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life science

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

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

Let’s creep and crawl our way into a fun insect unit study that will have your child buzzing and flapping around while they learn about bees, beetles, dragonflies and more. Also, look for more unit studies on my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies.

I am a strong believer in more hands-on fun activities for younger children rather than sitting down for hours with worksheets.

To help you create a fun and busy insect unit study I have some ideas for each subject that you might want to cover.

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Of course, I also have my own idea for creating bug specimens to put on display with some air dry clay and little wood pieces that you can find at Dollar Tree.

These make a perfect decoration for your homeschool shelves, desk, or even the coffee table.

As you put them together you can talk about what makes it an insect and ask questions like is a spider an insect? (no they are not).

This is a great time to pore over colorful books, take nature walks and explore bugs in their natural habitat, and even play with little plastic ones in a variety of ways.

More Insect Unit Study Activities

  • Fascinating Insect Incredible Slime: A Kids’ Guide To Nature’s Goo
  • How to Make a Fun Ladybug Watercolor Labeled Picture
  • Fun and Easy Hands-on Life Cycle Butterfly Activity for Kids
  • Fun And Easy Spider Craft: Insect Lessons For Elementary Students
  • Bugs Facts For Kids And Free Paper Bug Bracelets
  • Bioluminescence For Kids: How To Make A Fun Firefly Craft
  • 4 Cicada Insect Fun Facts For Kids | How to Make A Cicada Clothespin Craft
  • 8 Insect Fun Facts About Texas For Kids | Easy Dragonfly Craft
  • Blue Morpho Butterfly Adaptations In The Tropical Rainforest and Fun Symmetry Craft
  • Free Butterfly Lapbook For Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • Free Ladybug Lapbook for Kids Who Love Hands-On Learning
  • The World Of Slimy Insects: Snails Versus Slugs Unique Comparison

First you want to go over what makes an insect an insect.

All insects have the following characteristics:

  • Invertebrates (no backbone)
  • 2 compound eyes, usually on either side of the head
  • 3 body parts- a head, a thorax, an abdomen
  • 6 legs
  • A pair of antennae
  • 0 or 2 pairs of wings

Insect Books for Kids

Next, add some of these books to your unit study.

Since you have readers at different levels, I try to get a variety of reading levels.

11 Insect & Bug Books for Kids Who Love to Be Read To and Read

Add one or two of these books to your home library about insects. I love living books but love to add reference books to our day when I find them.

Image for When Insects are Babies

When Insects are Babies

Describes briefly the short infancy of such common insects as the grasshopper, praying mantis, cicada, earwig, and twelve others.

Image for We Like Bugs

We Like Bugs

This illustrated book for children asks the Have you ever seen a doodlebug? A dragon fly? A leafhopper? Find out all about bugs in this book.

Image for Fabre's Book of Insects

Fabre's Book of Insects

Hailed by Darwin as "The Homer of Insects," famed French entomologist Jean Henri Fabre (1823–1915) devoted hours of rapt attention to insects while they hunted, built nests, and fed their families. Working in Provence, in barren, sun-scorched fields inhabited by countless wasps and bees, he observed their intricate and fascinating world, recounting their activities in simple, beautifully written essays.This volume, based on translations of Fabre's Souvenirs Entomologiques, blends folklore and mythology with factual explanation. Fabre's absorbing account of the scarab beetle's existence, for example, begins with the ancient Egyptians' symbolic view of this busy creature, eventually leading to a careful discussion of its characteristic method of rolling a carefully sculpted ball of food to its den. Elsewhere, he discusses with infectious enthusiasm the physiologic secrets behind the luminosity of fireflies, the musical talents of the locust, the comfortable home of the field cricket, and the cannibalism of the pious-looking praying mantis, among other topics.These charmingly related stories of insect life are a rare combination of scientific study and literary classic that will delight entomologists, naturalists, and nature lovers alike.

Image for Children of Summer: Henri Fabre's Insects

Children of Summer: Henri Fabre's Insects

Henri Fabre (1823-1915) was a famous explorer yet he seldom left his own backyard. He spent his whole life discovering the secrets of the insect world. His home and its surroundings served as his laboratory, and his lab assistants were his wife and children. The entire family shared his passion for insects, especially his youngest son, Paul. Follow Paul as he assists his famous father uncover the secrets of his "children of summer"-insects. You'll meet the undertaker beetle that buries dead animals; the acorn elephant beetle, whose snout is so long that it must hold it straight out to keep from tripping over it; caterpillars that spin tents and roadways of silk; red ants that kidnap black ant babies and raise them as slaves; dancing scorpions; dung beetles that get their nourishment from animal droppings; male peacock moths that pay homage to their princess but don't eat a single meal as adults; and many other unusual creatures. On the way, you'll get to know a fascinating scientist widely regarded as the father of modern entomology. Through texts drawn from the beautiful written records that Fabre kept of everything he did and saw, and exquisite illustrations done in close, scientific detail, this enchanting book reaches far beyond the boundaries of its subject to engage even those who didn't know they were interested in bugs.

Image for Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders

Creep and Flutter: The Secret World of Insects and Spiders

Acclaimed naturalist and illustrator Jim Arnosky brings out the beauty—and the “wow!” and the “yuck!” factors—of hundreds of insects and spiders. Eight spectacular gatefolds show moths and mosquitoes, butterflies and beetles, spiders and silverfish life-size, up close, and personal!

Image for Insects Do the Strangest Things (Step-Up Books)

Insects Do the Strangest Things (Step-Up Books)

Describes insects that have peculiar and strange characteristics, such as the camouflage of the walking stick, and the driver ants that prefer people to picnics.

Image for Insect Life

Insect Life

Be immersed in the fascinating world of insects as you're taken on a journey observing and learning about the world around you.

This volume teaches about what makes an insect, the parts of a caterpillar, moths, butterflies, beetles, wasps, bees, flies, crickets, grasshoppers and more!

Image for The Big Book of Bugs (The Big Book Series)

The Big Book of Bugs (The Big Book Series)

From moths and beetles to worms and spiders, the world is crawling with fascinating bugs. The Big Book of Bugs is the first fact-filled book for children to explore the vast array of creepy-crawlies that share our Earth.

