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Explore the World: Free Continent Printables to Color by Number

November 19, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today I have some fun free continent printables to color by number. Also, look at my page Hands-On Simple And Best Homeschool Geography Ideas & Tips for more fun hands-on geography.

When studying geography with your elementary kids I find that working from an overview of our planet and the continents makes it easy to understand.

Also, if my kids showed an interest in a particular continent over the other one, we would start a study on that one for our unit study.

Explore the World: Free Continent Printables to Color by Number

Besides, teaching the names of the 7 continents kids will understand that each one has it own culture, characteristics and unique history.

And besides getting an overview of the land, kids love to learn about the unique animals in a place and the food local people eat.

Picture books are great for any age. I don’t think kids outgrow loving them.

So I’ve rounded up some beautiful picture books if you want to focus on one continent.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY BOOKS FOR ELEMENTARY KIDS

Additionally, I prefer living books.

And while it’s true that older living geography books have outdated information, the way the author speaks about geography is still a hook for kids.

So while teaching using older living books explain what we know now and continue with the story.

Living geography books teach geography in a way that they bring to life the world through the eyes of a child and not with boring facts.

World Geography Books For Elementary Kids

Add one or two of these fun world geography books. Besides pictures books are a great way to learn about geography.

Image for Around the World with Picture Books Part II
Photo Credit: www.bfbooks.com

Around the World with Picture Books Part II

This brand-new follow up to Part I is designed to be an introductory course to world cultures and geography for the primary grade student through delightful children’s picture books. Along with award-winning literature, this course includes nature study, folktales, fables, music, art, poetry, and history. Gentle Socratic questions are designed to prompt discussion and discovery. Geographic elements include country maps and flags for students to cut out, paint or color, encouraging journaling of all the student is learning.

Each country visited features a selection of animals indigenous to those regions. 

Image for Draw the World: An Outline of Continents and Oceans

Draw the World: An Outline of Continents and Oceans

Geography is essential to a child’s education. And basic to that study is a simple outline of states, countries and continents. In Draw the World, I have tried to give students an easy introduction to committing the map of the world to memory. Through simple, step-by-step instructions, kids learn to draw each continent as it connects to its neighbors and, with a little practice, will be able to draw the world as a whole.Education seeks to broaden a children's minds, to entice them to explore.

Image for A Child's Geography of the World

A Child's Geography of the World

Profusely illustrated with maps and drawings. A Child's Geography of the World is a general course in geography for juveniles. Hillyer was headmaster at the famed Calvert School and wrote a series of books as part of the curriculum for his students. This title was the result of many years of teaching the subject to young children and of several more years in authoring it. The books is now considered in a classic in homeschooling.

Image for Hungry Planet: What the World Eats

Hungry Planet: What the World Eats

The age-old practice of sitting down to a family meal is undergoing unprecedented change as rising world affluence and trade, along with the spread of global food conglomerates, transform eating habits worldwide. HUNGRY PLANET profiles 30 families from around the world--including Bosnia, Chad, Egypt, Greenland, Japan, the United States, and France--and offers detailed descriptions of weekly food
purchases; photographs of the families at home, at market, and in their communities; and a portrait of each family surrounded by a week's worth of groceries. Featuring photo-essays on international street food, meat markets, fast food, and cookery, this captivating chronicle offers a riveting look at what the world really eats.

Image for Me on the Map

Me on the Map

     Where are you? Where is your room? Where is your home? Where is your town? This playful introduction to maps shows children how easy it is to find where they live and how they fit in to the larger world. Filled with fun and adorable new illustrations by Qin Leng, this repackage of Me on the Map will show readers how easy it is to find the places they know and love with help from a map.

Next, look at a few fun facts about each of the 7 continents to go with the free continent printables.

FACTS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE 7 CONTINENTS

1. AFRICA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

  • Africa is home the Big 5 animals. They are lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses. But it’s also home to giraffes and zebras.
  • The Congo is the second biggest rainforest after the Amazon. It is home to endangered mountain guerillas.
  • The Sahara Desert, located in Africa, is the largest hot desert in the world.
  • Egypt a country in Africa is one of the earliest civilizations.
  • Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. Look at my post How To Make A Mountain Volcano | Mighty Mount Kilimanjaro With Geronimo Stilton.
  • Each of the 54 countries have their own unique language and traditions.

Also, look at more activities about the continent of Africa.

