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life science

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

January 5, 2023 | 6 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You’ll love this free bird unit study and dynamic bird lapbook. Be sure to grab my other lapbook ideas and Best Homeschool Unit Studies on my page.

And a great way to begin this unit study is to make a delicious and fun edible bird nest.

This one is a great addition to this bird unit study.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

It’s easy, adorable and tasty.

Make these edible bird nests together with your budding ornithologist as part of a bigger study.

This unit study comes just in time for National Bird Day on January 5th.

First, begin with some of these topics to cover in the bird study.

  • Common Species
  • Feathers
  • Beaks and their uses
  • Migration
  • Nests
  • Eggs
  • Calls

In addition, here are two more facts:

  1. All birds have feathers, but not all birds can fly. For example, penguins do not fly.
  2. And all birds lay eggs, breathe air, and are warm blooded.

Bird Watching Questions

Next, when we learn about birds, I find a list of questions helps to identify what type of bird we’re looking at.

These same questions can be used in your nature walk or just looking in your backyard.

  1. What is the bird doing? (Answer: Flying, perching, hopping, in water, climbing,etc.)
  2. What shape is the bird? (Answer: Look at bird head size to body proportion. And beak size to bird head. Notice the bird’s overall body size.)
  3. How big is it?
  4. Explain what are field markings. For instance, stripes, colors, patches and patterns are field markings. So then ask what field markings do you see?
  5. Are the wings round or pointed?
  6. And what shape is the bill?
  7. How is the bird behaving? (Answer: What is the feeding style, how is it moving and is it with a flock or alone,)

I would highly recommend a field guide and binoculars to do research in real life

More Hands-on Bird Activities

  • How to Make a Chalk Pastel Bird Nest Easy Drawing
  • How To Make A Blue-Footed Booby Bird Craft
  • How To Make A Fun Animal Soap Carving & A Quick Study on A Swan
  • The Colorful Blue Jays Winter Food | Make Fun Seed Slime
  • How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders With Kids

Free Bird Teacher’s Guides and Lesson Plans

In addition, here are some fun and free educator guides and lesson plans about birds.

  • A Teacher’s Guide To Hawaiian Birds This has a nice glossary for vocabulary words and pictures too.
  • Lesson Plan for the lower grades.
  • Lesson Plans for middle school.
  • High School Ideas. Citizen Science has some ideas for projects like tracking sightings, nest watch,

  • Beak Variations
  • Migration Challenge. Why do bird migrate?
  • Learning About Bird Migration
  • Preschool to Kindergarten age Lesson Plan

  • What’s in a Bird Song
  • Free Bird Coloring Pages
  • Another lesson plan for early learning.
  • Students examine historical examples of art with birds as the subject. High School
  • Name That Bird Middle to High School

Moreover, research about different types of bird nests.

5 Common Types of Bird Nests

Also, when your child knows how to observe the types of nests, then it helps to match them with type of bird.

Besides many animals build nests and birds are some of the most expert builders.

Most birds’ nests fall into 5 main types of nests.

  1. cupped (or half-cupped). Used by songbirds and are round with a dip in the center. And swallows use half-cupped nests which adhere to a surface.
  2. cavity. Woodpeckers used cavities in a tree.
  3. Pendulum or Pendant. Baltimore Orioles use suspending type sac-like nests.
  4. Scrape. Used by ground-nesting birds in open habitats. Killdeer make scrape nests.
  5. Burrow. Burrowing Owls make burrow nests.

Cupped nest. A cup nest is cup-shaped and can be made with a variety of materials such as grass, moss,
lichen, or spiderweb

Cavity nest: A cavity nest is a hollowed-out opening in the trunk of a tree.

Pendulum or pendant nest: A hanging sac-like shape, usually suspended from a small tree branch.

Scrape – A type of nest without much material and are shallow ground impressions.

Burrow – This is either a hole burrowed or borrowed from another animal.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Lastly, think about the type of materials a bird collects to build a list. Have your child collect some of them to build his special nest.

  • dried grass
  • twigs
  • green grass
  • feathers
  • hair
  • mud or dirt
  • leaves
  • bark
  • pine needles
  • straw
  • shredded plant stems
  • animal hair
  • moss
  • old spiderwebs
Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Check out some of these resources to help you cover every aspect of birds you might want to learn about.

Bird Books, Activities, and Resources

Then, add in some of these fun books and resources.

17 Books, Resources, and Activities About Birds

You'll love these fun resources if you're studying about birds. Besides, you can study about birds anytime of the year.

So, add one or two of these to your unit study, nature journaling, or just fun for the day.

1. A Place for Birds

In simple yet compelling language, Melissa Stewart showcases twelve North American birds, from the familiar eastern bluebird to the rare Kirtland's warbler. Her clear narrative shows the threats these birds face, and informative sidebars describe a wide variety of efforts to save them. In addition, remarkable full-color illustrations vividly and accurately depict the birds within the ecosystems that support their survival. Range maps and additional bird facts are also included.

2. Feathers: Not Just for Flying

Young naturalists explore sixteen birds in this elegant introduction to the many, remarkable uses of feathers. A concise main text highlights how feathers are not just for flying. More curious readers are invited to dig deeper with informative sidebars that underscore how feathers of all shapes and sizes help birds with warming or cooling, protect them from the sun, help them swim, glide or even
dig.

3. A Nest Is Noisy (Family Treasure Nature Encylopedias)

This gorgeous and informative look at the fascinating world of nests, from those of tiny bee hummingbirds to those of orangutans high in the rainforest canopy.