In the first pages, children learn that bugs live nearly everywhere on the planet and gain tips on how to become a young bug spotter. As the book continues, the scenic compositions on each page are dedicated to key groups of bugs, including beetles, moths, butterflies, bees, snails, crickets, grasshoppers, worms, and spiders. Some spreads approach the world of bugs thematically, such as bugs that come out at night, baby bugs, and life cycles, how bugs hide and show off, and how some bugs love to live in your home. The conversational, funny text is also full of facts that will astonish children and adults, and accompanied by Yuval Zommer’s colorful illustrations. Illustrated in color throughout.

Image for Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies: Take-Along Guide (Take Along Guides)

Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies: Take-Along Guide (Take Along Guides)

An introduction to the world of insects, caterpillars, and butterflies including identification information, educational activities, and fun facts.Invites young naturalists to spot wildlife. Safety tips are provided and interesting activities are suggested.

Image for The Beetle (Dimensional Nature Portfolio Series)

The Beetle (Dimensional Nature Portfolio Series)

Features the beetle in huge, three-dimensional form. The book consists of an enormous center pop-up and two seven-page books, one bound into each cover, which are full of additional pop-ups, anatomical cutaways and photographs taken through electron microscopes.

Image for The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science

The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science

In this beautiful nonfiction biography, a Robert F. Sibert Medal winner, the Newbery Honor–winning author Joyce Sidman introduces readers to one of the first female entomologists and a woman who flouted convention in the pursuit of knowledge and her passion for insects.

One of the first naturalists to observe live insects directly, Maria Sibylla Merian was also one of the first to document the metamorphosis of the butterfly. 

Richly illustrated throughout with full-color original paintings by Merian herself, The Grew Who Drew Butterflies will enthrall young scientists.

Bugs, of all kinds, were considered to be “born of mud” and to be “beasts of the devil.” Why would anyone, let alone a girl, want to study and observe them? The Girl Who Drew Butterflies answers this question.

Next, look at some of these easy ideas to incorporate into your unit study.

Kids Insect Unit Study

Math Insect Ideas

  • Use plastic bugs as counters for preschoolers to practice basic math skills like counting and very simple addition and subtraction.
Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects
  • One of the first math skills a child can learn is basic sorting, this is also doubles as a fantastic science lesson as you cover what makes a bug a bug -Bug or Not: Simple Sorting Tray.
  • Practice early math skills by making a Caterpillar number match for your child to play with.

Language Arts Insect Ideas

  • Games like the Swat the Bug Alphabet Game get children moving and help the simple lessons they learn really stick and make an impression.
  • Pull out all your plastic insects and have your child practice the beginning letter sound and naming the letter.
  • For a sweet read aloud, reach for Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar to  strengthen your child’s listening, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

Science Insect Ideas

  • Create this Fun and Easy Hands-on Life Cycle Butterfly Activity for Kids to simply demonstrate a simple life cycle with an artistic twist.
  • Be sure to give some attention to the buzzing bee with 7 Honey Bee Activities And Explore a BeeHive With Felt Activity.
  • A great resource for science is the Big Book of Bugs, a fun and beautifully illustrated oversized book that your children will love to read with you or flip through on their own to look at all there is to see.
Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Watch Find Out About Insects from Nat Geo on YouTube.

Geography Insect Ideas

  • Research one insect that is native to each of the continents. Here is one for each continent to get you started.
  • Antarctica- Antarctic Midge
  • North America – Cicada
  • South America – Rhinoceros Beetle
  • Africa – Devil’s Flower Mantis
  • Asia – Orchid Mantis
  • Europe – European Firebug
  • Australia- Giant Centipede
  • Learn about Entomologists- A scientist who studies insects. Learning about careers and community workers is an important part of social studies for young learners.
Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Art Insect Ideas

  • Learn 8 Insect Fun Facts About Texas For Kids | Easy Dragonfly Craft.
  • Make the beautiful Blue Morpho Butterfly Adaptations In The Tropical Rainforest and Fun Symmetry Craft.
  • Light up your windows with a Firefly Suncatcher Craft as you learn about this bioluminescent bug.

Sensory and Snacking Insect Fun

  • Check out how neat and inviting this Insect Ice Excavation Science Activity for Kids is, especially during the warmer months.
  • Make Clear Bug Slime For Kids for a fun sensory activity they will love.
  • Put together a Bug Sensory Bin for little hands to explore and learn about all sorts of insects.
  • Make these adorable Fruit and Vegetable Bug Snacks.

Finally, look how to make these fun clay insects.

How to Make Clay Insects

You will need:

  • Crayola Model Magic
  • Craft paint
  • paintbrushes
  • Craft stick
  • Small wood pieces
  • Pipe cleaners
Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

First, break off a small piece of clay and begin shaping it into whatever bug shape you like.

Use one of your reference books to get an idea of which bugs you want to recreate.

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Add details using a paintbrush, craft stick, or toothpicks.

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

If you are making a larger bug I recommend using a pipe cleaner inside the clay to help hold its form better.

Be sure to add antennae and legs.

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Allow your models to dry for 24 hours and then paint them.

Add some details like clay leaves and paint and sand to your wooden bases if you like to dress them up a bit like we did here for this dessert base.

Mount onto wood pieces to create a display stand and secure with glue. I found wood slices of both sizes and the rectangle at Dollar Tree.

Free Kids Insect Unit Study┃ How to Make Clay Insects

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, insects, life science, science

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

March 1, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a paper plate squirrel craft that is a fun way to express creativity while learning about the fascinating life of red squirrels and other species. Also, look at my post, Free Arctic Ground Squirrel Lapbook & Unit Study Resources.

The squirrel family includes many species, from tree squirrels to ground squirrels-including chipmunks and prairie dogs, and flying squirrels.

They come in a wide variety of fur colors as well.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

If you are looking to study nature in your own backyard squirrels are a great subject because you can find them in pretty much any habitat.

From tropical rainforest to semiarid desert, with the exception of the high polar regions and the driest of deserts, you can find squirrels.

The red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) is a tree squirrel species found in North America.

It makes its home in the coniferous forests, including evergreen and mixed forests.

They create nests called middens, made of leaves, moss, and twigs, located in the branches of conifer trees.

And the red squirrel can be found in most parts of Alaska and Canada.

Also, they can be found in the Rocky Mountain states, in the eastern United States south to northern Virginia and west to Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.

They are plentiful in the states but there are only about 140,000 red squirrels left in Great Britain.

Additionally, they are classified as ‘Near Threatened’ in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Books for Kids Who Love Learning About Squirrels

Also, add these books about different kinds of squirrels to your reading list.

You’ll love some of these living books and then add in reference books too.