  • Free Africa Unit Study for Kids Who Love Hands-on Learning | Free Continent & Country Reports.
  • Awesome Serengeti African Savanna Fun Facts | Free Color By Number
  • Simple and Fun Wildlife Craft Mountain Gorilla Layered Art Project
  • 8 The Water Princess STEM Activity Ideas and African Clay Pot Craft
  • 6 World Wildlife Day Activities to Learn About African Lions
  • Learn About African Art For Children And Make Fun Djembe Drums
  • How to Make a Kids’ Fun Ceremonial African Tribal Mask

2. ANTARCTICA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

  • Antarctica is the coldest continent. It is covered in ice and snow.
  • It is the least populated continent with no permanent residents. Only research teams stay there.
  • However, it is home to lots of penguins and seals.
  • With extreme cold temperatures it’s a frozen continent.
  • During summer, Antarctica experiences 24 hours of sunlight.
  • Mosses and lichens can survive in Antarctica but not trees or flowers.

And look at my post How to Make an Easy Antarctica Diorama With Your Kids.

3. ASIA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

  • Asia is the largest continent on Earth.
  • Asia is home to Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world.
  • The Great of Wall China is one of the most famous landmarks in the world is in China.
  • It has about 49 countries with each country having a diverse culture.
  • It is home to large deserts like the Gobi and Arabian Deserts.
  • Some of my favorite foods are found in Asia. For example, you can find sushi in Japan, curry in India, dim sum in China, and pho in Vietnam.
  • Asia has some of the world’s oldest civilizations. For example, Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley has history that dates back thousands of years.
  • Some of the amazing animals found there are the panda in China and the Bengal tiger in India.

Next, at these hands-on ideas about Asia.

  • 5 Asia Activities For Kids & Free Color by Number Camel
  • Quick and Easy Ancient Chinese Paper making for Kids
  • Marco Polo Unit Study and Lapbook
  • How to Make an Easy Bird Craft Fun Paper Plate Peacock

4. AUSTRALIA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

Also, look at these facts about Australia.

  • Australia is home to fun kangaroos, koalas and the cool platypus. The platypus is the only mammal that lays eggs.
  • Also, the Great Barrier Reef which is the largest coral reef system in the world is there. It has thousands of marine species.
  • Australia is the only country that is also a continent,
  • Australia is home to the Aboriginal peoples.
  • Ayers Rock is a massive sandstone monolith in the heart of the Northern Territory.
  • The Sydney Opera House is one of the most famous buildings in the world.

Look at my post Free 4-Week Kid’s Australia Unit Study Who Love Hands-on Learning.

5. EUROPE QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

In addition, Europe has a rich history and diverse culture.

  • The Eiffel Tower in France and the Colosseum in Italy are famous landmarks.
  • It has 44 countries each with unique traditions.
  • Some of the largest countries are Germany, France and Italy.
  • The ruins of the Colosseum in Rome and the Parthenon in Greece date back thousands of years.
  • If you want to do a study about castles, Europe has the Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany and Edinburgh Castle in Scotland.
  • Famous artists and musicians lived there like Leonardo Da Vinci, Mozart, and Beethoven.
  • Also, Vikings have a rich history in the Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden and Denmark.
  • Some of the languages spoken in Europe are English, French, German, and Spanish.
  • And more landmarks to learn about are Tower of London, the Acropolis in Athens, and the Berlin Wall in Germany.

Also, look at more hands-on ideas for learning about Europe to go with the free continent printables.

  • Make an Edible Eiffel Tower
  • Grab my free Vikings Lapbook Unit Study and Hands-on Activities
  • Make fun Cleopatra Collar.
  • Colosseum Craft
  • Craft a Fun England Tower Guard
  • Learn About Mozart The Eight Journey Through Time Geronimo Stilton Series
  • Fun Pharaohs and Queens Ancient Egypt Lapbook and Activities
  • 11 Easy Hands-On Ancient Egypt Projects for Middle School
  • Hands-on Ancient Egypt: Israelite Mud Bricks for Kids
  • Free Quick France Unit Study and Make Easy French Bread

6. NORTH AMERICA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

Additionally, look at some fun facts about the North America continent.

  • Three countries make up North America. They are Canada, United States and Mexico.
  • One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, Niagara Falls, is located on the border between the United States and Canada.
  • The Appalachian Mountains stretch over 2,000 miles from Canada to the southern United States.
  • North America is home to the Great Lakes, the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world.
  • Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, with a population exceeding 9 million.
  • There are many extensive national parks and protected areas. For example, Yosemite was the first national park in the world. But there are also the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Banff in Canada.
  • Mammoth Cave in Kentucky is the longest cave system in the world.
  • It is home to the ancient civilizations of the Maya and Aztec.

And look at some hands-on activities about the continent of North America.

  • Geronimo Stilton Field Trip to Niagara Falls
  • Rocky Mountains Oregon Trail Fun Large Diorama Craft for Kids
  • How to Create a Fun Yosemite National Park Camping Curriculum | DIY Firestarter
  • The Fascinating World of Sea Geography | Paddle to the Sea Craft
  • Mexico Unit Study and Make a Fun Easy Floral Headband
  • Meso-America Unit Study and Lapbook
  • Streams to the River, River to the Sea

7. SOUTH AMERICA QUICK FACTS FOR KIDS

Finally, look at a few quick facts about South America.

