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Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

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

For today’s dynamic learning adventure, we are making a paper plate stingray to highlight its unique body and characteristics. Also, look at my Oceans Unit Study and Lapbook for more ocean ideas.

Stingrays are a type of fish that live in warm, shallow waters.

And they have flat diamond-shaped bodies with long, whip-like tails.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

If you have ever seen it in the ocean or an aquarium their bodies seem to effortlessly float gracefully through the water.

They use their large pectoral fins to propel themselves.

They flap their fins in a wave-like motion, starting at the head and moving down to the tail.

This creates a powerful thrust that allows them to move quickly and efficiently through the water.

While you are making your paper plate stingray there is no reason why you can’t learn more about them with facts, videos, and books.

And then use it as a path to more amazing paper plate ocean animals that I have rounded up for you.

OCEAN BOOKS FOR KIDS

Too, look at these fun ocean books to add to your home library.

16 Ocean Books for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Choose a few of these ocean themed books to go along with your study of the Oceans. Whether you're looking for a spine for a unit study or literature, you'll love this roundup.

The Burgess Seashore Book for Children in color

Join Danny Meadow Mouse, Jimmy Skunk, and Reddy Fox as they explore the seashore and take a closer look at the habits and habitats of the creatures they find. Discover the Seahorse, Shrimp, Crab, Anemone, Gull, and so many more.

The Burgess Seashore Book for Children is a wonderful way to introduce young ones to the fascinating world beneath us and is a perfect compliment to earlier books in this series, the Bird, Animal, and Flower books.

This edition is complete and unabridged with all of the beautiful illustrations by W.H. Southwick and George Sutton

Seaside Naturalist: Seaside Naturalist

Seaside Naturalist is an illustrated guide to marine plants and animals includes the characteristics of protozoa, arthropods, sponges, mollusks, reptiles, birds, fish, and mammals.

The Big Book of the Blue (The Big Book Series)

The book opens by explaining how different types of animals are able to breathe and survive underwater, and the different families to which they belong. Subsequent pages are dedicated to specific creatures, including sea turtles, whales, sharks, stingrays, and seahorses, and show varied life in specific habitats, such as a coral reef or deep sea bed. The Big Book of the Blue also explores the underwater world thematically, looking at animals in danger, learning how to spot creatures at the beach, and discovering how to do our part to save sea life. Beautiful and filled with fascinating facts, young, curious readers won’t be able to tear their eyes away from the page.

Scott O'Dell Set: Island of the Blue Dolphins + Zia

Island of the Blue Dolphins begins with a young girl named Karana who is living on the Island of the Blue Dolphins (fancy name, right?) with her younger brother, Ramo, and sister, Ulape. One day, a group of Russian hunters (Aleutians) land on the island to hunt for otter. This is when the trouble really begins.

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau (Underwater Picture Book for Kids)

Once upon a time in France, a baby was born under the summer sun. His parents named him Jacques. As he grew, Jacques fell in love with the sea. He dreamed of breathing beneath the waves and swimming as gracefully as a fish. In fact, he longed to become a manfish. Jacques Cousteau grew up to become a champion of the seas and one of the best-known oceanographers in the world. In this lovely biography, now in paperback, poetic text and gorgeous paintings come together to create a portrait of Cousteau that is as magical as it is inspiring.

Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas (Illustrated 1875 Edition):

A beautiful edition with 110 images from the 1875 English edition. Use Amazon's Look inside feature to compare this edition with others. You'll be impressed by the differences. Don't be fooled by other versions that have no illustrations or contain very small print. Reading our edition will make you feel that you are traveling the seas with Captain Nemo himself.

Swiss Family Robinson (Illustrated Classic): 200th Anniversary Collection

More than 100 original illustrations by Louis Rhead. You want to read this book with illustrations.

An introduction by W. D. Howells.

Nicely formatted text in an easy-to-read font.

A beautiful cover from the 1891 edition.

Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia

Embark on a captivating tour of the waters that cover 70 percent of our planet! See our oceans come to life in mind-blowing detail. This is the ultimate children’s visual encyclopedia about the awe-inspiring blue planet! 