16 Books & Resources For Kids Who Love Reading About Squirrels

If your child loves reading about all kinds of squirrels, they’ll love reading these books and add some of these fun resources to your unit study.

Image for Arctic Ground Squirrel: Pictures and Fun Facts on Animals for Kids

Arctic Ground Squirrel: Pictures and Fun Facts on Animals for Kids

The Arctic ground squirrel looks small, harmless and innocent. But this little creature survives some of the most challenging weather conditions that occur on the entire planet. It lives in the Arctic, which is literally on top of the world. In the winter it gets so cold that humans couldn't survive in the open!

Image for The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin (Peter Rabbit)

The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin (Peter Rabbit)

The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin is an original classic by Beatrix Potter. Beatrix Potter's famous tale of a naughty squirrel who loses his tail is as popular today as it was when it was first published over 100 years ago. Join Nutkin, his brother Twinkleberry and all his cousins as they make their way over to Owl Island to gather nuts. See what happens when Old Brown, the terrifying owl guardian of the island decides he has had enough of silly Nutkin's cheekiness! Ouch!! Beatrix Potter is regarded as one of the world's best-loved children's authors of all time. From her first book, The Tale of Peter Rabbit, published by Frederick Warne in 1902, she went on to create a series of stories based around animal characters including Mrs. Tiggy-winkle, Benjamin Bunny, Jemima Puddle-duck, Mr. Jeremy Fisher and Tom Kitten. Her humorous, lively tales and beautiful illustrations have become a natural part of childhood. With revenue from the sales of her books, Beatrix Potter bought a farm - Hill Top - in the English Lake District, where she later became a farmer and prize-winning sheep breeder. She launched the now vast merchandise programme by patenting the very first Peter Rabbit doll in 1903.

Image for Perri (Bambi's Classic Animal Tales)

Perri (Bambi's Classic Animal Tales)

A young squirrel experiences the wonders of forest life and befriends a human toddler in this collectible edition of a classic animal story from the author of Bambi.Perri is a young squirrel living in Bambi’s forest. She grows up, learning about survival, friendship, and love as she observes and interacts with the complicated world around her. Most exciting of all, she meets a three-year-old human girl who can understand and talk to animals!

Image for Gray Squirrels (Woodland Wildlife)

Gray Squirrels (Woodland Wildlife)

Gray squirrels leap from high heights to move from tree to tree. Discover these delightful rodents' life cycle and lifestyle in the woods.

Image for 8pcs,Miniature Animal Squirrel Figures

8pcs,Miniature Animal Squirrel Figures

Fun Toys include 8pcs miniature squirrel figurines in different style. With bright color and cute designs. You’ll certainly be impressed by the amazing level of details of these squirrel character figurines

Image for Life in the Neck Squirrel Trouble

Life in the Neck Squirrel Trouble

Welcome to a new adventure in the Neck, a beautiful place where animals and humans live together in harmony--most of the time. In this book, a young boy named Eli builds a log fort with his dad, but it's not long before mischievous squirrels Chatter, Whistle, and Squeak move in and take over. As the nuts, acorns, and pinecones pile up inside, Eli realizes he's going to have to get creative to get them out. Will his plan work, or will the squirrels win?

Image for The Adventures of Chatterer the Red Squirrel

The Adventures of Chatterer the Red Squirrel

Author and editor of numerous children's books, Thornton W. Burgess was also a noted conservationist. In writing for youngsters he combined a gift for storytelling with his love of the outdoors, creating an entertaining menagerie of animals whose adventures he skillfully recounted in a series of charming fables. In them, he taught young readers about nature and encouraged them to love the "lesser folk in fur and feathers."In this delightfully told tale, Burgess chronicles the escapades of Chatterer the Red Squirrel, who's known throughout the Green Forest as a mischief maker. Narrowly escaping the clutches of Shadow the Weasel and Redtail the Hawk, the bushy-tailed little fellow decides to leave the forest for a new home, only to learn that curiosity, carelessness, and mistrust can lead to a heap of troubles.

Image for Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

Flora and Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures

It begins, as the best superhero stories do, with a tragic accident that has unexpected consequences. The squirrel never saw the vacuum cleaner coming, but self-described cynic Flora Belle Buckman, who has read every issue of the comic book Terrible Things Can Happen to You!, is the just the right person to step in and save him. What neither can predict is that Ulysses (the squirrel) has been born anew, with powers of strength, flight, and misspelled poetry — and that Flora will be changed too, as she discovers the possibility of hope and the promise of a capacious heart.

Image for Nuts to You

Nuts to You

How far would you go for a friend? In Nuts to You, the funny and moving illustrated novel by Newbery Medalist Lynne Rae Perkins, two squirrels go very far indeed to save a friend who has been snatched up by a hawk. Nuts to You “begs to be read aloud . . . another completely original and exceptional package from Perkins,” said the Horn Book. Nuts to You features black-and-white art by the author on every page, as well as exclusive material original to this edition.

Jed, TsTs, and Chai are the very best of friends. So when Jed is snatched up by a hawk and carried away to another realm, TsTs and Chai resolve to go after him. Mysteriously, the hawk has dropped him. They saw it. Jed could be alive. New communities are discovered, new friends are made, huge danger is encountered (both man-made and of the fox and bobcat variety) and the mysteries of squirrel culture are revealed. Nuts to You is wholly original, funny, lively, and thought-provoking. Publishers Weekly said, “Readers . . . will relish the squirrels’ adventures, as well as Perkins’s laugh-aloud illustrations and equally witty footnotes.”

Image for Squirrels

Squirrels

Portrays the physical characteristics, behavior, life cycle, and natural habitat of the small mammals.

Image for Miss Suzy

Miss Suzy

Miss Suzy is a little gray squirrel who lives happily in her oak-tree home until she is chased away by some mean red squirrels. Poor Miss Suzy is very sad. But soon she finds a beautiful dollhouse and meets a band of brave toy soldiers.

How Miss Suzy and the soldiers help each other makes a gentle, old-fashioned tale that has captured the imaginations of girls and boys alike for more than fifty years. Arnold Lobel’s enchanting pictures are sure to make the kind squirrel and the gallant soldiers the everlasting friends of all who turn these pages.

Image for The Chisel-Tooth Tribe

The Chisel-Tooth Tribe

Here, in a comprehensive and extremely readable volume, the author-artist whose many nature books are favorites with children gives an absorbing account of little animals equipped with chisel-like teeth for gnawing including their habits, appearance, and activities. The world of this army of small mammals is one which most of us could observe for ourselves if we wished to. No one reading these lively chapters about the squirrels, beavers, rabbits, prairie dogs, etc., could ever again take them and their interesting ways for granted.