  • South America is famous for its lush rainforests.
  • The Andes Mountains are the longest mountain range and Amazon rainforest are in South America.
  • Machu Picchu is in Peru.
  • The Amazon River is the largest river in the world.
  • The continent is rich with wildlife. For example, there are sloths, toucans, jaguars, and llamas.
  • The famous Galapagos Islands are unique for the wildlife.
  • Pampas which are in Argentina are known for their rich soil and cattle ranching.
  • The Iguazu Falls is one of the most breathtaking waterfall systems in the world.
Explore the World: Free Continent Printables to Color by Number

Then look at some of these hands-on activities.

  • Free South America Printable Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study Ideas
  • South America Geography Salt Dough Map + Printable Pennants
  • South America Unit Study resources
  • How to Make a Felt Mountain Craft | 7 Andes Mountain Facts For Kids
  • Galapagos Islands Animals Fun and Simple Watercolor Flamingo Tutorial
  • How To Make A Blue-Footed Booby Bird Craft
  • Ikat Weaving and Makana Shawl in Gualaceo Ecuador

HOW TO GET THE FREE COLOR BY NUMBER CONTINENTS PRINTABLE

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

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 activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

November 18, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

This mini solar system activity is such a fun hand-on idea for multiple ages. Also, look at my Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages for more great ideas.

Especially if you have hands-on learners and minimal space in your home this is the perfect sized activity.

Besides this mini solar system sensory bottles activity is a fun and educational project that combines art, science, and sensory play.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Anyone fascinated by space will love how the bottles visually represent the planets, moon, stars and sun.

And besides learning facts about the planets, you can expand this hands-on activity.

For example, have your child put the planets in order from the sun.

Also, you can have your child put them in order from the smallest to biggest.

And sort the planets by which ones have fewer moons and which one has less moons.

BOOKS ABOUT ASTRONOMY FOR KIDS

Also, look at some of these books about space, the planets and our solar system.

11 Astronomy Resources & Books

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

Image for The Planets

The Planets

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

Image for The Planets

The Planets

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

Image for Who Was Neil Armstrong?

Who Was Neil Armstrong?

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

Image for Find the Constellations

Find the Constellations

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

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

Image for Where Is Our Solar System?

Where Is Our Solar System?

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

Image for Signs and Seasons Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

Signs and Seasons Understanding the Elements of Classical Astronomy

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

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

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

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

Image for Basher Science: Astronomy: Out of this World!

Basher Science: Astronomy: Out of this World!

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

Image for Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky, The

Stargazer's Guide to the Night Sky, The

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

Image for Solar System Puzzle Wooden Space Toys for Kids

Solar System Puzzle Wooden Space Toys for Kids

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

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

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

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

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

Next, look at a few other hands on solar system and space activities.

MORE SOLAR SYSTEM ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • How to Create A Stunning Night Sky Paper Roll Display
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science
  • Meteors, Meteorites, Comets and Meteoroids Today And Make a Fun Windsock
  • About Astronomy and Space Science Fun Quick Unit Study
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids
  • How To Make Puffy Paint Planets And Free Notebooking Pages
  • Geronimo Stilton Mouse into Space:How to Make an EASY Straw Rocket
  • Geronimo Stilton Theme Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Then, look at these quick facts about our solar system.

QUICK FACTS ABOUT OUR SOLAR SYSTEM FOR KIDS

Sun – The Sun is a large ball of hot, burning gases, mostly made up of hydrogen and helium. It is the center of our universe.

Mercury – Mercury is the hottest and coldest planet. It is the planet closest to the Sun but can’t trap heat. So during the day it’s super hot and at night it’s freezing cold. It’s also the smallest planet.

Venus – It is similar to earth in size and shape and sometimes called Earth’s twin. It has no moons and rotates backwards.

Earth – The only planet known to have life. It has the perfect balance of air, temperature, and water to sustain. It’s also called the Blue because a large amount of water covers the earth.

FACTS ABOUT THE 8 PLANETS

Mars – Mars is known as the Red Planet because its surface is covered in rusty red colored rocks. Also, Mars has the largest volcano in the solar system. It is the Olympus Mons which three times as high as

Jupiter – Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. It has many moons – at least 79. It does not have a solid surface like Earth but is gas giant.

Saturn – Saturn is the second largest planet and it is famous for its amazing rings. The rings are made of rock, dust and ice. It too is a gas giant and does not have a solid surface like Earth.

Uranus – Uranus is a giant ice and one cool fact is that it spins on its side unlike the other planets which spin upright.

