look at this beautiful two-page spread I found in Ocean Anatomy, besides that there are individual pages on individual creatures and things you would find in a tide pool, what a great resource.
5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Finally, look how to make an edible tide pool diorama.

How to Make an Edible Tide Pool Diorama

Before you begin your activity, you will want to look up some tide pool creatures to help your child decide what to make in books or use Google as well.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

You will need:

  • Gummy fish
  • Airheads
  • Nerds
  • 3 oz box blue jello
  • Clear glass dish
  • Tan cardstock
  • Sanitized scissors
5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

First, trace the bottom of your clear glass dish using tan paper and cut it out, set aside.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Cut open the airheads.

I chose this candy because it molds very nicely, like clay, especially when warmed slightly by your hands.

Pinch, pull, cut, and twist airheads into shapes like barnacles, anemones, seaweed, etc.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

How cute is this little crab we made?

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Tape tan paper to the underside of the dish to look like the ocean floor.

Warm the dish in the microwave for 30 seconds. And you just want it the slightest bit warm (not hot!), gently press your sea creatures onto the dish.

The heat will help melt the airheads and make them grip the plate a bit so they are not displaced when you pour in the jello. Add your jellyfish at this time too.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Prepare jello according to package directions.

If you want a clearer view to the tide pool you may opt for yellow jello with the tiniest bit of blue food coloring,.

You will be able to see through the final product a little better.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Allow jello to cool completely but not start to gel up in the refrigerator.

Also, pouring cooled jello over your candy makes it dissolve and lose color a lot less than hot would.

Pour carefully into the dish to fill it.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

You can still see your creatures very well at this point.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Allow it to set for 3-4 hours or until “solid”.

Use sanitized tweezers, spoons, and a magnifying glass to move the water aside and find ocean life living in your tide pool.

5 Tide Pool Facts and Create An Edible Tide Pool Diorama Ideas

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, life science, ocean, science, tide pool

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

July 17, 2023 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have a Navajo Code Talkers worksheet for you to use while studying World War II. Also, grab my Free World War II Unit Study Ideas and Fun Lapbook.

And of course, I have some other great activities, ideas, and resources.

Wondering exactly what the Navajo Code Talkers were? During WWII the Marine Corps leaders chose 29 Navajo men, the Navajo Code Talkers, who created a code based on the complex, unwritten Navajo language.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

It was used to relay messages because the Japanese had broken every other code sent over the radio.

Navajo code was not able to be broken because the Navajo language has no definite rules and a guttural tone.

It was used to relay messages on Japanese troop movements and battlefield tactics, as well as other critical information.

How the Navajo Language Was Translated to Code

Code talkers first had to translate each Navajo word into its English equivalent. Then they used the first letter of the English equivalent. 

 Most letters had several Navajo words that represented them.

For instance, the Navajo word for “ant,” wo-la-chee was used for the letter “A”.

Some words did not have to be spelled out.

They assigned Navajo words to over 450 commonly used military terms such as Da-Ah-Hi-Dzi-Tsio for the word battle and Chay-Da-Gahi-Nail-Tsaidi for tank destroyer (which literally translated means, tortoise killer).

You can see why they were so important to the US military at the time.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Use my worksheet, you can get it at the bottom of the post to have your child learn more about these amazing men.

5 Navajo Code Talker Facts

  1. Aug. 14, 1982, was declared by our then-President Ronald Reagan as Navajo Code Talkers Day.
  2. The reason Navajo was first chosen was because of its complexity and because it wasn’t a written language.
  3. Because of its great success, the military started recruiting from Native nations all over the United States and they served in every single branch of the military. 
  4. The Navajo Code was the only military code, in modern history, that was never broken by an enemy.
  5. Three code talkers that were part of the U.S. Marine Corps. are still alive today. They are Peter MacDonald, John Kinsel Sr., and Thomas H. Begay.
Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Also, add some hands-on activities to your study.

