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Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

August 5, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Teaching American history living books brings the past to life in a way that dry textbooks never can.

Also, you’ll love my free Native American Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning.

Rather than memorizing dates and facts, children encounter real people, gripping stories, and moral dilemmas.

By grounding your American history studies in living books, your homeschool will foster curiosity, empathy, and a lasting love of history.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Whether you choose to go in chronological order or follow your child’s interests, these titles can anchor your year in story-rich exploration.

Below I’m guiding you through the major periods of American history with recommended living books for each.

Many of these books are perfect for reading aloud or independent reading in upper elementary through high school.

Then I’m sharing a mini woven basket craft that you can make with just a few supplies as a nod to the Penobscot Indians. They were in the region where The Sign of The Beaver was set in Maine

5 PENOBSCOT INDIANS FACTS

  1. Penobscot comes from Panawahpskek, which means “the place where the rocks open out.” This was the name of an important Penobscot village.
  2. Historically, Penobscot men were the ones that hunted and waged war, while women farmed, cooked, and cared for children. Both genders took part in storytelling, art, music, and traditional medicine. While chiefs were traditionally male,  in modern tribes, women can now also be chief.
  3. The Penobscot people sustained themselves by fishing in the Penobscot River, hunting deer and moose, cultivating corn and beans, gathering berries, and producing maple syrup from tree sap.
  4. The Penobscot were part of the Wabanaki Confederacy, which was formed to protect against attack by the Iroquois, and also included the Algonquian peoples the Abenaki, Maliseet, Mi’kmaq, and Passamaquoddy.
  5. They lived in cone-shaped huts, and teepees which they moved to different locations during the different seasons.
Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

A favorite resource of mine for gathering wonderful living books is Beautiful Feet Books, from gorgeous picture books to riveting chapter books.

AMERICAN HISTORY LIVING BOOKS

Pre-Colonial and Native American Cultures (before 1492)

  • The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
  • Children of the Longhouse by Joseph Bruchac
  • If You Lived With the Iroquois by Ellen Levine
  • Pocahontas by Ingri D’ulaire

Age of Exploration and Colonization (1492–1763)

  • Pocahontas and the Strangers by Clyde Robert Bulla
  • Blood on the River: James Town 1607 by Elisa Carbone
  • The Courage of Sarah Noble by Alice Dalgliesh
  • The Sign of The Beaver by Elizabeth George Speare

American Revolution (1763–1789)

  • Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • George Washington’s World by Genevieve Foster
  • Phoebe the Spy by Judith Griffin

The Early Republic and Westward Expansion (1789–1850)

  • Carry On, Mr. Bowditch by Jean Lee Latham
  • Bound for Oregon by Jean Van Leeuwen
  • Daniel Boone: The Opening of the Wilderness by John Mason Brown

Civil War Era (1850–1877)

  • Across Five Aprils by Irene Hunt
  • Freedom Train: The Story of Harriet Tubman by Dorothy Sterling
  • Pink and Say by Patricia Polacco

Reconstruction and the Gilded Age (1877–1900)

  • Dragon’s Gate by Laurence Yep
  • Locomotive by Brian Floca

Progressive Era and World War I (1900–1920)

  • The War to End All Wars: World War I by Russell Freedman
  • Lyddie by Katherine Paterson
  • The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane by Russell Freedman

The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression (1920–1939)

  • Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
  • Bright April by Marguerite de Angeli
  • Sweet Home Alaska

World War II (1939–1945)

  • The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom
  • Number the Stars by Lois Lowry  
  • Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan

Post-War America and the Cold War (1945–1980s)

  • The Watsons Go to Birmingham
  • Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges
  • Red Scarf Girl by Ji-li Jiang

Modern America (1990s–Present)

  • Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
  • We Are the Ship by Kadir Nelson
  • March by John Lewis

In addition to beautiful American history living books, hands-on activities turn a simple book into a study whether it’s a mini unit or you decide to dig deeper.

MORE AMERICAN HISTORY RESOURCES

  • Explore The Best American History Gifts For Kids And Educators
  • How to Create a Creditworthy American History Course (& resources)
  • How to Make American History Silhouette Puzzles With Kids
  • Free American History Lapbook The Old West Through the Life of Wyatt Earp
  • American History Game Fun U.S. President Go Fish Unit Study
  • 18 American History Board Games Which Brings History to Life
  • How to Teach With an Easy DIY American History Timeline
  • 4 Shortcuts to Teach Hands-on American History in Half the Time

One thing the Penobscot Indians were known for was their basket weaving.

The baskets were functional but they also used different colored materials like barks and glasses that created beautiful patterns.

PAPER BAG BASKET WEAVING

Of course, I thought a simple basket weaving craft would be perfect to go along with this book and not only make a cute craft but work on fine motor skills at the same time.