Neptune – Neptune is the farthest planet from the sun and it is has the fastest winds in the Solar System. It has at least 14 moons.

Moon – Our moon is Earth’s only moon and it is the only natural satellite of Earth. It goes through phases from new to full moon as it orbits earth.

Galaxy – Galaxies can take many shapes. For example, there are spirals and elliptical. Our Solar System is part of the Milky Way Galaxy. And a galaxy is basically a group or cluster of stars, gas and matter that are held together by gravity.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Stars – A star is a giant ball of hot, glowing gases. Our Sun is a star and it is the center of our universe and they come in many different colors.

Finally, look at how to make these mini solar system activity sensory bottles.

MINI SOLAR SYSTEM ACTIVITY SENSORY BOTTLES

Here is a list of supplies:

  • (12) 80ml (2.7 oz / ⅓ C) plastic bottle with tight-fitting lids
  • Water
  • Clear school glue
  • Small funnel (optional)
  • Glitter *see list below (I know, I know, but it really makes a difference here.)
  • Alphabet stickers
How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Apply stickers to each bottle spelling out:

Sun, Moon, Galaxy, Stars, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Add water to each bottle, filling them about ¾ of the way.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Fill each bottle to the neck with clear glue, leaving room for the glitter.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Add glitter to each mini sensory bottle until all 12 colors are complete.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Close the top tightly.

Shake and enjoy.

How to Make Mini Solar System Activity Sensory Bottles

Also, look at this list of colors we went with for the glitter.

  • Sun: yellow
  • Moon: light and dark gray
  • Galaxy: black, purple, and gray
  • Stars: gray and star confetti
  • Mercury: silver
  • Venus: red and orange
  • Earth: blue and green
  • Mars: red
  • Jupiter: brown and gold
  • Saturn: yellow and gold
  • Uranus: light blue and silver
  • Neptune: dark blue and light blue

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

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

November 15, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

It is the perfect season for a peppermint science experiment. Be sure you grab more ideas for winter fun on my page Winter Season Unit Study.

Besides peppermints are plentiful in the stores and can be found in canes, discs, and even spoon shapes.

This dissolving candy cane experiment is a simple and fun way to demonstrate the process of dissolution.

Dissolution is the process by which a solid substance dissolves into a liquid.

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

Dissolution is an important process in nature and is responsible for a variety of phenomena, such as the formation of caves and the weathering of rocks.

In this experiment, you will observe how a candy cane dissolves in different liquids over time, record your hypothesis, variables, process, and results in your science notebook.

You can use any shape and size of peppermint candies that you like for your experiment.

But you will want to keep them uniform throughout so that your results are more accurate.

For today’s purpose we used a fun candy cane shape.

Too, I am not just going to show you a single activity and move on.

I have lots of fantastic peppermint science experiment ideas for you as well as some crafts, facts, and videos to make it a fun little unit for you and your child.

5 PEPPERMINT FACTS

  1. Peppermint is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint and the scientific name for it is Mentha × piperita.
  2. Peppermint grows to a height of 1-3 feet and is native to Europe and Asia but has become cultivated in many parts of the world including North America.
  3. In early history peppermint was mentioned throughout Greek mythology, by Roman philosophers, and Monks in the Middle Ages.
  4. Peppermint is used in a variety of products, including candy, gum, toothpaste, tea, and is also used in traditional and holistic medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as indigestion, nausea, and headaches.
  5. Handmade striped red and white candy canes were first introduced in 1900 while the first machine to make candy canes was invented in 1921 by Brasher O.

PEPPERMINT SCIENCE EXPERIMENT AND ACTIVITIES

  • Candy Canes: How it’s Made shows the process from the first ingredient to the packaging of candy canes.
  • Test out your child’s STEM skills with a Building Peppermint Candy Towers Challenge that encourages critical thinking and problem solving.
  • Prewriting skills are so important and preschoolers love sensory activities, a Peppermint Writing Tray is the perfect fun way to practice letters, numbers, and shapes.
  • Build up the fine motor skills in small growing hands by making and playing with a Peppermint Playdough Recipe to roll, pinch, press, and form.
  • Whether you have tried crystal growing activities or not the Crystal Candy Canes You Can Make
  • The Fizzing Candy Canes Experiment is not only a great science experiment but makes a fun seasonal decoration.
  • For older kids I think these Peppermint Shower Steamers would be a fun and useful hands on science exploration. They can be made to keep or gift to friends and family.
  • While you have candy canes or peppermints on hand make up a batch of Crock Pot Peppermint Hot Chocolate to enjoy, cooking is science!
Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

Too, look at more candy science.