4. Big Book of Birds (The Big Book Series)

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

5. Peterson Field Guide To Birds

For decades, the Peterson Field Guide to Birdsof Eastern and Central North America has been a popular and trusted guide for birders of all levels, thanks to its famous system of identification and unparalleled illustrations. Following the Spring 2020 update to Peterson Field Guide to Birds of North America, this guide will feature updated text and range maps, and art updated to reflect current knowledge in ornithology. 

6. How to Feed Backyard Birds: A Step-by-Step Guide for Kids

How to Feed Backyard Birds: A Step-by-Step Guide for Kids is the perfect resource for beginners who are young (and not so young) to discover the joy of attracting birds to your yard. Bird lover and expert Chris Earley wants to share his passion for our colorful singing and flying neighbors with the whole family.

7. Wingspan Board Game - A Bird-Collection, Engine-Building Game

Competitive, card-driven, engine-building board game.

Challenging strategy game recommended for those ages 14 plus

Game includes 170 unique bird cards, 26 bonus cards and 16 Automa cards, 103 food tokens and 75 egg miniatures, 5 custom wooden dice and 5 player mats, 1 birdfeeder dice tower and 2-piece Game Trayz custom tray, 1 goal mat and 8 goal tiles, 1 first-player token and 40 action cubes, 4 clear plastic resource containers, 1 scorepad, and 3 rulebooks.

8. Beaks!

Young naturalists explore a variety of birds, their habitats, and how their beaks help them build, eat, and survive. From the twisted beak of a crossbill to the color changing bill of a seagull, readers will learn fun facts about how beaks are designed and used as tools by birds of all shapes and sizes.  Bright, bold cut-paper illustrations create amazingly realistic tableaus of birds in their natural
environments with their beaks in action.

9. Bird Figurine Toy Birds for Kids Realistic Bird

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

10. Professor Noggin's Birds of North America Trivia Card Game

PLAY & LEARN: Professor Noggin’s series of educational card games encourages kids to learn interesting facts about their favorite subjects.

FUN FACTS: Everything young birders need to know about the most common and interesting Birds of North America. Learn to identify different species and discover fascinating facts about their habitat and behavior.

CARD GAME: Each of the thirty game cards combines trivia, true or false, and multiple-choice questions. A special three-numbered die is included which adds an element of unpredictability.

11. Audubon's Birds of America Coloring Book

Including the red-winged blackbird, painted bunting, wood duck, great blue heron, ruby-throated hummingbird, purple finch, and blue jay, 46 different species of birds from all parts of the United States are included in this book. The pictures have been faithfully redrawn by Paul E. Kennedy from originals by John James Aububon (1785–1851), the most famous American painter-naturalist.

12. The Boy Who Drew Birds: A Story of John James Audubon

If there was one thing James loved to do more than anything else, it was to be in the great outdoors watching his beloved feathered friends.In the fall of 1804, he was determined to find out if the birds nesting near his Pennsylvania home would really return the following spring. Through careful observation, James laid the foundation for all that we know about migration patterns today.

13. Attracting Birds to Your Backyard: 536 Ways To Turn Your Yard and Garden Into a Haven For Your Favorite Birds

Enjoy your home and garden as never before when you have a yard that's filled with colorful birds and bird songs as well as flowers. This A-to-Z guide includes:Terrific tips and plans for building bird feeders, birdbaths, and birdhouses.Recipes for making bird food that is sure to be a hit with your feathered friends--including Chickadee Doughnut Delights and Easy Bird Treat Mini-Muffins.The 25 best plants to grow to attract birds to your yard--including columbine and honeysuckle, hummingbird favorites.How to identify and attract goldfinches, chickadees, cardinals, and more than 50 other favorite birds to your yard. Plus, you'll learn what their songs and antics really mean.

14. Field Guide to the Nests, Eggs, and Nestlings of North American Birds

Describes all species found in the North American region and offers information on breeding cycles, nesting habits, and provides pictures of nestlings and eggs

15. What's That Bird? Teacher Guide

This study guide accompanies What's That Bird? published by Storey Publishing in 2005, incorporating facts to know, comprehension questions, and characteristics of specific birds. Sections include: 'Meet the Bird', 'How Birds Live', and 'The Wider World of Birds'. Student Book and What's That Bird? sold separately.

16. Paint by Sticker: Birds: Create 12 Stunning Images One Sticker at a Time!

Nature's Masterpieces—ready for paintingPeel the sticker,Paint the sticker, And watch your painting come to life.Paint by Sticker: Birds celebrates the rainbow of colors and shapes of the avian world: a red-headed woodpecker, a blue jay, an orange and black Baltimore oriole, an electric bright hummingbird.

17. Sibley Backyard Birding Flashcards

The Sibley Field Guide to Birds is now transformed into 100 easy-to-reference cards housed in one handsome pull-drawer gift box. Divided into one stack of 50 common Western and Eastern North American birds, and one stack of 50 common birds found across North America, each card features precise illustrations and text concerning habitat, behavior, and voice description necessary for easy identification. Edited with the backyard birder in mind, each bird card is accompanied with a regional map as an additional guide to migratory patterns.

Delightful Birds Lapbook

Also, you’ll love this fun delightful birds lapbooks.