You will need:

  • 3 brown paper bags
  • Scissors
  • Glue stick
Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Cut the top half the bag off, fold it over in half and press a firm crease all the way around.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Continue folding and creasing until the width is roughly 1”.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Cut one of the loops.

Glue between each layer, this gives you a sturdy handle for the basket, set aside for now.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Open up the second bag and cut 1” strips from the top to just the bottom edge of the bag.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Lay the bottom of the bag flat and spread out the strips.

Glue the handle inside the bag.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

The final step before weaving is to take the third bag and cut 1” strips from it, you will want at least 8.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

When opened they are one big loop, cut on just one end to make a long strip.

Begin weaving your basket by going over and under each of the cut strips of the main bag, raising the sides as you go, secure with glue at the start and end.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Start your next strip in a different corner each time to make it sturdier.

Repeat these 3 to 4 times around the basket.

Cut the strips so they are 1” above where you stop, fold each one over whatever side it ends on and glue it in place to finish the edge of the basket.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

Allow it to dry.

Beautiful American History Living Books & Sign Of The Beaver Craft

While your basket won’t hold too much weight you can put a few light things in it like flowers or leaves.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities, History Resources Tagged With: book lists, books, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, homeschool, livingbooks

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

August 3, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Twirl into an easy ballet study and fascinating Swan Lake facts by Tchaikovsky.

It is a fun and cultured study which can be adapted for preschool through high school.

Ballet is a graceful and expressive art form that tells stories through movement, music, and emotion.

It’s a beautiful subject to explore in your homeschool, whether your child is already dancing or just learning to appreciate the arts.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Furthermore, one of the most famous ballets in the world is Swan Lake, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Today we will explore some ballet basics, explore the magic of Swan Lake, and provide ideas for hands-on, artistic activities to bring it all to life, like your very own lace-up ballet slipper card craft.

Ballet, classical music, and storytelling come together in a magical way through Swan Lake.

Whether your child dreams of dancing or simply enjoys watching the story unfold, this unit can bring beauty and inspiration to your days.

BOOKS ABOUT BALLET AND TCHAIKOVSKY

Also, you can add your lace-up ballet slipper card to your homeschool portfolio as a reminder of this graceful journey into music and movement.

Next, look at a few books that you’ll love to add to this study.

5 Books About Ballet and Tchaikovsky

Add these fun books to your reading list.

Image for Swan Lake (Classic Stories)

Swan Lake (Classic Stories)

To escape a boring ball, Prince Siegfried escapes to an enchanted forest where he discovers a lake full of swans. When one of the swans turns into a princess, Siegfried falls in love! Can he declare his love for Odette in time to break the evil spell she is under?

Young readers don’t need to grow up to enjoy the story of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, Swan Lake. Crafted for young audiences by Peter Clover and Teresa Martinez, this elegant adaptation brings the romantic princess story to life. Beautiful illustrations throughout and foil on the cover make this a book to cherish for a lifetime.

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Image for Emma and Julia Love Ballet

Emma and Julia Love Ballet

Emma is little. Julia is big.They both love ballet.Emma takes ballet lessons. So does Julia.Emma is learning to be a ballerina. Julia is a professional ballerina.They are both excited about the big performance in the theater tonight.Emma will be watching from the audience. Julia will be dancing onstage!And afterward, Emma will go backstage to meet her ballet hero!Barbara McClintock's richly illustrated, heartwarming story is sure to become a perennial favorite.

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Image for Swan Lake

Swan Lake

This lavishly illustrated book follows the storyline, choreography, costumes, and sets of the New York City Ballet’s production of Swan Lake. With beautiful art illustrated by Valeria Docampo, this magnificent retelling is a perfect gift for an aspiring ballerina or any family who wants to add this enchanting and classic tale to their library.

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Image for Tchaikovsky Discovers America

Tchaikovsky Discovers America

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Image for Peter Tchaikovsky (Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers)

Peter Tchaikovsky (Getting to Know the World's Greatest Composers)

Presents a biography of the nineteenth-century Russian composer who created such ballets as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker

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Next, look at some facts about what is a ballet.

WHAT IS BALLET

In addition, ballet is a classical dance form. It began in the Italian Renaissance courts of the 15th century. Then ballet refined in France and Russia. It combines music, choreography, costumes, and storytelling to create an experience that often feels like a dream brought to life on stage.

Key elements of ballet include:

  • Graceful, flowing movement – Even the most challenging steps are meant to look effortless.
  • Posture and poise – Ballet dancers stand tall and use their whole body to express emotion.
  • Turnout – Dancers rotate their legs from the hips outward.
  • Positions of the feet and arms – There are five classic positions that form the foundation of ballet (they are called first position through fifth position).