MORE FUN CANDY SCIENCE

  • Hands-on History: Make Maple Snow Candy – Pioneer Activity
  • Two Fun Candy Cane Hands-on Science Winter Experiments
  • How to Spark Learning with a Candy Cane Maze STEM Activity
  • 5 Fun Candy Science Experiments and Unit Study & Homemade Lollipops
  • Fun Candy Corn Stem Activity Which Liquid Dissolves Candy Corn Faster
  • Fun Chocolate Unit Study and DIY Chocolate Candy Bar Activity

Finally, look at how to do this peppermint science experiment.

PEPPERMINT SCIENCE EXPERIMENT

The results of the experiment will show which liquid dissolves the candy cane completely the fastest. You can simplify the experiment by simply timing how long it takes for one candy cane to dissolve in water.

You will need:

  • Candy canes
  • Clear glasses
  • Water and at least 3 other liquids
  • Stopwatch or timer
  • Ruler
  • Science notebook
Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

First, have your child make a hypothesis on which liquid they think will melt the candy canes the fastest and record it in their science journal or on a sheet of paper for just this experiment.

Fill the glasses with water, and your other liquids.

Some ideas are milk, vinegar, hot water, cold water, room temperature water, rubbing alcohol, clear soda, oil, etc.

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

List each of your liquids in the science journal as well.

Measure the length of the candy cane, record it.

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

Place each of the  candy canes into different liquids. Make a label for each one so similar ones don’t get confused.

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

Start the stopwatch or timer.

Observe the candy canes as they dissolve. You will notice almost immediately the red begins to dissolve and your liquid turns pink.

The hot water especially creates changes so quickly.

Every minute or two, measure the length of the candy canes and record your observations.

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment

Continue observing the candy canes until they are completely dissolved. Don’t forget to record your findings.

As the candy canes dissolves, you will observe the following changes:

Explore The Science Of Candy: Easy Peppermint Science Experiment
  • The candy canes will become smaller in size.
  • The water will become colored.
  • The candy canes  will become softer and more pliable.
  • The candy canes will eventually disappear completely.

By varying the conditions of the experiment- using different brands of peppermint, different liquids, and various shapes you can learn more about the process of dissolution and the idea of variables in an experiment.

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

Inexpensive Preschool Winter Activities & Simple Winter Busy Book

November 14, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I have some inexpensive preschool winter activities and a simple winter busy book. Also, look at my page How to Homeschool Preschool for more ideas.

When teaching preschoolers about winter it’s important to incorporate hands-on activities.

Even add stories, music, and playing.

Inexpensive Preschool Winter Activities & Simple Winter Busy Book

Play learning is essential for preschoolers.

It allows them to use their imagination and creativity.

And if snow is available, play snowball toss game. Games that require steps nurtures focus and self-regulation.

Too, although I don’t like the word busy book, it does describe activities that enhance eye-hand coordination.

WINTER BOOKS FOR PRESCHOOL

Next, look at these fun books about winter.

W is for Winter Preschool Theme

Teach your child the sound of the Letter W and add in these fun books and resources about winter.

Image for Over and Under the Snow

Over and Under the Snow

Part of the acclaimed nature book series that includes Over and Under the Pond, Over and Under the Rainforest, and Up in the Garden and Down in the Dirt, this volume takes readers on a cross country ski trip through the winter woods to discover the secret world of animals living under the snow. Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow lies a secret world of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals making their winter home under the snow. This beloved nonfiction picture book reveals the tunnels and caves formed beneath the snow but over the ground, where many kinds of animals live through the winter, safe and warm, awake and busy, but hidden beneath the snow. 

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The Snowy Day

The magic and wonder of winter’s first snowfall is perfectly captured in Ezra Jack Keat’s Caldecott Medal - winning picture book. This celebrated classic has been shared by generations of readers and listeners, a must-have for every child’s bookshelf and a perfect gift for the holiday season.

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Sneezy the Snowman

B-R-R-R-R! AH-CHOO! Sneezy the Snowman is cold, cold, cold. To warm up, he drinks cocoa, sits in a hot tub, stands near a warm fire–and melts! But the children know just what to do to build him up again–and make him feel “just right”. Hilarity chills the air with playful mixed-media illustrations by Stephen Gilpin as Sneezy attempts to warm himself with some silly results.

Image for Animals in Winter (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science)

Animals in Winter (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science)

Have you ever seen a butterfly in the snow? Probably not. Butterflies can't survive cold weather, so when winter comes, many butterflies fly to warmer places. They migrate Woodchucks don't like cold weather either, but they don't migrate; they hibernate. Woodchucks sleep in their dens all winter long. How do these and other animals handle the cold and snow of winter?

Image for There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow!

There Was a Cold Lady Who Swallowed Some Snow!

The old lady is swallowing everything from snow to a pipe, some coal, a hat, and more! With rollicking, rhyming text and funny illustrations, this lively version will appeal to young readers with every turn of the page. And this time, there's a surprise at the end no reader will be able to guess!