Image for Gray Squirrel at Pacific Avenue (Smithsonian's Backyard)

Gray Squirrel at Pacific Avenue (Smithsonian's Backyard)

Children will enjoy this exciting story as Gray Squirrel darts and dashes away from predators while trying to gather up a tasty meal of bird seed and acorns. Reviewed by the Smithsonian Institution for accuracy, Gray Squirrel at Pacific Avenue is a fun and informative story with beautifully detailed illustrations. Watch your children have a blast reading and learning about the animals that live in an American backyard!

Image for Grey Squirrel 8" Plush

Grey Squirrel 8" Plush

Silky plush and soft huggable bodies

Image for Squirrel (Animal World)

Squirrel (Animal World)

Text and illustrations describe the physical characteristics, habits, and natural environment of the red squirrel.

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

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

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world.
Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

Also, look at these facts about red squirrels.

5 Fascinating Facts About Squirrels

  1. Red squirrel fur can range anywhere from jet black to a dull yellowy-brown covering most shades, red to brown.
  2. Some squirrel species are able to  find food buried beneath a foot of snow which means they can lose up to 25% of their caches to other squirrels (and some of that grows into new oak trees).
  3. A newborn squirrel is only about 1” long and is born blind.
  4. Putting on some extra weight is one way squirrels stay warm during the cold winter months. The extra layer of fat helps to insulate them.
  5. While you may have thought squirrels were herbivores, they are actually omnivores, eating plants like acorns as well as meat like carcasses, small snakes, lizards, and mice.

They are adorable with their fluffy tails and long ear tufts, if you are unable to see one in person you can check out this YouTube video on Red Squirrels.

As with any great study you will want to start with a wonderful informative book that keeps your child’s attention.

Nature Anatomy is a must for any kind of nature studies, just check out this beautiful two page spread on squirrels alone.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

Next, look at these fun squirrel activities.

Fun Squirrel Activities

  1. Turn the most basic art supply into Paper Bag Handprint Squirrel Craft for a puppet to play with as you learn about squirrels.
  2. Make a Dixie Cup Squirrel Craft in any color you like, isn’t it just too cute?
  3. Art based on a book is a wonderful way to go, check out Nuts to You! Watercolor Squirrel Art Project.
  4. The simple math activity Feed the Squirrel Acorn Counting Activity is a great way to teach children the most basic of math skills like counting.
Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

Finally, look at how to make a paper plate squirrel craft.

Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

You can make your paper plate squirrel craft any color you like- gray, brown, red, or even white to create an albino squirrel, the rarest of them all.

You will need:

  • 3 Paper plates
  • Red-orange craft paint
  • Green craft paint
  • Google Eyes
  • Glue stick
  • Paintbrushes
  • Scissors
Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

First, we must put our cute little squirrel in a tree so the first thing you want to do is paint a plate green for the leaves. Set aside to dry.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

Next cut the bottom off another paper plate making it flat then follow up and around on the ribbed edge to create a tail curving up and over.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

From the third plate cut a small wedge, and then shape it by cutting ears on the top and rounding out the bottom point.

You may be able to cut your wedge out of the plate you used to cut the body if you cut carefully to conserve supplies.

Paint both your pieces your chosen red color and set aside to dry.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

Once dry you can add more detail with brown paint or a marker to create a nose, feet, and some shading to the fur.

Glue on googly eyes and use glue to attach the head to the body.

Finally, glue your finished squirrel onto his “tree”.  Use a marker to add a limb for the squirrel to rest on.

Fascinating Life of Red Squirrels | Paper Plate Squirrel Craft

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science, squirrel

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

February 28, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Here are 10 polar bear science activities preschool level. They are a great way to teach your child all about these Arctic loving creatures. Also, look at How to Homeschool Preschool for more ideas.

Besides these hands-on activities that they will love.

I also have a fun and simple idea for a polar bear themed dessert to make and enjoy.

Polar bears are one of the most identifiable creatures living in Arctic regions.

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Polar bears are strong swimmers, using their large front paws to paddle, which are slightly webbed.

They are carnivores whose main food source is seals, and they have no natural predators themselves, but walruses and wolves can kill them.

They are found mainly north of the Arctic Circle all the way to the North Pole.

There are some living south of the Arctic Circle in the Hudson Bay of Manitoba, Canada.

Polar bears can be found in Alaska, Canada, Russia, Greenland, and some northern islands.

Books for Kids About Bears

If your kids love studying about polar bears, look at these other books about bears.

I add in living books when I can find them. Then, we add reference books to our day.

14 Books About Bears of All Kinds For Kids Who Love Reading

Add some of these fun resources and activities if you're studying about bears.

Image for 1. National Geographic Readers: All About Bears

1. National Geographic Readers: All About Bears

Kids love bears and in this book they'll be introduced to them all: Grizzly, polar, sun, sloth, black, and brown. Great full-color photos reveal details about how and where they live. Perfect for beginning and young readers, National Geographic Pre-readers

Image for 2. Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

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

While I do enjoy adding theme specific books to unit studies, I really love a book that gives a lot of mileage for multiple units. The anatomy series cover so much at such an amazing price point that I think they are a must have for any nature study. While you will find several  couple pages on bears, the books can be used to study landforms, other forest animals, layers of the earth, and so much more.

Image for 3. Big Book of Beasts (The Big Book Series)

3. Big Book of Beasts (The Big Book Series)

Another great book that will definitely get more than one use. This big beautiful picture book has perfectly sized snippets of information and makes a great reference spine.

Image for 4. Do Bears Poop in the Woods?

4. Do Bears Poop in the Woods?

Field guide and intrepid explorer Huw Lewis Jones and wildlife illustrator Sam Caldwell take readers out into the wild to discover all there is to know and love about the eight different species of bears. 

Do you know your panda from your polar bear? Or can you spot the difference between a sun bear and a sloth bear? Follow your expert field guide as we travel deep into the woods and across Arctic ice to learn all the “bear” necessities.

Image for 5. I Escaped The Grizzly Maze: A National Park Survival Story

5. I Escaped The Grizzly Maze: A National Park Survival Story

This is based on a true story and makes a great independent read for your older kids.

Image for 6. Forest Animal Track Game Flash Cards

6. Forest Animal Track Game Flash Cards

Animal Track game is a educational game that will teach kids how to match animals with their tracks and where to find them!