Secrets of the Sea: The Story of Jeanne Power, Revolutionary Marine Scientist

How did a nineteenth-century dressmaker revolutionize science? Jeanne Power was creative: she wanted to learn about the creatures that swim beneath the ocean waves, so she built glass tanks and changed the way we study underwater life forever. Jeanne Power was groundbreaking: she solved mysteries of sea animals and published her findings at a time when few of women’s contributions to science were acknowledged. Jeanne Power was persistent: when records of her research were lost, she set to work repeating her studies. And when men tried to take credit for her achievements, she stood firm and insisted on the recognition due to her.

Ocean Anatomy: The Curious Parts & Pieces of the World under the Sea

Follow Rothman’s inquisitive mind and perceptive eye along shorelines, across the open ocean, and below the waves for an artistic exploration of the watery universe. Through her drawings, discover how the world’s oceans formed, why the sea is salty, and the forces behind oceanic phenomena such as rogue waves. Colorful anatomical profiles of sea creatures from crustacean to cetacean, surveys of seafaring vessels and lighthouses, and the impact of plastic and warming water temperatures are just part of this compendium of curiosities that will entertain and educate readers of all ages. 

The Fascinating Ocean Book for Kids: 500 Incredible Facts!

Do you know a kid who’s captivated by what goes on beneath the ocean’s surface? This amazing entry into ocean books for kids is packed with hundreds of incredible facts for hours of underwater exploration. Pages of full-color pictures feature life in and around the sea including fish, dolphins, and shipwrecks!

All About Bioluminescence: Deep Sea Animals

Dive into the mesmerizing world of bioluminescence with "All About Bioluminescence." In this captivating book, readers embark on a journey through the depths of the ocean to discover the extraordinary glow-in-the-dark creatures that inhabit its mysterious realm. From the enchanting sea angel to the infamous anglerfish, each page is filled with stunning illustrations and fascinating facts about these luminous beings.With a focus on deep-sea dwellers, readers will uncover the secrets behind bioluminescence and learn how these creatures use light to communicate, camouflage, and lure prey. But the adventure doesn't stop there! "All About Bioluminescence" also includes hands-on activities like a glow stick experiment, allowing readers to experience the magic of bioluminescence firsthand.

Treasure Island (Dover Thrift Editions: Classic Novels)

One of the most enduringly popular adventure tales, Treasure Island began in 1881 as a serialized adventure entitled "The Sea-Cook"in the periodical Young Folks. Completed during a stay at Davos, Switzerland, where Stevenson had gone for his health, it was published in 1883 in the form we know today.Set in the eighteenth century, Treasure Island spins a heady tale of piracy, a mysterious treasure map, and a host of sinister characters charged with diabolical intentions. Seen through the eyes of Jim Hawkins, the cabin boy of the Hispaniola, the action-packed adventure tells of a perilous sea journey across the Spanish Main, a mutiny led by the infamous Long John Silver, and a lethal scramble for buried treasure on an exotic isle.

Oceans and Seas!: With 25 Science Projects for Kids

In Oceans and Seas! With 25 Science Projects for Kids readers ages 7 though 10 dive into the underwater world of some of the most amazing landscapes on Earth. On this amazing underwater adventure, kids experience the ocean’s tropical reefs and spot crabs, sea sponges, and thousands of kinds of fish darting in its crags and folds. They’ll meet a giant squid with eyes the size of dinner plates and an mbrella-like bioluminescent jellyfish.

Discover the Oceans: The World's Largest Ecosystem (Discover Your World)

From both a historical and scientific point of view, above and below the surface, this engaging guide brings the world’s oceans to life through fun facts, illustrations, and in-depth information. Interactive activities appear throughout, ranging from making solar stills and simple fishing spears to experimenting with a homemade diving bell and figuring out how much water it really takes to survive. With the oceans being the least explored environment on Earth, this reference illuminates some of the most incredible and surprising plants and animals as well as how to survive and navigate these vast expanses.

Pagoo

An intricate study of tide pool life is presented in text and pictures through the story of Pagoo, a her-mit crab.