Also, look at the benefits of busy books.

8 BENEFITS OF BUSY BOOKS

  1. It encourages independent play.
  2. Puzzles, sorting tasks, or cause-and-effect activities encourage children to think critically.
  3. Open-ended activities like drawing sections give preschoolers a chance to create.
  4. One of the best reasons to use them is that they lay the foundation for early literacy skills.
  5. For example, tracing letters and recognizing numbers keeps learning hands-on.
  6. By exploring emotions helps preschoolers develop sympathy.
  7. And busy books are great alternatives to digital tablets. Limit screen time with hands-on learning.
  8. Cutting and gluing strengthens fine motor skills.
Inexpensive Preschool Winter Activities & Simple Winter Busy Book

Additionally, look at these preschool winter activities.

PRESCHOOL WINTER ACTIVITIES

  • How to Make Hot Cocoa Cloud Dough | 8 Hot Cocoa Crafts for Preschoolers
  • Hot Cocoa Craft Preschool | How to Make a Cocoa Name Craft
  • Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert
  • Over And Under The Snow Activities For a Free Literature Unit Study
  • Cute and Simple Snowman Story Stones Winter Art Activities For Preschoolers
  • W Is For Winter | Snowman Oobleck Activity

Next, look at this simple winter busy book.

ABOUT THE WINTER BUSY BOOK

This is a 45 page .pdf download.

It covers the following skills.

  • Match the months
  • Spell winter
  • Sequence puzzles
  • Picture puzzle
  • Count and match
  • Match the pair
  • Match the letters
  • Sort by size
  • Trace the letters
  • Match opposites
  • Polar animals
  • Northern lights
  • Fun in the winter
  • In the winter I wear
  • Counting snowglobes
  • Matching emotions
  • Penguin shapes
  • Match halves
  • Match the pattern
  • Match by color
  • Match the shadows

It has 29 pages of activities and 15 pages of cut-out.

For example, print the 29 pages and place them in a small binder.

Then print the cut out pages.

Have your child cut and glue the cutout on the correct activity.

Inexpensive Preschool Winter Activities & Simple Winter Busy Book

By keeping the busy book in a binder, your child can return to it again to play and learn.

HOW TO GET THE WINTER BUSY BOOK

You can get it now!

Important: READ THIS FIRST.
Before you email me asking where your download link is or tell me that it is not working, read this to ensure that you get your pretties timely and that you don’t pay for something and not get it.

• All my products are digital. You will not receive a physical product for anything in my store. A digital physical year calendar does not mean a physical product or calendar.
• Downloads are INSTANT. When you pay, you will receive an email with a download link INSTANTLY. Depending on your internet connection, the email could be just 30 seconds or so, or a bit longer. The point is it will be soon, not a week later,etc.
• The email with the download link will go to the email you used for paypal. If you used your husband’s paypal, your downloads will go to that email. Please check that email and your spam before emailing me telling me you can’t find it.
• Please put my email tina @ tinasdynamichomeschoolplus dot com (of course substitute the right symbol for dot) in your address/contact list so that your product does not go to spam.

MY GUARANTEE: To treat you like I want to be treated which means I know at times technical problems may cause glitches, so I will do everything possible to make your experience here pleasant. Also, you can email me at my personal email tinahomeschools at gmail dot com.

  • Dynamic Simple Winter Busy Book For Kids Who Love Learning

    Dynamic Simple Winter Busy Book For Kids Who Love Learning

    $3.75
    Add to cart

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

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

November 13, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I like to find unusual homeschool history ideas to mix up everyday topics and studying the history of henna in India fits the bill.

Henna is a special plant that grows in hot, dry places like India.

Leaves are dried and turned into powder. Then the powder is mixed with water to create a paste.

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

This paste is used to create beautiful designs on the skin.

In India, henna is a big part of celebrations like weddings and festivals.

People decorate their hands and feet with intricate patterns, and it’s a fun way to express their creativity.

But it is more than just a decoration; it’s a symbol of joy, celebration, and cultural heritage in India.

It’s a beautiful way to connect with tradition and add a touch of color to special occasions.

Beyond henna, let’s dive into the Taj Mahal that is over 400 years old, some traditional Indian foods, crafts highlighting the amazing animals of the country, and more.

Of course I have plenty of facts, hands-on ideas,  books, and more to help you create a wonderful unit study.

BOOKS ABOUT OR SET IN INDIA FOR KIDS

Next, living books bring to life the period or area we’re studying about.

When I can find them, I list them. Then add reference books too.

12 Books About or Set in India for Kids

Grab some of these books about India for your unit study or learning day.