Most animals do not want to come in close contact with humans, but if you learn to notice and recognize their tracks, you will be able identify which animals visit your neighborhood or like to walk along the same trails as you do. Animal tracks can become a window into an otherwise hidden world-the presence and habits of wild animals.

Image for 7. Forest Animal-opoly

7. Forest Animal-opoly

Is there anything they haven't made an Opoly about? This woodland themed one will be a great addition to your study.

Image for 8. Camp Board Game

8. Camp Board Game

Finally, this game has two levels making it easy to include beginners and more experienced kids in the same game, Animal identification, fun facts, and quick gameplay make this ideal for any woods, wildlife, or camping themed unit

Image for 9. Learning Ecosystems, Food Chains & Food Learning Center Game - Grades 6-9

9. Learning Ecosystems, Food Chains & Food Learning Center Game - Grades 6-9

This is a fun way to learn and reinforce the food chain in the forest, with bears being one of the apex predators, making it ideal to go along with a bear unit study.

Image for 10. Bears: Polar Bears, Black Bears and Grizzly Bears (Kids Can Press Wildlife Series)

10. Bears: Polar Bears, Black Bears and Grizzly Bears (Kids Can Press Wildlife Series)

The eating habits of bears is one of 14 topics in this clearly written look at three North American bears --- grizzly bears, polar bears and black bears.

Image for 11. Black Bears: A Natural History

11. Black Bears: A Natural History

Of the three species (grizzly/brown, polar and black bear), Taylor examines and portrays his devotion and passion specifically to the black bear, the most populous of the species.

Image for Polar Bears

Polar Bears

The polar bear is the biggest and most powerful of the animals that are able to survive the hostile climate of the Arctic. Cubs are born during the cold dark winter, even though they start out with only a thin coat of fur and weigh a little over one pound. The mothers raise and teach them so they may grow and survive in the wild. Here is information about how polar bears swim and hunt, how they keep warm and dry, and the many other ways they adapt to their environment.

Image for Where Do Polar Bears Live? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

Where Do Polar Bears Live? (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

The Arctic might be a bit too chilly for humans, but it's the perfect home for polar bears. But the earth is getting warmer and the ice is melting. Where will the polar bears live? How can we help protect their home?

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It's a Level 2 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, which means the book explores more challenging concepts for children in the primary grades. The 100+ titles in this leading nonfiction series are:

Image for Polar Bear: Fascinating Animal Facts for Kids (This Incredible Planet)

Polar Bear: Fascinating Animal Facts for Kids (This Incredible Planet)

Fascinating Animal Facts | Polar Bear Learn all about the amazing and majestic polar bear. This hardy and formidable creature survives in the harshest of environments!

This Incredible Planet series provides young readers with interesting information about the Earth’s most fascinating creatures.

Beautiful color photography makes each animal come to life. Learn about the polar bear’s habitat, diet, breeding, lifespan, behavior, threats, and so much more!

Next, add more hands-on fun about polar bears.

10 Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool

Choose one or more of these polar bear science activities to simply teach your child about polar bears and other animals with easy-to-understand hands-on fun.

  1. This demonstration is a great explanation of how animals like polar bears in extreme temperatures are able to survive- Inuit of the Arctic: How Animals Survive Harsh Winters Fun Blubber Activity.
  2. A very basic demonstration for Why Are Polar Bears White? A Preschool Investigation doesn’t require much time for setup or execution.
  3. Grow Your Own Polar Bear is just a fun silly activity that they will enjoy and teaches preschoolers about the scientific method.
  4. Watch All About Polar Bears For Kids to learn facts and see real polar bears in action as they lumber through the snow.
  5. Build a shelter for Polar Bears with this STEM for Kids Structure Challenge as you talk about the habitats and habits.
  6. Dig a little deeper into our topic with the Polar Bear Activity and The Impact of Melting Sea Ice Activity to teach your child about the effects of environment on nature without going above their heads.
  7. Try out this Crafts for Winter An Easy and Fun Polar Bear Fork Painting while you learn about the characteristics of the polar bear like his thick winter fur and why it’s white.
  8. Learn How to Make an Arctic Small World Sensory Bin that lets your child use their imagination, I also find that these spark lots of great questions from kids as well.
  9. Learn Why are Polar Bears White? Arctic Tundra Animal Adaptations to help explain this simple science to young children.
  10. Grab a free Polar Bear life cycle printable to teach your child about one of the most basic science processes.
Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Finally, look how to make this fun polar bear dessert.

How to Make a Fun Polar Bear Pop Dessert

Now onto this delicious dessert activity.

You do not have to put your cookie on a stick.

You can just leave it as a cookie, this is just a fun option for a unique twist that will help your child remember all the fun stuff they learned about polar bears.

Also, you can also use chocolate chips in place of the candy eyes to save a little bit more money and everything else you might even have already on hand.

You will need:

  • Sugar cookie dough
  • Decorating icing
  • Chocolate chips
  • Candy eyes
  • Coconut
  • Lollipop sticks
Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

First, bake the sugar cookies, you can use your favorite recipe or grab a ready to bake dough.

I must share with you this trick I learned to make your cookies perfectly round.

As soon as your cookies come out of the oven take a cup or small bowl and put over them, swirl it around gently to shape the outsides.

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Immediately transfer your warm cookies to parchment paper and if you are going to turn them into cookie pops immediately slide your sticks in the bottom all the way to the top, not quite coming through the top.

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Allow to cool completely then ice the entire cookie.

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Sprinkle or dip your cookie in coconut to give your polar bear some fur. If you don’t care for coconut, you could also use shaved chocolate or leave it off entirely.

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Add a little bit of icing to the back of the eyes and put them in place.

Use the tip of the decorating icing to make a puddle for the polar bear’s muzzle and two smaller ones at the top for ears.

Press a chocolate chip cookie into the muzzle for the nose.

Just how adorable are these Polar Bear pops?

Polar Bear Science Activities Preschool | How To Make A Fun Dessert

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: arctic, bears, crafts, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, life science, preschool

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

February 22, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

From science to literature, I have a wonderful selection of owl unit study ideas to spark your next lesson. Also, grab more ideas on my Best Homeschool Unit Studies page.

Included is a simple how-to for dissecting owl pellets.

Owl pellets are the indigestible parts of creatures that owls eat such as the skull, claws, teeth, fur, and feathers that cannot safely pass through an owl’s digestive tract.