WHO WAS TCHAIKOVSKY

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840–1893) was a Russian composer known for his deep emotion. He had soaring melodies and an incredible skill at blending music with storytelling.

He wrote music for some of the most beloved ballets of all time, including-Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty.

Tchaikovsky didn’t just write music for dancers to move to, he brought characters and emotions to life through every note.

His first ballet was Swan Lake, and though it wasn’t a hit during his lifetime, it is now one of the most performed and cherished ballets in the world.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

SWAN LAKE

Swan Lake is a fairy tale ballet. It tells the story of Prince Siegfried and Odette. Odette, a beautiful princess has been turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse.

By day, Odette is a swan, by night, she becomes human again. The curse can only be broken if someone who has never loved before swears eternal love to her.

At a royal ball, Siegfried is tricked into pledging his love to Odile. Odile is the sorcerer’s daughter and looks just like Odette, but wears black. Odette flees and is heartbroken.

The ballet ends tragically, as the two lovers leap into the lake. They are united in death and freed from the curse.

5 Fascinating Swan Lake Facts

  1. Swan Lake was first performed in 1877 in Moscow but it wasn’t very successful at first.
  2. The version most people recognize today was choreographed in 1895 by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, after Tchaikovsky’s death.
  3. The role of Odette/Odile is often danced by the same ballerina, which is one of the most challenging roles in ballet.
  4. The famous “Dance of the Little Swans” (Pas de Quatre) features four dancers in perfect synchronization and is a favorite for audiences.
  5. Swan Lake is filled with emotional highs and lows. It mirrors sorrow, hope, and beauty of the story.

SWAN LAKE CRAFTS AND RESOURCES

  • Learn 7 Fun Facts About Swan | How to Create a Handprint Swan for a swan lake inspired craft.
  • Choose a family-friendly recording of Swan Lake on YouTube or a streaming service like the Swan Lake – Full Length Ballet by American Ballet Theatre and point out the swan costumes, listen for Tchaikovsky’s themes, and discuss the story afterward.
  • Teach your child a few ballet terms and practice them in the living room.
  • Plié – to bend the knees
  • Relevé – to rise on tiptoes
  • Arabesque – to stand on one leg with the other extended behind
  • Draw Odette in her swan form or Prince Siegfried with a feathered crown. What do the characters feel? What do they wish for?
  • Ask your student to narrate the story of Swan Lake in their own words. And copy a quote like-“Ballet is the music made visible.” – George Balanchine
  • Read a short biography of Tchaikovsky or listen to more of his music. Let your child draw or paint what the music makes them feel. Try pieces like the Waltz of the Flowers from The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty Waltz, or Swan Lake’s “Finale”.
  • How sweet is the Flower Petal Ballerina Craft for your budding dancer.

Additionally, learn about the swan itself for a neat science lesson, try my How To Make A Fun Animal Soap Carving & A Quick Study on A Swan.

SWAN LAKE LACE-UP BALLET SLIPPER CARD

This sweet craft ties in perfectly with the theme of elegance and movement. You can use it as a fine motor activity, an art project, or simply a keepsake.

You will need:

  • Pink or purple stiff felt
  • Scissors
  • Hole punch
  • Ribbon or yarn
Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

First, cut a ballet slipper shape from stiff craft felt, you could also use craft foam or cardstock.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Next, cut a smaller oval from a different color to make the opening of the shoe.

Cover the black in tacky craft glue and press onto the ballet slipper.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Then punch holes along the edge where the ribbons would lace up (like a shoe).

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Also, add two near the top.

Help them lace the ribbon through the holes like real ballet slippers.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Run the ribbon up the back to the top holes.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Tie a bow at the top to tie the ballet shoes together.

Easy Ballet Study and Fascinating Swan Lake Facts by Tchaikovsky

Finally, allow the glue to dry.

 

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: ballet, crafts, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, swan

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

August 2, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have some fun apple crafts to add to your apple study. Also, you’ll love some facts on my page Apple Lapbook and Apple Unit Study.

And you’ll making this fun apple butter and pretzel chocolate covered truffles with your children. It’s such a fun treat to add to your apple study.

Plus fun apple crafts help young children understand seasonal changes.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

And apples can be made with paper, paint, felt, or just use real apple. There’s lots of room for imagination.

It’s easy to fold into other school subjects. Look below at my posts for activities for other subjects like math, geography, and history.

Today, you can some fun easy cooking or a delicious snack idea to end your day of learning.

BOOKS ABOUT APPLES FOR KIDS

First, look at these apple books.

8 Fun Learning About Apples Books and Resources

You will of course need a few great books that not only teach but that your kids will enjoy, a fun game or two, and maybe a few other items to make a fun apple unit.