It’s geared toward upper elementary to middle school-ish but of course grades are selective.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Awesome Features of the Bird Lapbook

  • You get this SAME lapbook TWO different ones. One lapbook has a facts filled in each minibook and the other lapbook has minibooks with all blank inside pages.
  • Because I use a combination of cursive and print fonts, I aim my lapbooks toward upper elementary up to high school. 
  • This lapbook is aimed at upper elementary to middle school-ish.
  • However, because one lapbook is BLANK you can use it for any age.
  • This is a .pdf instant downloadable product and not a physical product.
  • You are paying for the printables, the lapbook.
  • You can use any reference materials, books, or online resources to complete the lapbook.
  • I don’t provide links in the lapbooks for filling in the information. This keeps my prices low for my products, but I do provide free links and unit studies on my site as I can.
  • My printables are very flexible. You decide which topics you want your children to research.  Also, you can mix and match filled in and blank minibooks of your choice.
  • Dynamic Delightful Bird Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    Dynamic Delightful Bird Lapbook for Multiple Ages

    $4.00
    Add to cart

Additionally, here are more bird unit study activities.

Bird Unit Study Resources

  • Free Bird Journal
  • Cardinal Birds in Winter and Birch Trees Easy Watercolor Kids Activity
  • How to Make a Fun Paper Mache American Robin Bird Craft
  • Why Bats Are Not Birds Fun Homeschool Unit Study and Lapbook
  • How to Make a Kid’s Fun and Easy Bird Nest Activity
  • How to Make an Easy Jumbo Stick Bird Feeder with Kids
  • Hands-On Nature Study: Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity
  • Hands-On Nature Study: Make a Fun Bird Nesting Bag
  • Colorful Winter Bird: Northern Cardinal Lapbook & Unit Study
  • Easy and Fun Nature Study: Beautiful Birds
  • How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders

Too, let’s make a fun hands-on edible nest to go with this unit study.

How to Make Edible Bird Nests

You will need:

  • 2 cups pretzel sticks
  • ¼ cup butterscotch chips
  • ¼ cup chocolate chips
  • mm’s
Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Directions:

Lay out a piece of waxed paper on the counter.

Place both kinds of chips in the microwave in a heat safe bow and heat in 20 second increments until completely melted.

Stir well to combine.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Pour pretzels into a bowl of melted chocolate and stir gently until all pretzels are completely coated.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Encourage your child to build a bird’s nest by creating a base of a few flat pretzels and then stacking to build up the sides into a cup shaped bird’s nest.

We found this recipe made about 4 good sized nests.

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

Add a few m & ms as eggs to the nest.

Let the nests sit until the chocolate has hardened, about an hour or so if your kitchen is not warm.

You can also harden it quicker by placing them in the fridge for a bit.

Once your nest has solidified you can enjoy eating it!

Free Bird Unit Study and Lapbook And Fun Edible Bird Nests

6 CommentsFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: birdjournal, birds, cardinal bird, elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, lapbook, lapbooking, lapbookresources, lapbooks, life science, science

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

December 30, 2022 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a fun post about Daniel Boone explorer and adventurer. Today, we’re focused on a black bear unit study and making some fun edible bear poop. You’ll love my unit study and other ideas on my page Daniel Boone – North American Explorer and Best Homeschool Unit Studies.

If you are studying Daniel Boone, you should definitely spend some time learning zoology.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

And focus ton he animals that would have frequented the woods he hunted.

For instance, learn about fox, beaver, deer, wild turkey, and today’s study black bears.

I have a fun filled hands-on list of amazing resources for a bear unit study and a deliciously gross treat to kick it off.

I have rarely met a kid who doesn’t love gross potty humor.

Besides, this craft is a fun introduction to learn a few facts about bears.

So, we’ve created an edible pile of yummy gooey bear poop

8 Species of Bear in the World

But before that I am going to load you up with books, games, and activities to make it a wildly fun bear unit study.

Did you know that there are 8 species of bear in the world?

  1. American Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
  2. Asian Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)
  3. Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
  4. Giant Panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca)
  5. Polar Bear (Ursus maritimus)
  6. Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus)
  7. Spectacled Bear (Tremarctos ornatus)
  8. Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)

Also, focus on the black bear, which is probably the most common type for Daniel Boone to have hunted with his gun “Old Tick Licker”.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

However, comparison is also a great way to learn about a topic as well.

Daniel Boone Killed a Bear

Have your child research some of the following questions:

  • What is the largest species of bear? (Answer: Kodiak Bears)
  • Is a koala actually a bear? (Answer: No. They are marsupials)
  • Which state has the most bears? ( Answer: Alaska)
  • Why do bears hibernate? (Answer: Hibernation is a voluntary state that animals enter to reduce their exposure to winter elements, conserve energy, and when food is scarce.)
  • What is the average lifespan of a bear? (Answer: 10-20 years and some as long as 20)
  • How far away can a black bear smell? (Answer: 1 mile)
  • What are the 3 main subspecies of brown bear? (Answer: California Grizzly, Kodiak, and Grizzly.)

Furthermore, share one of the stories about Daniel Boone and bears.

Boon killed a bar on (this) tree in the year 1760.

More than a hundred and thirty years ago, he cut these words on a beech-tree, still standing in Eastern Tennessee,—”D. Boon killed a bar on (this) tree in the year 1760.”

You will see if you examine the tree, on which the words can still be read, that Boone could not spell very well; but he could what was considered more important then and that was to shoot to kill.

The tree stood on the banks of Boone’s Creek, near Jonesboro, Washington County, Tennessee.

Now, let’s look at a few more facts about black bears.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Black Bear Facts

Next, learn some fun facts about black bears.