So instead, the gizzard of the owl presses everything into a tight pellet that the owl then regurgitates.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

They look just like a little round clod of dirt at first glance.

As you begin to pull it apart you will find fur, bones, and more.

They are both gross and fascinating at the same time. If you have never examined one, I highly recommend doing so.

But beyond that grossly wonderful hands-on activity there is plenty more to choose from to create a small or larger lesson on this nocturnal bird of prey.

I have science, language arts, math, and even art and life skills bundled up to give you plenty of inspiration for an owl unit study.

There is so much to learn about owls that they really can be their own study.

They are found on nearly every continent and there are roughly 250 owl species.

All of them live above ground except for the burrowing owl that makes its nest underground in holes abandoned by other animals.

Books About Owls for Kids

13 Books for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read to About Owls

Add some of these books about owls to your home library or for your unit study.

Image for Owls in the Family

Owls in the Family

Every child needs to have a pet. No one could argue with that.   But what happens when your pet is an owl, and your owl is terrorizing the neighbourhood?  

In Farley Mowat’s exciting children’s story, a young boy’s pet menagerie—which includes crows, magpies, gophers and a dog—grows out of control with the addition of two cantankerous pet owls. The story of how Wol and Weeps turn the whole town upside down s warm, funny, and bursting with adventure and suspense.

Image for An owl and three pussycats

An owl and three pussycats

A baby owl and three kittens receive a bit of extra help in growing up on Maple Hill Farm.

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Owl Moon

Late one winter night a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird. But there is no answer.Wordlessly the two companions walk along, for when you go owling you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes there isn't an owl, but sometimes there is. Distinguished author Jane Yolen has created a gentle, poetic story that lovingly depicts the special companionship of a young child and her father as well as humankind's close relationship to the natural world. Wonderfully complemented by John Schoenherr's soft, exquisite watercolor illustrations, this is a verbal and visual treasure, perfect for reading around and sharing at bedtime.

Image for The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark

Plop, the baby barn owl, is like every barn owl there ever was, except for one thing—he is afraid of the dark! Mrs. Barn Owl sends him down from the nest-hole to find out more about the dark, and it's not long before Plop finds out that DARK IS SUPER! This comforting story filled with gentle humor and warm and soothing illustrations has been enjoyed for decades by parents and children who want to snuggle down with a good read.

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Little Owl's Night

Little Owl enjoys a lovely night in the forest visiting his friend the raccoon, listening to the frogs croak and the crickets chirp, and watching the fog that hovers overhead.

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Owls

On silent wings a bird sweeps down in the moonlight...   With their striking appearance and distinctive hoot, hoot, owls are one of the most recognizable birds in the world.  But did you know there are more than 140 types of owls living in the world?   Gail Gibbons' Owls celebrates the similarities and differences in the many species of owls, from large to small, living in diverse environments and making many different kinds of nests.  The book covers basics of owl behavior, information on how they hunt, and the many factors that have led some types of owls to become endangered.   The boldly colored illustrations feature clear labeling, and all new words are defined and reinforced with clear, simple language, appropriate for young readers.  The book also features a page of intriguing owl trivia.

Image for Barn Owl (Science I Can Read Book)

Barn Owl (Science I Can Read Book)

Easy-to-read text and illustrations trace the life of a barn owl from his birth until he leaves the nest and finds a mate of his own.

Image for The Book of North American Owls

The Book of North American Owls

Everything you ever wanted to know about owls on the North American continent. Features the twenty-one species of owls and all their vital statistics. Includes a detailed, illustrated glossary with maps showing residence and breeding ranges.

Image for There's an Owl in the Shower

There's an Owl in the Shower

It’s people versus owls in this laugh-out-loud story about one family’s love for a special little owl, from bestselling nature writer and Newbery Medal winner Jean Craighead George!

Borden Watson’s father is out of job, and it’s all the spotted owls’ fault. The birds are endangered, which means loggers, like Mr. Watson, are no longer allowed to cut down trees.

It doesn’t make sense to Borden. Why are owls being put first over the citizens?

But when Borden finds an owlet in the forest who needs his care, he brings it back home—much to Mr. Watson’s displeasure. Hilarious chaos soon ensues, as the tiny owl makes big changes in this logging family’s home, and makes his way into their hearts.

This heartwarming story is a great way for young readers to learn about important topics, like endangered species, conservation, and environmentalism.

Image for Knight Owl (Caldecott Honor Book) (The Knight Owl Series, 1)

Knight Owl (Caldecott Honor Book) (The Knight Owl Series, 1)

A determined Owl builds strength and confidence in this medieval picture book about the real mettle of a hero: wits, humor, and heart.  Since the day he hatched, Owl dreamed of becoming a real knight. He may not be the biggest or the strongest, but his sharp nocturnal instincts can help protect the castle, especially since many knights have recently gone missing. While holding guard during Knight Night Watch, Owl is faced with the ultimate trial—a frightening intruder. It’s a daunting duel by any measure. But what Owl lacks in size, he makes up for in good ideas. Full of wordplay and optimism, this surprising display of bravery proves that cleverness (and friendship) can rule over brawn. 

Image for A Snowy Owl Story (Wildlife on the Move)

A Snowy Owl Story (Wildlife on the Move)

One winter, as food gets scarce, a snowy owl finds himself forced to look in new and unfamiliar spots in order to find food and a place to call home. Based on a true story, A Snowy Owl Story describes, through the tale of one particular owl, the recent irruption of snowy owls all across the United States. Through this simple narrative, youngsters will learn about migration, adaptation, and respectful human interaction with nature. This unique title (first in a projected series of four board books) is written and designed specifically for a preschool market; few board books exist that tell conservation stories for this age range. Published in cooperation with Maine Audubon.

Image for Reggie The Burrowing Owl: The True Story Of How A Family Found And Raised A Burrowing Owl

Reggie The Burrowing Owl: The True Story Of How A Family Found And Raised A Burrowing Owl

This is the true story about how one, little orphaned burrowing owl brought five children and their parents together on a mission to care for him as best they could back in 1967. While taking care of, Reggie, we learned that—there’s no such thing as an ordinary day with a burrowing owl around. This is not just a story for children, but the whole family and though our days revolved around Reggie, it was the unique way Reggie impacted ours and those around us ordinary lives which makes this story so special. We hope you will find it so as well."Populations of burrowing owls are declining in some areas due to pesticide use, poisoning of prairie dog colonies, and automobile collisions. Conservation concerns differ by region, and in various states they are listed as endangered, threatened, or as a species of concern.