Image for Apples (New & Updated Edition)

Apples (New & Updated Edition)

Discover the well-loved tradition of growing and picking apples - a fruit that has been in existence for about two million years. Explore the history of the apple but also the way that families and farmers grow and care for apple trees today, from planting to selling, to turning them into delicious treats and using them for classic games like "bobbing for apples" .

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Image for How Do Apples Grow?

How Do Apples Grow?

This is a clear and appealing environmental science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom.

Questions addressed in this book include:

  • Did you know that when you bite into an apple, you're eating part of a flower?
  • Why do apple trees need bees to make apples?
  • How does the tree feed the growing apples and make them ready to eat?

Read and find out in the proven winner How Do Apples Grow!

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Image for My Little Golden Book About Johnny Appleseed

My Little Golden Book About Johnny Appleseed

In this simple yet lively book, preschoolers will be introduced to John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed. Lyrical text and bright, appealing artwork capture the essence of this important American and early conservationist who traveled the country planting apple trees. Little ones will enjoy engaging anecdotes about Johnny Appleseed, beginning with the young John, who liked to walk barefoot in the cool, quiet woods.

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Image for Ten Apples Up On Top!

Ten Apples Up On Top!

Don't let the apples drop! Three animal friends practice balancing apples on their heads in this hilarious introduction to counting, illustrated by Roy Mckie. The sturdy board book teaches all about numbers, with a dose of signature Seuss charm. Kids will learn to count to ten--and want to start all over again!

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Image for SmartGames Apple Twist Travel Puzzle Game with 60 Challenges

SmartGames Apple Twist Travel Puzzle Game with 60 Challenges

  • An "apple" game board with five twisting levels to create different puzzles!
  • Includes 60 challenges and is great for on the go fun.
  • Helps develop Spatial Insight, Problem Solving, Planning and Logic Skills
  • All SmartGames are made with the highest quality materials to ensure long product life
  • Set Includes twisting apple game board, 3 caterpillar puzzle pieces and challenge booklet
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Image for How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World (Dragonfly Books)

How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World (Dragonfly Books)

Bake a delicious apple pie--and take a trip with this culinary global adventure!An apple pie is easy to make...if the market is open. But if the market is closed, the world becomes your grocery store. This picture book takes readers around the globe to gather ingredients for a delicious apple pie. First hop a steamboat to Italy for the finest semolina wheat. Then hitch a ride to England and hijack a cow for the freshest possible milk. And, oh yes! Don't forget to go apple picking in Vermont! A simple recipe for apple pie is included.

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Image for LeapFrog Tad's Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set

LeapFrog Tad's Fridge Phonics Magnetic Letter Set

Choose a level and push the letter tiles into the letter slot to reinforce letter names, phonics and word skills
Magnetic back makes it great for fridge play in the kitchen
26 magnetic letter tiles stick to the fridge and help kids learn the shape of each letter
Three photo tiles can be customized with your own photos for a unique, personalized play experience.

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Image for Food Anatomy: The Curious Parts & Pieces of Our Edible World

Food Anatomy: The Curious Parts & Pieces of Our Edible World

Get your recommended daily allowance of facts and fun with Food Anatomy, the third book in Julia Rothman’s best-selling Anatomy series. She starts with an illustrated history of food and ends with a global tour of street eats. Along the way, Rothman serves up a hilarious primer on short-order egg lingo and a mouthwatering menu of how people around the planet serve fried potatoes — and what we dip them in. Award-winning food journalist Rachel Wharton lends her expertise to this light-hearted exploration of everything food that bursts with little-known facts and delightful drawings. Everyday diners and seasoned foodies alike are sure to eat it up. 

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Next, look at these apple craft ideas for multiple ages.

It’s a great way to teach your children together while learning about weather changes.

FUN APPLE CRAFTS

  • Alphabet Letter A is for Apple Craft for Preschool | Fun Apple Study
  • 10 Fall Apple Crafts and Make a Caramel Apple Craft on a Stick
  • 8 Facts About Johnny Appleseed and Sweet Johnny Appleseed Cookies
  • Apple Themed Back to School Crafts & Fun Calming Apple Jar Craft
  • Free Homeschool Volcano Unit Study and Fun Apple Volcano
  • Fun Apple Lapbook and Hands-on Unit Study for Multiple Ages
  • Apples Unit How to Make a Fall Kids Garland Apple Craft
  • Dried Apple Crafts: Hands-on Fun Shrunken Head Apple Craft for Kids
  • Kids Fun Hands-on Apple Unit Make Dried Apple Slices
Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Finally, look at how to make this fun apple butter and pretzel truffles recipe.