Also, look at some fun facts about stingrays.

STUPENDOUS STINGRAY FACTS

Some species of stingrays can grow to be very large. The giant oceanic manta ray can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh up to 3,000 pounds!

Stingrays use their tails to defend themselves from predators. The tail has a sharp, barbed stinger that can cause painful wounds, but it is also used to steer them through the water.

Stingrays are made of cartilage instead of bone and their bodies are very flexible.

They are carnivores and eat worms, mollusks, shrimp, crab, clams, oysters, mussels, small fish, and crustaceans

Stingrays are related to sharks and share many similar features; the biggest difference is that stingrays have their pectoral fins fused with their head.

There are many different types of rays including stingrays, electric rays, butterfly rays, round rays, manta rays, guitarfish and sawfish. There are about 220 different species all together.

Check out this Wild Kratts video, The Vanishing Stingray, to learn so much more about these fascinating ocean creatures.

If you are interested the resource shown here is The Big Book of Blue and contained a wonderful two page spread on our subject.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

I also want to share with you these plastic ocean animals that can be used to create sensory bins, trays, dioramas, or just to add a bit of the theme to your science shelf or in a basket to introduce the topic.

MORE OCEAN ANIMAL ACTIVITIES

  • Under the Sea Science Activities With Amazing Disappearing Octopus Ink
  • Exploring The Ocean With Ice Experiments: Simple Sea Animal Rescue
  • How To Mix Glow In The Dark Slime Ingredients To Make Awesome Ocean Slime
  • How to Make a Fun Paper Plate Fish | F is for Fish
Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

And look at these paperplate ocean animals.

ADORABLE PAPER PLATE OCEAN ANIMALS

  • Wow isn’t this Paper Plate Whale just amazing? I love the detail and uniqueness of this craft to show off a special feature.
  • You just have to include this cute Paper Plate Crab Craft into your paper plate ocean animal collection.
  • Make a Paper Plate Pufferfish to show off this amazing inflatable creature.
  • Combine two inexpensive craft supplies to create a Paper Plate & Bubble Wrap JellyFish Craft.
  • This Paper Plate Starfish is almost unrecognizable as a serviceable disposable plate, you could make it your own with patterns.
  • This Seahorse Paper Plate is absolutely adorable and looks like so much fun to make.

HOW TO MAKE A PAPER PLATE STINGRAY

You will need:

  • Craft glue or hot glue
  • A paper plate
  • A paper bowl
  • Scissors
  • Craft paints
  • Paintbrushes
Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

Begin by laying out two paper plates and drawing a stingray’s body on one, including the wings.  then use the second to create the long whiplike tail.

Be sure you leave the body big enough to fit the bowl.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

Cut out those outlines and glue the two pieces together with the tail at the back.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

Add the paper bowl on top, securing all the way around with glue. Trim the edges a bit if necessary.

Paint all over, covering both the plates and the bowl in your base color.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

Before the paint is completely dry you can come in with a second or even third color to add some detail to your stingray.

Crafty Ocean Adventures: How to Make a Paper Plate Stingray

We made a black stingray for our model like in our reference book.

Don’t forget to add some eyes.

Allow it to dry completely.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: crafts, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, life science, ocean, science

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

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

I have a fun way to explore the raspberry life cycle with exciting activities including a yummy raspberry muffin recipe and a couple of free life cycle pages.

Cooking is always a wonderful activity, whatever your topic is. 

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Not only are you teaching valuable life skills and spending time with your child as you prepare the recipe together.

Besides, cooking also helps develop reading skills, following directions, math, science, and nutrition as they make a simple recipe.

But we are not stopping with a recipe.

You will find facts to share and more activities like crafts, additional recipes, and even a body scrub to fill out your lesson further.

ABOUT THE RASPBERRY LIFE CYCLE

The first thing of course is following the life cycle of the raspberry.

The life cycle of a raspberry is a fascinating process that begins with a tiny seed.

The seed is planted in the spring, and it germinates and sprouts into a small plant.

Over the summer, the plant grows and produces leaves and flowers.

The flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects, and the fertilized flowers develop into raspberries.