Image for Owl at Home (I Can Read Level 2)

Owl at Home (I Can Read Level 2)

Owl lives by himself in a warm little house. But whether Owl is inviting Winter in on a snowy night or welcoming a new friend he meets while on a stroll, Owl always has room for visitors!

Arnold Lobel's beloved Level 2 I Can Read classic was created for kids who read on their own but still need a little help. Whether shared at home or in a classroom, the engaging stories, longer sentences, and language play of Level Two books are proven to help kids take their next steps toward reading success.

Also, look at more ideas.

OWL UNIT STUDY RESOURCES

  • How to Make a Toilet Roll Owl & Elf Owl Facts

Resources for an Owl Unit Study

SCIENCE

Watch this video on the Great Horned Owl for a bird’s eye view.

Grab the Big Book of Birds for preschoolers through middle elementary (and maybe beyond), it is a great oversized book full of bird information and illustrations.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Dissect an owl pellet.

I found this fantastic free printable owl pellet bone sorting chart that you can use along with the owl pellets as you dissect them and carefully remove the individual bones.

This is a great way to identify which ones are which.

For younger learners try out Owl Eyesight – STEM Exploration for Kids.

Learn about the life cycle of an owl as you label each part of the cycle with the free life cycle of an owl labeling worksheets.  

I enjoy adding books to our library that are good for more than one use.

Nature Anatomy is just such a resource, it has a nice section on owls with pretty illustrations, and information on bird anatomy, birds of prey, eggs, nests, and calls.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

LANGUAGE ARTS

For preschoolers I have this wonderful O is for Owl unit with plenty of hands-on activity ideas.

Have your middle or high school teen write a report on one species of owl including its habitat, how to identify it, and preferred prey.

One of my favorite children’s books is Owl Moon and it makes a great addition to read aloud for this topic.

MATH

Try out this Owl Matching Game for kids to help your child make the connection between the number of objects and the number itself.

Hoot Owl Hoot is a simple cooperative matching game that preschoolers will enjoy.

GEOGRAPHY

Owls are found in nearly every continent in the world from deserts to coniferous forests to the Arctic tundra.

Take out a map and have your child identify the habitat of several owls.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

An ornithologist is a scientist who studies birds, including owls. Have your child research and list 3 different things that this type of scientist does.

ART AND LIFE SKILLS

This Owl Head craft does not have written instructions but I think the step-by-step photos are enough to create your own unique owl art piece.

This one goes under art but is also a fantastic life skill, simple sewing to create a Stuffed Winter Owl Heat Pack.

These paper bag owls take what would typically be a preschool project and raise it a few levels making it great for upper elementary and middle school.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

How to Dissect Owl Pellets 

You will need:

  • Grab these large Barn Owl Pellets. When they are jumbo like this one, it’s so much more fun.
  • Tweezers
  • Skewer
  • Magnifying glass
  • Tray

First, owl pellets generally come sanitized and with instructions, but I wanted to give you more insight and ideas for approaching the dissection.

To make it inviting, spread out your pellets as well as the science tools on a tray.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Use tools like skewers and tweezers to carefully pull the pellet apart.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Remove all the little bone fragments.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Examine them a little closer using a magnifying glass.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Use a bone identification chart to match up the bones you find in the pellet.

You may find enough to reconstruct a little skeleton.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Be sure to wash up well afterward and if you want to keep your bones you can store them in a little vial on your science shelf, I have found similar to these at Dollar Tree in multipacks.

Free Kids Owl Unit Study Ideas | How to Dissect Pellets

Leave a CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, life science, owl, science, unit studies, unit study, unit study approach

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

February 17, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Here is an easy and fun snake craft preschool idea that any reptile loving kid will love to make and observe as long as it lasts afterwards. Also, look at How to Homeschool Preschool.

Snakes are a fascinating topic for many preschoolers.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

They are intrigued by the way they move, the way they feel, and unique characteristics like the shedding process.

You might have the kid that comes walking through the kitchen with a frog in one hand and a snake in the other.

If that’s your kid you’re going to want to do this snake unit including a very fun DIY snakeskin activity.

If you have found an intact snakeskin on a nature walk or maybe even in your own backyard, it’s cool for your preschooler to hold and study.

Snake Books for Kids

Next, I love adding books to our day. Choose one or two of these non-scary living books for your preschooler.

Also, I add reference books to use for a child of any age.

9 Books for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read to About Snakes

Grab some of these books for your fun reading day about snakes or for a snake unit study.

Image for Verdi

Verdi

Deep in the jungle where all the pythons are green, Verdi is born a little bit different. This gorgeously illustrated picture book from the creator of Stellaluna sends a timely message to young readers about the importance of loving the skin you're in.Young Verdi doesn’t want to grow up big and green. He likes his bright yellow skin and sporty stripes. Besides, all the green snakes he meets are lazy, boring, and rude. When Verdi finds a pale green stripe stretching along his whole body, he tries every trick he can think of to get rid of it—and ends up in a heap of trouble. Despite his efforts, Verdi turns green, but to his delight, he discovers that being green doesn’t mean he has to stop being himself.

Image for I (Don't) Like Snakes (Read and Wonder)

I (Don't) Like Snakes (Read and Wonder)

They’re slithery and scaly, and they have icky, flicking tongues and creepy, unblinking eyes. What’s to like about a snake? You’d be surprised!This little girl has a problem. Her family doesn’t have dogs, or cats, or birds—they have snakes! And she really, really, really really doesn’t like snakes. Her family can’t understand her dislike, but they can help her understand why snakes do the things they do and look the way they look. And maybe once she knows more, she will start to like snakes a little . . . or even a lot. Packed with snake trivia, this clever story includes realistic illustrations and simple explanations of snake behavior sure to make even slither-phobic readers shed their misconceptions about these fascinating reptiles. Back matter includes a note about snakes, a bibliography, and an index.

Image for Python (Read and Wonder)

Python (Read and Wonder)

“This attractive and readable book is an excellent introduction to informational literature and to a fascinating creature.” — School Library JournalPython stirs and slithers out from her shelter, smelling the air with her forked tongue. It’s time to molt her dull scales and reveal the glistening snake underneath. Gliding along a tree, the hungry python stalks her prey. Combining informative facts, expressive illustrations, and a lyrical, mesmerizing narrative, this book will captivate anyone fascinated by this iconic creature.