APPLE BUTTER AND PRETZEL TRUFFLES RECIPE

You will need:

Equipment:

  • Piping Bags
  • Microwave safe bowls
  • Spoons
  • Semi Sphere Mold

And a list of ingredients:

  • 9 Ounces Red Melting Chocolate
  • 2 Ounces Green Melting Chocolate
  • Apple Butter
  • Pretzels Sticks
  • Pretzels Bows
Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Clean and dry the mold, then set it aside for later.

Melt the red chocolate melts in the microwave, in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second increments until its liquid and smooth. Stirring in between each time.

Using a spoon pour the melted chocolate into the semi spheres of the mold.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Next use the back of the spoon to the spread the chocolate around, going up to the top edges of each semi spheres.

Place the mold in the freezer for 8 minutes.

Take the mold out of the freezer and add more chocolate to each sphere following the same steps as before.

Be sure to get enough chocolate on the side to make them stronger. Put the mold back in the freezer for 6 minutes.

Crush the pretzel bows into small pieces.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Using clean hands or a knife, break the pretzel sticks to less than a half inch tall, and place them to them side for later. 

FUN APPLE BUTTER PRETZEL TRUFFLES

Lay the mold with the hardened chocolate on a flat surface and spoon in the apple butter into each sphere.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Fill each section a third of the way.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Next add the small pretzel bow pieces on top of the apple butter.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Add enough pieces to cover the entire area inside the spheres.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Next if need reheat the red melting chocolate, then pour some over each open section to close up the semi spheres. Be sure to spread the chocolate over all the edges so the spheres are completely closed and nothing will leak out.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Place the mold back in the freezer for 8-10 minutes.

Take the mold out of the freezer, place it on a flat surface sphere side up, and gently push the truffles out of the mold.

Fun Apple Crafts And How To Make Apple Butter & Pretzel Truffles

Melt the green chocolate melts following the same instructions as above, put the green chocolate in a piping bag, and cut a small hole at the tip of the piping bag.

Pipe a leaf on top of the truffle, to pipe the leaf make tear drop shape. Putting the thicker side at the top of the truffle and thin it out as you go down the side til you make a point.

Quickly add the mini pretzel stick on top of the leaf while it’s still wet. If the stick doesn’t stay, pipe a little bit of green chocolate around it to hold it up. Let the chocolate dry.

Serve and Enjoy!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: apples, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

August 1, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

When making this easy rainstick South America craft for kids you can include many subjects. That is what makes crafts so special when you include them in your unit studies. Also, look at my page South America Unit Study Resources for more ideas about South America.

Also, look at my Styles of Music Unit Study. A rainstick is a musical instrument.

It is a long, hollow tube filled with tiny things like beans, rice, or pebbles.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

This simple, sensory-rich project isn’t just fun but also touches on multiple subjects, from science and geography to music and cultural studies.

Rain sticks are believed to have originated in South America, often made by indigenous peoples to call rain.

For example, it has been found north on the coasts of Chile, perhaps having been used by the Incas.

It was also believed to have been started by the indigenous people, Mapuche who were in Chili and part of Argentina. They often used dried cactus tubes and filled them with seeds or pebbles.

BOOKS ABOUT SOUTH AMERICA FOR KIDS

Also, look at these fun books to include facts about South America.

13 Resources for a Study of South America

Add some of these fun books and resources to your study of South America.

Image for South America (Rookie Read-About Geography: Continents)

South America (Rookie Read-About Geography: Continents)

An incredible variety of climates and biomes span the territory of South America. As a result, the continent contains some of the greatest biodiversity on Earth.

Rookie Read-About: Continents series gives the youngest reader (Ages 3-6) an introduction to the components that make each continent distinctive and exceptional. Readers will get to know each continents' geography, history, and wildlife. In this book readers learn about the continent of South America, including the geography, native animals, people and more.

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Image for Ancient Civilizations: Aztecs, Maya, Incas!: With 25 Social Studies Projects for Kids (Explore Your World)

Ancient Civilizations: Aztecs, Maya, Incas!: With 25 Social Studies Projects for Kids (Explore Your World)

A full-color, compelling book for ages 7 to 10 offers a deep dive into the three sophisticated ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica―the Aztecs, Maya, and Incas― through hands-on STEAM projects, essential questions, and loads of fascinating facts!

Why were there more than 3,000 steps built at Machu Picchu? Why did the Aztecs roam Mexico for nearly 200 years before finding a place to settle? How did the Maya study the movements of the stars and the planets? Ancient Civilizations: Aztecs, Maya, Incas! With 25 Social Studies Projects for Kids takes kids ages 7 to 10 on a guided tour to experience the history, culture, economics, and daily life of the Aztecs, Maya, and Incas.