  • Black bears have 42 teeth.
  • American black bears are omnivores, with their diets varying greatly depending on season and location.
  • Bears can see very well and in color.
  • Black bears can run up to 30-40 miles per hour.
  • They are most active in the morning and early evening.

  • Depending on where they live, bears eat grasses, nuts, berries, salmon, small rodents, and calves.
  • Having short retractable claws makes black bears excellent climbers.
  • The Latin name for black bears is Ursus americanus.
  • Regarding size, black bears can be 2 to 3 feet high at the shoulders and males weight 150 to 300 pounds.
  • Black bears are normally solitary animals except moms with cubs.

Furthermore, here are some videos.

  • Black Bear Family’s Epic Fight For Survival (Bear Documentary) YouTube.
  • 5 FACTS | Black Bears (True Facts) YouTube.
  • The American Black Bear: Everything You Need To Know! 
  • Black Bears – Yosemite Nature Notes 

More Daniel Boone Resources

Look at some other fun resources.

  • Daniel Boone Activities Cooking Easy and Delicious Johnny Cakes on the Trail
  • Daniel Boone Exploration DIY Easy Compass Activity and Survival Ideas
  • Amazing Daniel Boone Explorer Lapbook and Fun Hands-on Unit Study

Additionally, here are some books and activities to round out your study.

Black Bear Unit Study Resources

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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!

Now, let’s make a fun hands-on activity that all your kids are sure to love.

Edible Bear Poop (aka Scat)

Let’s make the pile of bear poop to make your lesson memorable.

You will need:

  • 10 large marshmallows
  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 Tablespoons hot cocoa
  • 1 Tablespoon chocolate chips, butterscotch, or white chocolate
  • 1 ½ cups dry ingredients- cereal, nuts, raisins, coconut, etc.
Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

I used raisin brain and some peanuts mixed in for mine, but this is easy to adapt to whatever things you have on hand.

Directions:

Lay out a sheet of parchment paper on the counter.

Place butter and marshmallows in a large bowl and heat in the microwave in 30 second increments until completely melted.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Mix in chocolate chips.

Stir in dry ingredients until well mixed.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

Plop onto parchment paper into large piles (makes about 2 good sized piles).

Allow to set up for about 1 hour.

Daniel Boone Explorer Black Bear Unit Study and Fun Edible Bear Poop

2 CommentsFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: american history, bears, DanielBoone, early American history, hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history, history resources, homeschoolhistory, life science, science

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science – Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

December 22, 2022 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Homeschool kindergarten life science is one of the most fun sciences to teach. Grab my other kindergarten tips on my kindergarten homeschool curriculum page.

Too, with a fun nature tree study you don’t need expensive equipment or curriculum.

Add a few interesting books, a fun item or two. a backyard or a great tree filled park.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

From books to videos, I’m sharing some of my favorite resources for introducing simple botany lessons to your preschooler or kindergarteners day.

Books are always the best place to start with any unit study whether you purchase them or grab a few from the local library.

Books about Trees

Look at these beautiful books for young learners.

9 Tree Books & Resources for Kids Who Love Reading and Being Read To

You'll love using one of these books as a science reference or to use for art to inspire life science lessons.

Celebritrees: Historic & Famous Trees of the World

Some trees have lived many lifetimes, standing as silent witnesses to history. Some are remarkable for their age and stature; others for their usefulness. A bristlecone pine tree in California has outlived man by almost 4,000 years; a baobab tree in Australia served as a prison for Aboriginal prisoners at the turn of the twentieth century; and a major oak in England was used as a hiding place for Robin Hood and his men (or so the story goes…).

The fourteen trees in this book have earned the title "Celebritrees" for their global fame and significance. Both in fact and in legend, these fascinating trees remind us not only how much pleasure trees bring, but what they can tell us about history.

The Busy Tree

Spectacular illustrations rendered in oil paint, and a rhyming text that describes a tree’s activities from its roots to its branches, introduce young readers to the amazing activities that go on in a tree. Acorns nibbled by chipmunks, ants scurrying across a trunk, a spider spinning a web, leaves “breathing out air for all to breathe in”—everything adds up to a “busy tree” for all to “come and see.”

The Tree Book for Kids and Their Grown-Ups

This is a fantastic reference book to have on hand for tree studies.

It has great illustrations and covers everything from how a tree “eats and drinks” to types of trees, seeds, how they change in the seasons, why we need them and more

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

Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world.

Trees, Leaves & Bark (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. 

Tree Full of Wonder: An educational, rhyming book about magic of trees for children

Tree Full of Wonder is a vibrant, rhyming, educational and unique picture book showing the unbreakable bond between people and trees. For children ages 3-8. Kids will fall in love with nature and will become Protectors of the Trees.

The Magic and Mystery of Trees (The Magic and Mystery of Nature)

From the highest branch and leaf down to the complex “wood wide web” of roots, it’s no wonder every part of a tree plays an important role in its own growth and the habitat of the whole forest or woodland. The Magic & Mystery of Trees is a nature book that takes children on a fascinating journey of exploration, showing them just how special these mighty organisms are.

Figurines of Pine, Elm, Juniper, Monkey Puzzle, Topiary, Petticoat, Aspen, Two Maples

Learn and Play: These figurines provide a fun and educational way to learn about different tree species, promoting environmental awareness and appreciation.

Fandex Family Field Guides: Trees

Bringing the world of TREES to your fingertips, FANDEX presents a foolproof field guide. Four visual keys--die-cut leaf, bark pattern, flower, nut or seed, and photo of the full tree--plus descriptions of habitat and more combine to give a complete picture of North America's forest and backyard trees.