Image for T is for Taj Mahal: An India Alphabet (Discover the World)

T is for Taj Mahal: An India Alphabet (Discover the World)

From the quiet grandeur of the Himalaya Mountains to the urban city of Calcutta, T is for Taj Mahal: An India Alphabet showcases India's exotic treasures. Visit the haunting Taj Mahal, a tribute from an emperor to his dead wife. Traverse the bustling streets of Mumbai, the second most populated city in the world. Sample a traditional meal fragrant with garam masala spices, or attend a cricket match where some games have lasted up to five days! Varsha Bajaj was born in Mumbai, India. Her book, How Many Kisses Do You Want Tonight?, was named to the 2005 Texas Library Association 2X2 Reading List. Varsha lives in Houston, Texas. Robert Crawford's paintings have appeared on the cover of major magazines such as The Atlantic and U.S. News and World Report, as well as books. He also illustrated Sleeping Bear Press's The Legend of the Old Man of the Mountain. Robert lives in Woodbury, Connecticut.

Image for The Lost Kingdom

The Lost Kingdom

Thirteen-year-old Rodmika is well acquainted with the crystal-clear rivers and tangled vines of the Green Jungle. So when his family moves to the other side of the jungle, leaving behind his chance for an education, Rodmika is perfectly suited to find a way to return. As Rodmika searches for a way back to the place of his schooling, he uncovers much more than a path.Set against the backdrop of a lush, untamed Indian rainforest, The Lost Kingdom weaves adventure and mystery into a thrilling tale that will resonate with readers who have a love for exploration and excitement.

Image for Seasons of Splendour: Tales, Myths and Legends of India

Seasons of Splendour: Tales, Myths and Legends of India

A vibrant collection of Indian myths and legends illustrated in beautiful watercolors and told by one of India's sparkling personalities, Madhur Jaffrey.Seasons of Splendour is a richly illustrated treasury of stories about Indian gods and goddesses, kings and queens, princes and demons. Here are engaging and beautifully told tales of Krishna, Ram, and Sita, along with stories based on the Hindu epics the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as others of ancient origin with no known source. When Madhur Jaffrey was a young girl growing up in her grandfather’s house in Delhi, storytelling was an integral part of life. After dinner, she would huddle with her cousins and siblings around a seated aunt, grandmother, or mother and listen.

Image for Burying the Moon

Burying the Moon

In Latika’s village in rural India, there are no toilets. No toilets mean that the women have to wait until night to do their business in a field. There are scorpions and snakes in the field, and germs that make people sick. For the girls in the village, no toilets mean leaving school when they reach puberty.

No one in the village wants to talk about this shameful problem. But Latika has had enough. When a government representative visits their village, she sees her chance to make one of her dreams come true: the construction of public toilets, which would be safer for everybody in her village. 

Image for Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (Illustrated)

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (Illustrated)

Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is the tale of a courageous young mongoose who saves a boy and his family from the evil snakes lurking in the garden.

Image for Aru Shah Series Books 1 - 5 Collection by Roshani Chokshi

Aru Shah Series Books 1 - 5 Collection by Roshani Chokshi

Twelve-year-old Aru Shah has a tendency to stretch the truth in order to fit in at school. Whilst her classmates are jetting off to exotic locales, she'll be at home, in the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture where her mother works. Is it any wonder that Aru makes up stories about being royalty.

Image for Malgudi Days

Malgudi Days

Introducing this collection of stories, R. K. Narayan describes how in India "the writer has only to look out of the window to pick up a character and thereby a story." Composed of powerful, magical portraits of all kinds of people, and comprising stories written over almost forty years, Malgudi Days presents Narayan's imaginary city in full color, revealing the essence of India and of human experience.

Image for Tiger Boy

Tiger Boy

"One of the new tiger cubs has escaped from the reserve!"When a tiger cub escapes from a nature reserve near Neel's island village, the rangers and villagers hurry to find her before the cub's anxious mother follows suit and endangers them all. Mr. Gupta, a rich newcomer to the island, is also searching--he wants to sell the cub's body parts on the black market. Neel and his sister, Rupa, resolve to find the cub first and bring her back to the reserve where she belongs.The hunt for the cub interrupts Neel's preparations for an exam to win a prestigious scholarship at a boarding school far from home. Neel doesn't mind--he dreads the exam and would rather stay on his beloved island in the Sunderbans of West Bengal with his family and friends.

Image for Boys without Names

Boys without Names

For eleven-year-old Gopal and his family, life in their rural Indian village is over: We stay, we starve, his baba has warned. They flee to the big city of Mumbai in hopes of finding work and a brighter future. Gopal is eager to help support his struggling family, so when a stranger approaches him with the promise of a factory job, he jumps at the offer.

?But there is no factory, just a stuffy sweatshop where he and five other boys are forced to work for no money and little food. The boys are forbidden to talk or even to call one another by their real names. Locked away in a rundown building, Gopal despairs of ever seeing his family again.