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Image for Biblioburro: A True Story from Colombia

Biblioburro: A True Story from Colombia

A man, his burros, and his books bring joy to children in remote Colombian villages in this inspiring book based on a true story by celebrated picture book creator Jeanette Winter.Luis loves to read, but soon his house in Colombia is so full of books there’s barely room for the family. What to do? Then he comes up with the perfect solution—a traveling library! He buys two donkeys—Alfa and Beto—and travels with them throughout the land, bringing books and reading to the children in faraway villages.

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Image for Secret of the Andes (Puffin Newberry Library)

Secret of the Andes (Puffin Newberry Library)

An Incan boy who tends llamas in a hidden valley in Peru learns the traditions and secrets of his ancestors. 

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Image for My Mama's Little Ranch on the Pampas

My Mama's Little Ranch on the Pampas

In the sequel to On the Pampas, the author recalls her first year on the small Argentinian ranch purchased and managed by her mother, in an account that includes a visual dictionary of the Spanish words and geographical terms used in the text.

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Image for Tales from Silver Lands

Tales from Silver Lands

Atmospheric woodcuts illustrate this Newbery Award–winning collection of 19 South American folktales. Charles J. Finger heard the tales firsthand from native storytellers, whose fables of talking animals, witches, giants, and ordinary people in supernatural settings provide remarkable insights into regional values and culture. The first of the stories, "A Tale of Three Tails," tells of an age when the rat had a tail like a horse, the rabbit had a tail like a cat, and the deer's tail was plumed like the tail of a dog. "The Magic Dog" recounts an act of kindness to a stray animal that helps overcome a witch's curse. In "The Calabash Man," the creatures of the jungle assist a suitor in winning his bride, and in "El Enano," a greedy troll's insatiable appetite leads to his downfall. Packed with adventure and full of surprises, these and other stories emphasize the importance of hard work, courage, and loyalty.

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Image for Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time

Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time

In 1911, Hiram Bingham III climbed into the Andes Mountains of Peru and “discovered” Machu Picchu. While history has recast Bingham as a villain who stole both priceless artifacts and credit for finding the great archeological site, Mark Adams set out to retrace the explorer’s perilous path in search of the truth—except he’d written about adventure far more than he’d actually lived it. In fact, he’d never even slept in a tent.

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Journey to the River Sea

With the memorable characters and plot twists she brings to her best-selling fantasies, acclaimed author Eva Ibbotson has written a hair-raising novel, set in turn-of-the-last-century Brazil.Accompanied by Miss Minton, a fierce-looking, no-nonsense governess, Maia, a young orphan, sets off for the wilderness of the Amazon, expecting curtains of orchids, brightly colored macaws, and a loving family. But what she finds is an evil-tempered aunt and uncle and their spoiled daughters. It is only when she is swept up in a mystery involving a young Indian boy, a homesick child actor, and a missing inheritance that Maia lands in the middle of the Amazon adventure she's dreamed of. Readers of every generation will treasure Ibbotson's lush historical adventure that harkens back to the beloved classics of Frances Hodgson Burnett and Louisa May Alco

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This Place Is Wet

Can you imagine living in a place where there is so much water some houses need to be built on stilts to protect them when the river rises? Or where it is so wet that some plants can grow on the sides of trees with their roots gathering water from the air? In This Place Is Wet, you'll find out all sorts of things about what it's like to live in the rain forest of Brazil. Try to imagine living there!

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Bolivar: American Liberator

It is astonishing that Simón Bolívar, the great Liberator of South America, is not better known in the United States. He freed six countries from Spanish rule, traveled more than 75,000 miles on horseback to do so, and became the greatest figure in Latin American history. His life is epic, heroic, straight out of Hollywood: he fought battle after battle in punishing terrain, forged uncertain coalitions of competing forces and races, lost his beautiful wife soon after they married and never remarried (although he did have a succession of mistresses, including one who held up the revolution and another who saved his life), and he died relatively young, uncertain whether his
achievements would endure.

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Image for Ada's Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay

Ada's Violin: The Story of the Recycled Orchestra of Paraguay

Ada Ríos grew up in Cateura, a small town in Paraguay built on a landfill. She dreamed of playing the violin, but with little money for anything but the bare essentials, it was never an option...until a music teacher named Favio Chávez arrived. He wanted to give the children of Cateura something special, so he made them instruments out of materials found in the trash

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Image for Mayans Aztecs Incas Coloring Book: Coloring Pages of Ancient Mexico Civilizations for Adults and Teens

Mayans Aztecs Incas Coloring Book: Coloring Pages of Ancient Mexico Civilizations for Adults and Teens

Mayans Aztecs Incas Coloring Book – Fun And Education For Adults and TeensMake the perfect gift for anyone who loves coloring! Enjoy this Mayans Aztecs Incas Coloring Book for Adults and Teens. Click the cover to reveal what’s inside!About this book:

  • 40 original pages drawings of Symbols, Warriors, Masks and Mandalas.
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Image for The Inca Empire (A True Book: Ancient Civilizations) (A True Book (Relaunch))

The Inca Empire (A True Book: Ancient Civilizations) (A True Book (Relaunch))

Explore the Inca empire, including how the Incas survived in the mountains, how the empire was built, and why it disappeared.