In addition, TREES is a cultural history--of the mighty White Oak, California Redwood, Aillanthus, the tree that grows in Brooklyn, and the stately White Ash, as important for the bows of early Native Americans as for the baseball bats of today.

However, the best part of any science for young children are the hands-on activities.

And children this age learn best through hands-on activities.

Hand-on Activities for a Tree Unit Study

Investigate, touch, experiment, draw, and play your way through learning.

First, study each of the trees parts. Study the leaves, their shape, color, and size, use an app or book to help you identify the tree.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Second, investigate the rings on a stump or cut of wood.

Then talk about how the rings indicate how old a tree is and every knot and scar in it tells a story of fires, storms, etc.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Look at what is growing on it.

Next, check out the different types of bark, peek in knot holes, and let them touch and investigate every part they can.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Third, create a science shelf in your home on a designated shelf, coffee table, or even a little wooden crate.

Make it a place your child can store his collections of leaves, pinecones, birds’ nests, and any other items of interest he finds on nature walks or in the yard.

More Homeschool Science K – 2 Ideas

  • Homeschool Science Ideas for K – 2
  • BEST Free Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum With A Gentle Approach (List)
  • 18 Kindergarten Science Homeschool Curriculum For Active Kids
  • 10 Affordable and Complete Homeschool Kindergarten Curriculum
  • Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science – Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Fifth, make this Hands on Literature Nature Study Simple Tree Craft

Sixth, create a leaf collection book to gather specimens.

Seventh, Safari Ltd. Toob Trees are the perfect size for little hands and have a variety of uses that make them worth the investment.

They can be used along with blocks and cars in small world play, to create a themed sensory bin, or in a little diorama to give it some dimension.

On a rainy day when you can’t make it outdoors, research the type of trees each one is and learn about it.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Eighth, work in some math by measuring the diameter of smaller trees with a flexible measuring tape.

Too, sort sticks and pinecones into sizes or measure them with a ruler.

Further, use acorns and leaves as counters and manipulatives for simple math problems.

Lastly, make a leaf rubbing by placing leaves under thin copy paper.

Rubbing the side of the crayon across it to bring out the detail for the drawing.

Also, this can be done also do this on the bark of the tree as well.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

In addition to this, add videos to your learning day.

Historic Trees Nature Study

However, include your older kids too when you’re doing this kindergarten life science lesson.

Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study

I have this fun and free unit study Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study

Kindergarten Life Science Videos

Not only can videos help a child learn a topic you may be nervous about teaching, but it can give you 10 minutes to work on something else. Your child gains independence.

  • Life as a Tree -What Can Rings Tell us
  • All About Trees
  • Parts of a Tree
  • Why Do We Need Trees
  • All About Oak Trees
  • Why do Tree Leaves Change Color

As well here are some questions to help you teach kindergarten life science.

Because kids are always full of questions, a good place to start with a unit study is ask them a lot of questions like

  • For example, what kind of tree is it. Use your books, apps, and google to help you figure it out.
  • What do the seeds look like? Are they acorns, pinecones, a pit, a pod, husk, wings, or seed inside a fruit?
Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Then, what grows on it?

Moss, leaves, fungi, fruit and what kind of things are on the tree including its own parts as well as those that attach themselves to it, why do they do that?

Is it a good thing or bad? Find out together.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Another one is who lives in it.

A tree study can easily take a lot of rabbit holes learning about the birds, bugs, and other creatures that make trees their home.

Ask your child who lives in a tree and let them dictate a list to you, seeing their words written down is a powerful language learning tool.

Lastly, what do we get from trees.

This is another important question that you can ask your child and write down their answers.

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

Paper, wood, apples, bananas, nuts, gum, wax, and dye just to name a few things. 

Draw a tree on a piece of paper or better yet let them draw it and write down your child’s answers all around it.

Moreover, look at some more tips for homeschooling kindergarten. What do you think? Ready to give this lesson a try.

Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum And Crafts

  • 40 Awesome Earth Science Movies for Kindergarten
  • Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity
  • Native American Activities For Kindergarten Create A Fun Cradleboard Craft
  • Rainforest Science Activities For Kindergarten Amazing and Fun Living Terrarium
  • Pond Life for Kindergarten Activity Build a Fun Beaver Dam
  • Easy and Fun Pine Cone Snowy Owl Winter Craft for Kindergarten
  • 4 Fun and Engaging Bat Activities for Kindergarten
  • Native American Crafts for Kindergarten How to Make a Kids Pinch Pot
  • 10 Best Homeschool Phonics Curriculum For Kindergarten
  • 15 Fun Resources For History for Kindergarten Homeschool
  • 19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten
  • Rainforest Crafts for Kindergarten: Make an Easy Paper Plate Monkey
  • How to Create the Best Homeschool Schedule for Kindergarten (free printable)
  • 60 Favorite Top Homeschooling Materials for Kindergarten
  • 10 Affordable and Complete Homeschool Kindergarten Curriculum
  • How to Effortlessly Blend Kindergarten Homeschool Subjects & Life
  • BEST Free Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum With A Gentle Approach (List)
  • Delightful Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum Which Promote a Love of Learning

Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science - Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study

2 CommentsFiled Under: Teach Kindergarten Tagged With: earth science, earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, kindergarten, life science, nature, nature journaling, nature study, science, trees

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

December 13, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free horse unit study for your horse loving kids. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more ideas.