Image for [Akimbo and the Snakes] [Author: McCall Smith, Alexander] [October, 2007]

[Akimbo and the Snakes] [Author: McCall Smith, Alexander] [October, 2007]

Akimbo can’t believe his luck when his father allows him to visit his uncle Peter’s snake park. And when a local village calls to report a sighting of a green mamba snake—the rarest and most deadly one of all—Akimbo hopes to help his uncle catch it for the park. But little does he expect to find himself trapped face to face with the deadliest of reptiles. Bestselling novelist Alexander McCall Smith brings the majesty and dangers of Africa to life in this vividly imagined adventure for young readers.

Image for A Primer on Reptiles & Amphibians: A Collection of Educational Nature Bulletins

A Primer on Reptiles & Amphibians: A Collection of Educational Nature Bulletins

A Primer on Reptiles & Amphibians is an innovative educational resource designed to forge a connection between the reader and the creeping critters of the world. Turtles, frogs, lizards, salamanders, snakes, and crocodiles… these animals evoke fear and fascination. This primer dispels myths and unlocks mysteries surrounding these diverse survivors which have mastered virtually every habitat on Earth. Tragically, these animals now face pressures of unprecedented severity, but there is still time to make a difference if more of us work together. 

Image for Everything You Need to Know About Snakes

Everything You Need to Know About Snakes

Embark on a fun, fact-filled dive into the world of snakes with Everything You Need to Know About Snakes. Children will love to learn all the basics of reptile anatomy in this beautiful and informative book on our serpent friends.Packed with vibrant pictures and lots of fascinating facts, kids can enjoy learning all about a snake’s habitat and behavior. See how they survive in forests, deserts, and oceans, and how these clever creatures have adapted to live in seemingly inhospitable habitats. Alongside, in between, and on top of all that, this riveting snake book also provides ideas for things to make, games to play, quizzes, and amazing facts to share with friends!Inside the pages of this reptile book for children, you’ll find:- Facts on habitat and anatomy, as well as oddities such as why snakes have scales and why chameleons change color.-Close-ups, quizzes, and games with an exciting take on the amazing world of our cold-blooded friends.-A look at these creatures from all angles – information on habitat and breeding habits, as well as information on pythons, Komodo dragons, sea turtles, and many more.

Image for The Book of Snakes: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World

The Book of Snakes: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species from around the World

For millennia, humans have regarded snakes with an exceptional combination of fascination and revulsion. Some people recoil in fear at the very suggestion of these creatures, while others happily keep them as pets. Snakes can convey both beauty and menace in a single tongue flick and so these creatures have held a special place in our cultures. Yet, for as many meanings that we attribute to snakes—from fertility and birth to sin and death—the real-life species represent an even wider array of wonders.The Book of Snakes presents 600 species of snakes from around the world, covering nearly one in six of all snake species. It will bring greater understanding of a group of reptiles that have existed for more than 160 million years, and that now inhabit every continent except Antarctica, as well as two of the great oceans.

Image for A Water Snake's Year

A Water Snake's Year

Presents a year in the life of a female water snake, resident of Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Image for Mr. Yowder and the Giant Bull Snake

Mr. Yowder and the Giant Bull Snake

A sign painter and a giant bull snake cause a commotion when they replace Buffalo Bill as official buffalo hunters for the United States Army.

5 Snake Facts Your Preschooler Will Love

  1. All snakes are reptiles and vertebrates, which means that they have a backbone that provides them with protection of their organs and gives their body stability and movement.
  2. Hawaii and Alaska are the only two states in the US that do not have snakes, road trip anyone?
  3. The longest known snake is the reticulated python, which can grow to 32 feet. Try measuring that out with a rope or string to show your child just how big that really is!
  4. Snakes shed their skin somewhere between 4 and 12 times a year, the scientific name for this is Ecdysis.
  5. Snakes have two layers of skin. The top layer has scales that are visible. These scales are made out of keratin which is the same material your fingernails are made of. The second layer of snakeskin is underneath and  will become the new layer once the snake sheds its skin.
Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Also, here are more activities about snakes.

Celebrate Snakes With More Fun Activities

  • Create clay snakes with amazing detail in the scales by using discarded fruit mesh bags.
  • Mix and Match Articulated Snakes are a great tool for creativity but are also a unique way to help your child learn to develop stronger hand eye coordination and fine motor skills as they snap and unsnap them creating new snakes each time.  What I also love about them is that they can be used for patterning and even to practice making some letters.
  • Make a big snake that can be worn around the neck using this Fun Easy Amazon Rainforest Crafts and Make a Bubble Wrap Pattern Anaconda.
  • Check out these cute little Pipe Cleaner and Perler Bead Snakes that are great for fine motor exercise.
  • Play Dough Snakes let your child’s creative side take over while their hands get a workout too.
  • Before you move onto today’s craft watch this really cool video demonstrating how a snake sheds its skin to help them understand it a bit better.
Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Finally, look how to make this snake craft preschool activity.

Snake Craft Preschool

I tried several methods like dipping the snake in glue and only painting one layer to make it quicker and easier but for the best results you will want to follow the instructions I used below.

Once dry it is clear, the texture is like that of real snakeskin, and it will pick up the detail of the scales and eyes if your rubber snake has them, making it realistic.

You will need:

  • Rubber Snake
  • School Glue
  • Paper Plate
  • Foam brush/paint brush
  • Wax Paper or Silicone Mat
Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

First, lay your snake out on waxed paper or a silicone mat, you can even use a coated paper plate.

You want to use something that the dripping glue will separate easily from. I have found these craft mats to be invaluable for things like this as well as painting and they clean up so easily!

Paint a thick layer of glue over the entire thing from nose to tail.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Allow to dry just until the outer coating begins to dry out just a bit, repeat twice more to give it a thick coat. If you paint one coat right after another it doesn’t work as well.

Leave the snake to dry overnight until completely cured throughout.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Cut off the little extra bits where the glue has pooled and dried around the snake form.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Begin at one end and carefully peel back the skin.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

If the bottom is covered in glue you may need to flip it over and split the underside first.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

If you go slowly and carefully you will get large pieces, maybe even an entire snake shaped skin.

Look at the details of the eyes from just glue.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

And even each individual scale.

This makes a great addition to your science shelf so that your child can investigate it by observing the impressions of the scales, measuring its length, feeling the texture, and more.

Celebrate Snakes | How To Make A Fake Snakeskin Snake Craft Preschool

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, life science, science, snakes

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