A True Book: Ancient Civilizations series allows readers to experience what makes each ancient civilization distinctive and exceptional as well look at its influence on the some of the practices of the modern world. This series includes an age appropriate (grades 3-5) introduction to curriculum-relevant subjects and a robust resource section that encourages independent study.

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Next, look at more hands-on activities for kids about South America.

KIDS CRAFTS ABOUT SOUTH AMERICA

  • 9 Free South America Country Reports for Kids Notebooking Pages
  • Free South America Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • Appreciating the Culture of South America Through Dance
  • Negrinho From Brazil–South America Unit Study
  • South America Geography Salt Dough Map + Printable Pennants
  • Humboldt Who? Hands On to Understand Ocean Currents & Their Effect On The Galapagos Islands
  • How To Make A Blue-Footed Booby Bird Craft
  • Fun Chocolate Unit Study and DIY Chocolate Candy Bar Activity
  • How to Make Paper Mache Mountains to Celebrate Chimborazo Day
Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Then look at a few more facts about rainsticks.

FUN FACTS ABOUT RAINSTICKS

  • Use it in rhythm lessons or explore how it compares to other percussion instruments.
  • You can make a rainstick from lots of things. For instance, a long cardboard tube (like from paper towels or mailing tubes), toothpicks or nails, tape or glue, or dry rice, beans, pasta, or sand.
  • The longer the rainstick, the longer the rain sound lasts.
  • And the more things you put inside (like beans or rice), the louder it can be.

Finally, look at how to make this fun DIY rainstick.

HOW TO MAKE A DIY RAINSTICK

First, look at this easy list of supplies.

  • 2 toilet paper rolls (or 1 paper towel roll)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Uncooked rice
  • Construction paper
  • Markers or crayons
  • Scissors
  • Tape
  • Glue
Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Form the tube. If using toilet paper rolls, tape two together end-to-end to form one long tube.

Make sure the seam is secure and the edges are even.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Make aluminum foil balls.

Tear off a piece of foil and crumple it into a loose ball, barely small enough to roll freely inside the tube. Repeat to make 2–3 balls.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Prepare the end caps. Cut two circles out of construction paper, slightly larger than the ends of your tube.

On each circle, cut two small rectangle flaps sticking out like tabs (this will help prevent rice from leaking through the tape).

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Place one circle over one end of the tube and tape it down tightly using the tabs to secure it.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Fill the tube. Drop the aluminum foil balls into the tube. Pour in a small handful of rice.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

You need just enough to create a gentle sound when turned. Don’t overfill.

You want space for the rice to move slowly around the foil balls.

Seal the other end. Repeat step 3 to close the other side of the tube securely with your second paper cap.

Easy And Fun Rainstick South America Craft For Kids

Decorate the outside. Cut a piece of construction paper to fit around the tube.

Let kids decorate it with markers, crayons, or stickers. Wrap it around the tube and glue it in place.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, music, south america

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

July 30, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

A LEGO map of the Mesopotamian civilization is a fantastic use of creativity for a kid who loves building but maybe not so much history. Also, look at my page Ancient Mesopotamia Fun Facts For Kids Who Love History for more hands-on history ideas.

too, look at my Ancient Civilizations page and my page From Simple to Spectacular: Easy LEGO Ideas for Everyone for more LEGO ideas.

Combining hands-on play with history lessons is one of the best ways to make learning come alive in your homeschool. This project works well for a wide range of ages.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Younger kids will love simply building rivers and stacking bricks into temples.

Older kids can research major cities, recreate specific buildings (like ziggurats), or add historical labels and write-ups to go with their map.

It’s a great addition to any ancient history curriculum, or even as a stand-alone unit study.

Instead of just reading about it, your kids can build the region.

And bring it to life, and better understand the geography, culture, and innovations of the people who lived there thousands of years ago. They will probably remember building LEGO maps with you for years to come.

ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, look at a few books I’ve rounded up for your study of Ancient Mesopotamia.