If you have a horse loving middle school kid, I have a collection of resources for you.

I’ve herded up (corny pun intended) enough amazing resources to put together a fun and full horse unit study that will knock their saddle off.

You don’t have to have horses to have a horse lover on your hands, there is still plenty they can learn even if they can’t get out and ride. 

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

Choose a few items from each category to celebrate December 13th which is National Day of the Horse.

Or enjoy them in an equine themed unit study.

While I did gear this unit to mostly middle schoolers I included a few resources that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Books about Horses

First look at one or more of these books which can easily be a spine.

9 Books and Resources for Horse Loving Kids

Whether you add a book or two to use as a spine for your study or just for fun, your horse loving kids will enjoy them.

Homeschooling With Horses

A Homeschooling Journal for Horse Lovers! 365 Lessons and Activities. This Journal has a special focus on learning through logic and creativity!! It also covers every required subject! Perfect for 2nd to 4th grade, but fun for all ages.

This is the perfect Fun-Schooling Journal for students who love horses!

There are 365 activities in this book, and you can require your student to use 1, 5 or 10 pages per day, along with 6 library books, and your favorite math, history and science curriculum. You are free to use it any way you wish. That is the joy of fun-schooling with Thinking Tree Books.

Knowing Horses: Q&As to Boost Your Equine IQ

Did you know that a miniature horse weighs just a few pounds, while a giant draft horse can weigh well over a ton? Or that from a standstill a mule can jump, kangaroo-like, more than five feet high?  With answers to hundreds of questions about behavior, physiology, training, and special breed characteristics, Knowing Horses has all your horse quandaries covered.

Horses: The Clearest Recognition Guide Available

This book is designed for all those who love horses. Tracing the evolution of equines, this guide also explains the difference between horses and ponies, looks at how different breeds evolved or were selectively developed, and examines equine anatomy and behavior. Packed with 250 vivid full-color photographs of more than 100 horse-breeds, it uses a systematic approach from Dorling Kindersley and the Smithsonian Institution to train readers of all experience levels to identify and appreciate the wide variety of horses in the world.

Farm Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of Country Life

Learn the difference between a farrow and a barrow, and what distinguishes a weanling from a yearling. Country and city mice alike will delight in Julia Rothman’s charming illustrated guide to the curious parts and pieces of rural living. Dissecting everything from the shapes of squash varieties to how a barn is constructed and what makes up a beehive to crop rotation patterns, Rothman gives a richly entertaining tour of the quirky details of country life. 

Horse Life: The Ultimate Guide to Caring for and Riding Horses for Kids

The complete beginner’s guide to horses and riding for kids 8 to 12

This ultimate guide to horses for kids teaches you all about the basics of equine care―from anatomy to housing to bathing and feeding. Whether you’re just starting out or already have a horse of your own, you’ll learn how to ride, how to stay safe around horses, and how to develop a healthy and friendly relationship with them.

Black Beauty

Black Beauty by Anna Sewell. Black Beauty is a perennial children's favourite, one which has never been out of print since its publication in 1877. It is a moralistic tale of the life of the horse related in the form of an autobiography, describing the world through the eyes of the creature. In taking this anthropomorphic approach, the author Anna Sewell broke new literary ground and her effective storytelling ability makes it very easy for the reader to accept the premise that a horse is recounting the exploits in the narrative. The gentle thoroughbred, Black Beauty, is raised with care and is treated well until a vicious groom injures him. The damaged horse is then sold to various masters at whose hands he experiences cruelty and neglect. After many unpleasant episodes, including one where he becomes a painfully overworked cab horse in London, Black Beauty finally canters towards a happy ending

Misty of Chincoteague

Marguerite Henry’s beloved story of a wild horse’s gentle colt—winner of a Newbery Honor!On the island of Chincoteague, off the coasts of Virginia and Maryland, lives a centuries-old band of wild ponies. Among them is the most mysterious of all, Phantom, a rarely-seen mare that eludes all efforts to capture her—that is, until a young boy and girl lay eyes on her and determine that they can’t live without her.

Breyer Freedom Series National Velvet Horse and Book Set

Horse and book set: National velvet is Enid Bagnold's unforgettable tale of a horse-loving girl with aspirations of jumping Glory. A story about perusing dreams and taking chances, National velvet follows the adventures of 14-year-old velvet Brown.

The Complete Horse Anatomy Colouring Workbook- Master Equine Anatomy By Colouring and Labeling

Whether you are a veterinary nurse or student preparing for an exam or just an ordinary horse lover seeking to learn more about this amazing domestic animal called ‘horse’ this colouring workbook is for YOU!

This book has been designed and structured to make you learn horse A&P easily and effortlessly. By colouring the images contained in this book, you will easily make visual associations with key terminologies and concepts.

Moreover include hands-on activities in your horse unit study.

Hands-on Activities about Horses

Include fun hands-on activities every chance you get for maximum impact.

When kids of any age are engaged and having fun with a subject, they love they will always learn more!

If you don’t have horses, sign up your child for horseback riding lessons in your area.

If horseback lessons are out of your budget or you just want to let your child work for it a little more, consider reaching out to a local barn and inquiring about work programs.

Sometimes they trade out manual labor (like mucking stalls and washing horses) for riding lessons.

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

Additionally, print this Free Horse Lapbook to offer a little structure to their lessons, learn about breeds, horse vocabulary, horse diet and more.

Here are a bunch of horse worksheets to print and work into your horse unit study for some writing practice.