Activities To Go With Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet

  • Free World War II Unit Study Ideas and Fun Lapbook
  • World War II Hands-On History – Make Ration Cakes
  • World War II Hands-On History – Make a Secret Message Deck
  • 8 World War II Historical Fiction Books for Middle School
  • World War II Free Resources For a Middle School Unit Study & Make Victory Garden Soup
  • World War II Homeschool History-Manhattan Project, Vocabulary & A. Frank
  • World War II Homeschool History: Life During the War & Pearl Harbor Minibook
  • World War II Homeschool History: Minibooks Causes & Great Depression

Also, look at sone of these books to add to your study about World War II and the Navajo Code Talkers.

15 Books and Resources for Studying About World War II

Add some of these books about World War II and the time in history when there has been no other war before or after that killed so many people.

Number the Stars: A Newbery Award Winner

Through the eyes of ten-year-old Annemarie, we watch as the Danish Resistance smuggles almost the entire Jewish population of Denmark, nearly seven thousand people, across the sea to Sweden. The heroism of an entire nation reminds us that there was pride and human decency in the world even during a time of terror and war.

Great World War II Projects: You Can Build Yourself

From spy maps and victory banners to spotter planes and ration cakes, Great World War II Projects You Can Build Yourself brings one of the most defining periods of American and world history to life through hands-on building projects and activities. Detailed step-by-step instructions for creating each project combine with historical facts and anecdotes, biographies, and trivia about the real-life models. Together they give kids a first-hand look at daily life at home and on the front lines during America's war years.

Snow Treasure

In the bleak winter of 1940, Nazi troops parachuted into Peter Lundstrom's tiny Norwegian village and held it captive. Nobody thought the Nazis could be defeated—until Uncle Victor told Peter how the children could fool the enemy. It was a dangerous plan. They had to slip past Nazi guards with nine million dollars in gold hidden on their sleds. It meant risking their country's treasure—and their lives. This classic story of how a group of children outwitted the Nazis and sent the treasure to America has captivated generations of readers.

The Tuskegee Airmen Story

A grandfather reminisces about his service as a Tuskegee Airman.

Voices of Pearl Harbor (Voices of History)

December 7, 1941-the day a sleeping giant awoke. Japan's surprise attack devastated the American Naval Fleet at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and forced the Americans into WWII. These moving accounts of the lives affected by the assault capture the scope of the day's emotions and repercussions. Viewpoints of both historical and imagined characters include the mother of a Japanese pilot, officials from both countries, and the grandchild of a WWII veteran.Powerful illustrations accompany every tale.

The Book Thief

It is 1939. Nazi Germany. The country is holding its breath. Death has never been busier, and will become busier still. Liesel Meminger is a foster girl living outside of Munich, who scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement. 

Who Was Anne Frank?

In her amazing diary, Anne Frank revealed the challenges and dreams common for any young girl. But Hitler brought her childhood to an end and forced her and her family into hiding. Who Was Anne Frank looks closely at Anne’s life before the secret annex, what life was like in hiding, and the legacy of her diary. Black-and-white illustrations including maps and diagrams provide historical and visual reference in an easy-to-read biography written in a way that is appropriate and accessible for younger readers.

The Chestry Oak

As he watches his homeland of Hungary being taken over and run by invaders from Nazi Germany, young Prince Michael of Chestry strives to retain his identity and integrity during one of the most dangerous seasons in human history.

Michael carries an acorn all the way from his castle home in Chestry Valley to the warm soil of
the Hudson Valley farm in the USA where he makes a new home after WWII.

Enemy Brothers

British airman Dym Ingleford is convinced that the young German prisoner, Max Eckermann, is his brother Anthony who was kidnapped years before. Raised in the Nazi ideology, Tony has by chance tumbled into British hands. Dym has brought him back, at least temporarily, to the family he neither remembers nor will acknowledge as his own. As Tony keeps attempting to escape, his stubborn anger is whittled away by the patient kindness he finds at the White Priory. Then, just as he is resigning himself to stay with this English family, a new chance suddenly opens for him to return home-to Germany!