Image for Homeless Bird: A National Book Award Winner

Homeless Bird: A National Book Award Winner

Like many girls her age in India, thirteen-year-old Koly faces her arranged marriage with hope and courage. But Koly's story takes a terrible turn when in the wake of the ceremony, she discovers she's been horribly misled—her life has been sold for a dowry. Can she forge her own future, even in the face of time-worn tradition? 

Perfect for schools and classrooms, this universally acclaimed, bestselling, and award-winning novel by master of historical fiction Gloria Whelan is a gripping tale of hope that will transport readers of all ages.

Image for India on a Plate!: Indian Food from A to Z

India on a Plate!: Indian Food from A to Z

Kids love learning about food, they need to learn their ABC's, and this mouth-watering alphabet book covers both in the most delicious way! From spicy achaar to sweet zafrani pulao, flip through food from every corner of India, for all kinds of occasions.

Image for Where Is the Taj Mahal?

Where Is the Taj Mahal?

The Taj Mahal may look like a palace, but it's actually a tomb and a lasting testament to one of the world's great love stories. In 1612, Mogul emperor Shah Jahan married Mumtaz Mahal. It had been love at first sight and for nineteen years they were so inseparable that Mumtaz even accompanied Shah Jahan to battlefields. When she died suddenly giving birth to their fourteenth child, the emperor set about building a magnificent memorial to his wife. Everything about the Taj was perfectly planned, from the white marble walls that shimmer in the sunlight and sparkle by moonlight, to the countless decorative flowers made from precious gems that still astound visitors today.

Next, learn about henna.

  1. Henna is derived from the henna plant Lawsonia inermis. It is a natural dye that has been used in India and other parts of the world for centuries. The henna plant is a small shrub native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australasia. The plant cultivated for its leaves, which are dried and ground into a fine powder.
  2. Henna is traditionally applied to the hands and feet of brides and grooms during Indian wedding ceremonies. It is believed to bring good luck, prosperity, and happiness to the couple. The intricate designs created with henna are often passed down through generations and hold deep cultural significance.
  3. Paste is applied to the skin using a cone and left on for several hours. Once the paste is dry, it is then peeled off leaving behind the beautiful orange or brown design on the skin.
  4. Henna is also used in India for its cooling properties and stress-relieving effects. Henna paste is believed to have a calming effect on the body and mind, and it is often applied to the forehead during meditation or relaxation practices.
  5. Henna is a versatile plant with various uses beyond body art. The leaves of the henna plant have medicinal properties. They are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as skin conditions and headaches.
Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

In addition, look at more homeschool history ideas.

INDIA HOMESCHOOL HISTORY IDEAS

  • Find India on a map or globe, then locate the capital, New Delhi.
Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India
  • Art Around the World: India (Taj Mahal Bleeding Tissue Paper Art)
  • Create beautiful Paper Plate Dandiya Dolls that display the clothing used in the traditional Indian folk dance.
  • Watch India: The Harappans – Ancient World History for Kids! To learn more about the people of the Indus Valley and more.
  • Take a trip to a local Indian restaurant and try a unique dish or two like centuries old Khichuri, a dish made of rice, moong lentils, ghee (clarified butter), cumin seeds, ginger and asafoetida.
  • Celebrate the National Bird of India with this fun and simple How to Make an Easy Bird Craft Fun Paper Plate Peacock.

ASIA ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • 5 Asia Activities For Kids & Free Color by Number Camel
  • Quick and Easy Ancient Chinese Paper making for Kids
  • Free Ancient China Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-on History
  • Marco Polo Unit Study and Lapbook
  • Medieval Japan Unit Study and Lapbook
Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

Finally, look at how to make this fun Indian handprint henna craft.

INDIA HANDPRINT HENNA CRAFT

This is really a fun hands-on activity for the whole family and is a great way to build fine motor skills and spend some time in a calming activity as you create intricate designs on the hand.

You will need:

  • Cardstock/construction paper
  • Brown fine line pens/markers
  • A willing hand
  • Scissors
Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

Trace the entire hand and include the wrist and some of the arm with a pencil, give yourself as much canvas to work on as possible.

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

Cut out around the outline of the hand carefully.

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

Use fine line pens or markers to create designs.

Take your time creating intricate designs on the hand, wrist, and fingers. Look to Google for some beautiful design inspiration.

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

The more small and detailed design you create the more amazing the final outcome will be.

Unique Homeschool History Ideas With Handprint Henna For India

If you want to test out henna designs on your actual hand you can grab a tattoo kit.

Look at this Body Mark Temporary Tattoo Markers for Skin, Henna Vibes, Flexible Brush Tip, 3-Count to try out your own designs on the skin.

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

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