Also, use How to Draw Horse. Even older children can benefit from drawing for developing fine motor skills and art appreciation.

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

Make this amazing Horse String art for an activity that will brighten up the walls.

Additionally, look at more information about this study guide.

ABOUT THE HORSE STUDY GUIDE

This printable packet is a 102 page printable pdf download.

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

Here are some of the topics included.

  • Equipment for horses
  • What is a horse
  • Horse Life Cycle
  • Caring for a horse
  • Parts of a saddle
  • Horses in history
  • Horses on the farm
  • Hooves
  • Wild horses
  • Pony vs horse
  • Donkey vs horse
  • Zebra vs horse
  • Arabian, Mustangs, Thoroughbreds, American Quarter, Appaloosa, American Paint, Clydesdale, Friesian, Morgan, Tennessee Walking, Shire, Percheron, Gypsy Vanner, Andalusian, and Shetland Pony Breed matching, sorting and matching activities
  • Horse quiz activity
  • Bingo activity
  • Name the horse activity
  • Anatomy of a horse hoof activity
  • Horse life cycle activity
  • Horse care matching
  • Parts of a saddle activity
  • Equipment I Spy activity

HOW TO GET THE HORSE PRINTABLE INFORMATION PACKET

You can get it now!

  • Dynamic and Amazing Horse Study Guide For Young Learners

    Dynamic and Amazing Horse Study Guide For Young Learners

    $5.95
    Add to cart

More Hands-on Horse Unit Study Resources

Then put together a Horse Jigsaw Puzzle over the course of your study.

The middle schooler that loves crafting will adore this Felt Horse Stuffie Craft.

Label the parts of a horse. You can use a Breyer or other horse figuring and sticky note strips to have your child label the various parts of a horse rather than just filling out a boring old worksheet.

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

This Pool Noodle Hobby Horse Craft is geared to young children but what about having your tween or teen make some to donate to a children’s hospital or women’s shelter as a community outreach project?

If you do have a horse, have a friend with one, or visit a farm or stables you can assign this How to Make Molasses Horse Treat recipe to include some cooking to the unit study.

MORE HANDS-ON HORSE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • 10 Homemade Horse Treat Ideas for Horse-Loving Kids & Carrot Apple Treat
  • How to Make a Trojan Horse Craft | Fascinating Trojan Horse History
  • Horse Study Guide For Kids Who Love Animals
  • Alphabet Letter H Handprint Craft For Fun Preschool Horse Study

Further, add games to your study.

Horse Themed Games

Games help important facts stick and can make a boring day come to life.

4 Horse Games

Themed games should be a required part of every theme in my opinion.

Horse-Opoly Board Game by Late For The Sky

HORSE-OPOLY is a property trading game based on our equine animal friends. It's a game that actually encourages horseplay!

Includes paper money and a game board

Fantasy Ranch Board Game

Take the reins at a real-life ranch and build your dream stable!

Quick and fun to learn with 6 levels of play for all ages

Fantasy ranch: ages 13+, play time 30-60 minutes

Horse Academy Path

Fun & Educational Toys: Horse Academy features 80 challenges for ages 7 – Adult.

Brain Games Build Skills: kids and adults can build upon their spatial insight, planning and problem solving skills while playing Horse Academy.

Puzzle Includes: Game board, Horse with Rider, jumping gates, booklet with 80 challenges.

Breyer Freedom Series (Classics) Running Wild 2 Horse Set |

2 Horse set includes a red roan Stallion, and his Chestnut Pinto foal.

Authenticity: Breyer horses are sculpted in every color and breed imaginable with unmatched realism. Breyer model horses, which begin as artist’s sculptures, are handcrafted and hand-painted with airbrushes and paintbrushes – a process which is still done by human hands, not machines. Even today, No two Breyer models are ever exactly alike!

Finally, look at these videos.

Free Horse Unit Study for Your Horse Loving Kids

Combine fact filled videos and movies about famous horses, inspired by real events or completely fictitious stories to your horse unit study to make it exciting and less like work while they learn.

  • Sea Biscuit
  • Horses! Learn about Horses for Children
  • Wild Hearts Can’t Be Broken
  • Black Beauty
  • Secretariat
  • Horse Facts for Kids

1 CommentFiled Under: My Unit Studies {Free Printables & Hands-on Ideas} Tagged With: earthscience, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, horse, life science, science, sciencecurriculum, unit studies, unit study, unit study approach

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

December 8, 2022 | 1 Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Growing a seed activity for kindergarten science is one of the easiest and delight science experiments with kids. Also, grab my other tips, ideas, and crafts for kindergarten on my page Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum.

A seed activity for kindergarten is a great way to introduce your child to life science.

For this science experiment, I wanted to keep it simple while also letting the kids fully see the seed as it sprouts.

Too, by not being hampered by soil or being tucked inside a paper towel your kids will be amazed at the growing stages.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

For this seed experiment we are going to investigate if seeds need darkness to sprout.

Begin by explaining that seeds need the proper temperature, moisture, air, and light conditions to germinate.

But they do not require being covered in soil.

Let’s investigate if the light or dark makes a difference. 

You can keep activities simple and still learn so much by investigating life around you with your child.

A Seed is Sleepy Activity

In addition, I based this experiment off the book A Seed is Sleepy.

Aa beautiful picture book that is a great science reference book for preschoolers to middle elementary students.

The illustrations are rich and the snippets of information it provides give a lot of great information for young learners.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Also, below you will see a list of some other books you can use as well

Books About Seeds for Kids Science

Even picture books can be used with older learners.