Making Bombs for Hitler

Lida thought she was safe. Her neighbors wearing the yellow star were all taken away, but Lida is not Jewish. She will be fine, won't she?But she cannot escape the horrors of World War II.Lida's parents are ripped away from her and she is separated from her beloved sister, Larissa. The Nazis take Lida to a brutal work camp, where she and other Ukrainian children are forced into backbreaking labor. Starving and terrified, Lida bonds with her fellow prisoners, but none of them know if they'll live to see tomorrow

World War II for Kids: A History with 21 Activities

This book is packed with information that kids will find fascinating—excerpts from actual wartime letters written to and by American and German troops, personal anecdotes from people who lived
through the war in the United States, Germany, Britain, Russia, Hungary, and Japan, and gripping stories from Holocaust survivors—all adding a humanizing global perspective to the war.

Who Were the Navajo Code Talkers? (Who Was?)

Learn how this heroic group of American Indian men created a secret, unbreakable code and helped the US win major battles during World War II in this new addition to the #1 New York Times bestselling series.By the time the United States joined the Second World War in 1941, the fight against Nazi and Axis powers had already been under way for two years. In order to win the war and protect its soldiers, the US Marines recruited twenty-nine Navajo men to create a secret code that could be used to send military messages quickly and safely across battlefields. In this new book within the #1 New York Times bestelling series, author James Buckley Jr. explains how these brave and intelligent men developed their amazing code, recounts some of their riskiest missions, and discusses how the country treated them before, during, and after the war.

Tales of the Mighty Code Talkers

Written and illustrated by Native Americans from various tribal nations, these graphic novels detail the deep emotions of leaving one's homeland to fight in a war far away, the comfort and benefit in finding those who speak our native language, and the pride in knowing you served your country while honoring your people. A high percentage of Native Americans serve in the U.S. military and bring special talents that have aided their fighting units during wartime, including the famed code talkers of World War I.

World War II Inspiring Stories for Kids: A Collection of Unbelievable True Tales About Goodness, Friendship, Courage, and Rescue

Note: This book does not give any content about torture & distortion stories, kidnapping, burn, or any negative events that had a relationship with killing,

This book is a collection of stories based on real-life events during World War II. A selection of 10 inspiring stories, introduces us to unique characters with different characteristics.

Great Battles for Boys: WW2 Europe

Now you can, with these exciting tales of World War II written especially for reluctant readers.

In his highly acclaimed middle-school class “Great Battles for Boys," author Joe Giorello has ignited a love of military history in hundreds of boys. Now with this engaging non-fiction book written specifically for boys ages 8-14, your son can experience that same thrilling adventure in learning.

Finally, look at this fun hands-on activity to learn more about the Navajo Code Talkers.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and Dog Tags

We used this site to get the Navajo Code Talkers’ Dictionary and choose our words.

We then made 2 dog tags, one with the word in English, and the other with it in Navajo.

Your child can choose their word or words from the list and create one for everyone in the family.

You will need:

  • Blank Dog Tags
  • Metal Stamping Kit
  • Small Hammer
  • Enamel Stamping Marker or Sharpie
  • Masking or painter’s tape.
Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

First, you will want to practice first to determine how hard and how many times you need to hit to get a good depth to your stamping in the metal.

Tape your dog tag down to the metal bench block.

That is the piece that absorbs the impact with minimal noise and gives you a solid surface for making the impressions.

I had some tape that is designed for spacing letters on stamped jewelry.

You don’t have to use this.

Just make marks on your masking tape, or let your child have free reign with imperfections-perfectly imperfect.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Be sure that you have enough room on your tag for all your letters.

Then hold each stamp in place.

For the correct positioning my stamps had an engraved letter on one side that needed to be facing me.

Tap firmly 2 or 3 times on the stamp with the hammer.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Continue until your entire word is spelled out.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Cover the stamped word with the enamel marker or Sharpie and allow it to sit for about 1 minute.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Take a paper towel or soft cloth and buff off the excess, you don’t want to pull it out of the grooves, this is going to help your lettering stand out more.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Add your tags to the chain and it’s ready to wear.

Free Navajo Code Talkers Worksheet and How to Make Dog Tags Activity

Moreover, grab this Navajo Code Talker worksheet. It’s one page two different ways.

One page is blank for your student to research and the second page has a few facts if you simply want to add it to a lapbook or a notebook.

How to Get the Free Navajo Code Talker Notebooking Page

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

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

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

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