7 Books to Read About Ancient Mesopotamia

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

Image for Gilgamesh the King (The Gilgamesh Trilogy)

Gilgamesh the King (The Gilgamesh Trilogy)

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

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Image for The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

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

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Image for Science in Ancient Mesopotamia

Science in Ancient Mesopotamia

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

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Image for Ancient Mesopotamia: The Sumerians, Babylonians, And Assyrians

Ancient Mesopotamia: The Sumerians, Babylonians, And Assyrians

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

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

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

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

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Image for Mesopotamia (A True Book)

Mesopotamia (A True Book)

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

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Image for You Wouldn't Want to Be a Sumerian Slave!

You Wouldn't Want to Be a Sumerian Slave!

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

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Now let’s jump right into this ancient history lesson. Mesopotamia, meaning “land between the rivers,” was located between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in what is now modern-day Iraq and parts of Syria and Turkey.

It’s where humans first formed cities, developed written language, built temples, and created legal codes.

HISTORY OF ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA

Mesopotamia wasn’t just “the place between rivers”, it was a place of innovation, culture, and power that shaped the course of human history.

Let’s explore what made this region so important and what life might have looked like thousands of years ago.

Water was important to civilization here. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers flooded each year, depositing rich silt that made the land incredibly fertile. This allowed people to grow barley, wheat, dates, onions, and more.

But too much water, or not enough, could ruin everything. That’s why Mesopotamians invented irrigation systems with canals, ditches, and levees to control water flow.

These early engineering feats turned dry land into farmland and allowed cities to flourish.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Instead of one big country, Mesopotamia was made up of city-states—independent cities with their own rulers and gods. Each city-state had a ziggurat (a step-like temple), its own military, and farmland.

Some of the most famous Mesopotamian city-states include:

  • Ur – An important Sumerian city
  • Uruk – Known for the legendary King Gilgamesh
  • Lagash and Eridu – Among the earliest settlements

As cities grew, so did the need for leadership and order. Kings were seen as representatives of the gods and were responsible for keeping the gods happy through temple building and offerings.

One of the most famous rulers was Hammurabi, who created a written legal code known as Hammurabi’s Code. It included over 200 laws, many starting with, “If a man…”

LEARNING MADE EASY: ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIA UNIT STUDY OUTLINE

Additionally, grab my unit study outline to guide you in your study.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization
  • Learning Made Easy: Ancient Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline

    Learning Made Easy: Ancient Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline

    $2.75
    Add to cart

My Mesopotamia Unit Study Outline is a handy tool to help you teach or for child led learning.

There are many advantages to a unit study outline instead of a fully fleshed out study.

For example, look at the topics covered in this outline.

  • Introduction
  • Geography and Environment
  • Ancient Mesopotamian Civilizations
  • Agriculture and Irrigation
  • Writing and Communication
  • Religion and Beliefs
  • Science and Technology
  • Trade and Commerce
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Exploration and Legacy
  • Culminating Activity

Next, look at these other activities.

ANCIENT MESOPOTAMIAN ACTIVITIES

  • Ancient Mesopotamian Ziggurat Activity
  • How to Make Unleavened Bread Ancient Mesopotamia Bread Recipe
  • Some fabulous Ancient Mesopotamia STEM Ideas!
  • The creativity in this Hands-on Ancient Babylon: Hanging Gardens Fun Activity will appeal to kids who love to make things with their own hands.
  • Here are some fun and free Ancient Mesopotamian Cards you can use in many ways beyond learning facts like using it as a memory game.
  • Find out more about Ancient Mesopotamia (Hands-on History): and Cook Sebetu Rolls.
  • Create this Hands-on Ancient Mesopotamia: Easy STEM Irrigation Activity
  • Hands-on Geography Mesopotamia: Fun Salt Dough Map

HOW TO MAKE A LEGO MAP OF THE MESOPOTAMIAN CIVILIZATION

You will need:

  • LEGO baseplate -green or tan
  • Assorted LEGO bricks (greens, blues, browns, tans, grays)
  • A printed or digital map of Ancient Mesopotamia for reference
How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Start with a green baseplate for the fertile areas.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Then, use blue bricks or pieces to create the Nile River, Tigris, and Euphrates, the Persian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea.

Use flat pieces if you have them and leave space for placing deserts, farmland,etc…

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Use beige bricks to show the surrounding deserts. This highlights how the Fertile Crescent stood out from the dry land around it.

Layer dark brown bricks in a small mountain form to represent the Zagros Mountains.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Add in farmland with brown tiles and LEGO greenery.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Build ziggurats by stacking tan pieces, the Mesopotamia version of a pyramid.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

Finally, use sticky notes or cardstock to create handwritten labels for the rivers, cities, and modern-day countries.

How To Make A LEGO Map Of The Mesopotamian Civilization

You can also include:

  • Boats on the rivers
  • Minifigures or plastic ancient Egypt figures
  • Farms and irrigation canals
  • Brick pyramids or ziggurats
  • Animals like sheep and goats

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

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