5 Fun Books About Seeds

Children of all ages love activities about seeds. Add a few of these books to your learning day or use as a unit study.

A Seed Is Sleepy: (Nature Books for Kids)

This gorgeous book from award winning artist Sylvia Long and author Dianna Hutts Aston offers children a beautiful and informative look at the intricate, complex, and often surprising world of seeds. Poetic in voice and elegant in design, the book introduces children to a fascinating array of seed and plant facts, making it perfect reading material at home or in the classroom.

Seeds Move!

Every seed, big or small, needs sunlight, water, and an uncrowded place to put down roots. But how do seeds get to the perfect place to grow? 

A Seed is the Start

Meet seeds that pop, hop, creep, and explode in this vividly illustrated introduction to the simplest concepts of botany. 

From Seed to Plant

With simple language and bright illustrations, non-fiction master Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the processes of pollination, seed formation, and germination.

Go Seed, Grow!

Through wind, drought, fire, and water, a seed can be one of the most tenacious miracles on the planet. A seed is life, and life always finds a way. Follow how a seed magically beats the odds time and time again, to transform the world. 

Then, look at more seed activities here or choose several and make it a great seed unit study.

Hands-on Seed Activities

  • Make Wildflower Seed Bombs to plant.
  • Plant a small  container with one or two seeds and track the plant’s growth once it bursts out of the soil.
  • Learn How to Easily Make Fun Seed Tape With Kids.
  • Check out this tutorial on How to Make a Fun Kids Root Viewer.
  • Have a Green Bean Investigation.
  • Figure out How to Easily Garden Plan With Kids Using LEGO to plot it out.   
  • Look at Easy Seed and Gardening Unit Study for Kids to get some more ideas.
  • Buy several packages of inexpensive seeds and let your child sort, compare, and investigate them. Research the types by looking in books or online to find out what each seed will become.
  • Another similar experiment to this one is testing what temperature seeds like best to grow in is found at What Temperature Do Seeds Like Best and
  • Try out the Do Seeds Need Their Coat Experiment.

You can also use the book to investigate other types of seeds besides fruit and vegetables.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Go on a nature walk and collect pinecones, acorns, seed pods, and flowers to investigate.

More Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum

Look at these other resources.

  • Native American Activities For Kindergarten Create A Fun Cradleboard Craft
  • Rainforest Science Activities For Kindergarten Amazing and Fun Living Terrarium
  • Pond Life for Kindergarten Activity Build a Fun Beaver Dam
  • Easy and Fun Pine Cone Snowy Owl Winter Craft for Kindergarten
  • 4 Fun and Engaging Bat Activities for Kindergarten
  • Native American Crafts for Kindergarten How to Make a Kids Pinch Pot
  • 10 Best Homeschool Phonics Curriculum For Kindergarten
  • 15 Fun Resources For History for Kindergarten Homeschool
  • 19 Fun Hands-on Rainforest Activities for Kindergarten
  • Rainforest Crafts for Kindergarten: Make an Easy Paper Plate Monkey
  • How to Create the Best Homeschool Schedule for Kindergarten (free printable)
  • 60 Favorite Top Homeschooling Materials for Kindergarten
  • 10 Affordable and Complete Homeschool Kindergarten Curriculum
  • How to Effortlessly Blend Kindergarten Homeschool Subjects & Life
  • BEST Free Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum With A Gentle Approach (List)
  • Delightful Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum Which Promote a Love of Learning

Then, look below at how to do this easy science activity.

Before you begin the experiment, have your child make a hypothesis as to what they think will happen?

Will both sprout? Which will sprout faster? 

If they can, write down their answers so they have the opportunity to see their words in print.

Let your child do as much of this as possible so they have ownership in the experiment.

Help your child create a small booklet by stapling together half sheets of paper.

For example, staple down one side to bind to record the different steps in the experiment with words or just their drawings.

Explain that you want to try and keep everything the same in the experiment except for the one thing which is light and dark so that your results are accurate.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Easy Grow a Seed Activity

You will need:

  • Seeds (radishes are a quick sprouting seed)
  • 2 containers
  • Black paper
  • Paper towels
  • Water

Directions:

Grab two of the same containers, whatever you have laying around will work, cleaned out yogurt containers, paper cups, etc.

Then, fold a paper towel so that it is small enough to fit in the bottom.

Soak the paper towel and place a few seeds on each damp paper towel in your cup. 

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Cover one cup completely with black construction paper.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Next, place both in a sunny window. Explain that you want to keep everything the same except for one.

Check both every 24 hours.

Usually at this time they are completely or almost dried out so you will need to rewet the paper towels. Take care not to disturb the seeds.

Here is what our experiment looked like at the start.

After 24 hours, there was really no difference yet in either cup.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

At 48 hours we could see a tiny sprout bursting out of the seeds which were covered with the dark paper but nothing on the one exposed to light.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

After 72 hours there is an obvious sprout from several seeds in the dark cup.

Also, at this point we noticed that one of the seeds in the cup which was covered finally started to germinate but just a tiny bit.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

Look how much has happened with the covered seeds after just 3 days.

It’s clear that seeds need the darkness to sprout.

Growing a Seed Activity For Kindergarten Science Kids Activity

After the experiment is done you can transplant your seedlings to soil for planting in the garden once they are large enough.

1 CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities, Teach Kindergarten Tagged With: book lists, crafts, earth science, earthscience, elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, kindergarten, life science, science

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