The raspberries ripen in the fall, and they are ready to be eaten fresh or used in jams and pies.

After the raspberries are harvested, the plant dies back to the ground.

However, the roots survive the winter, and the plant will grow new shoots the following spring.

If you are curious about the resource you see pictured I used Food Anatomy which had a great spread on berries and other fruits that goes along well with my free printables.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Be sure to take some time to examine the fresh raspberries as well before you put them in the recipe.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Let’s learn more about the raspberry life cycle with exciting activities and facts.

RASPBERRY LIFE CYCLE FACTS

  1. Raspberries are a type of berry that grows on bushes, some berry types grow on trees, others on vines or little plants.
  2. In the United States about 90% of all raspberries that are sold come from Washington, California and Oregon.
  3. Raspberries are in the rose family, and they are usually red, but can also be black, gold, yellow, or purple.
  4. Raspberries are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.
  5. Raspberries can be eaten fresh, cooked, or processed into jams, jellies, pies, tarts, and other desserts. Raspberry leaves can be used to make tea.
  6. While raspberry bushes are native to Europe and Asia, they are now grown all over the world.
  7. They are made up of many tiny bead-like fruits called “drupelets” clustered around a center core. Each of these drupelets contains one seed, with an average raspberry bearing 100 to 120 seeds.

EXCITING RASPBERRY ACTIVITIES

Little fingerprints make the sweetest “I Love You Berry Much” Fingerprint Raspberry Card Idea that can be sent to grandma or anyone else.

Make a Raspberry Puffy Paint recipe using fresh berries then create a masterpiece.

Check out my Fun American Civil War Crafts for Kids and Make Raspberry Jam and learn more cooking skills.

Create a Raspberry Dye Recipe for coloring playdough that is chemical free and a fun way to learn about another use for the fruit.

Kids love fruit roll-ups, but you’re going to really love this natural homemade fruit roll-up recipe that you can make with any type of berry Raspberry Fruit Roll Ups.

Here you will find a step by step lesson on How to Draw a Raspberry for kids.

Teens will love creating their own homemade Raspberry Lemonade Sugar Scrub to use or to gift to friends and family.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Also, look at more berry hands-on activities for kids.

BERRY ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

  • Free Printable Strawberry Notebooking Pages
  • How To Make An Easy Ink pot & Quill Pen with Berry Ink
  • How To Create A Sweet Strawberry Letter S Handprint Craft
  • Fun American Civil War Crafts for Kids and Make Raspberry Jam
  • Life Cycle Of a Strawberry Facts and Fun Hand Sewn Felt Strawberry
  • Strawberry Unit Study

Finally, look at how to make easy raspberry muffins.

EASY RASPBERRY MUFFIN RECIPE

First, you can use either fresh or frozen strawberries for this recipe, you do not need to thaw the frozen berries first.

You can also freeze your muffins and thaw them for later if you like.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups of whole purpose flour
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup white granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¾ cup milk
  • ¼ cup+ 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs, large
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups raspberries
Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Coat a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray and preheat the oven to 350.

Combine all dry ingredients in a bow l- flour, sugars, baking powder, and salt, until well mixed. 

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

In a separate bowl combine all the wet ingredients including eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Stir wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Finally, fold in raspberries very gently with a spatula until they are throughout the batter, if you mix too much they will fall apart in the batter.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Transfer the batter to muffin tin and bake for 25 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Take a toothpick and insert into the center if it comes out clean, they are ready.

Allow to cool, if you can wait, and then enjoy your homemade raspberry muffins. 

HOW TO GET THE FREE RASPBERRY LIFE CYCLE WORKSHEETS

Finally, I have two free sets of raspberry life cycle notebooking pages.

Explore the Amazing Raspberry Life Cycle with Exciting Activities & Free Worksheets

Like most of my printables, I give the same printable blank and 1 form with answers.

The first worksheet is the raspberry life cycle page and the second one describes 3 fruit classifications.

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

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

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

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, life cycle, life science, raspberries, science

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

October 16, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Upcycle a 2-liter bottle into a cute and silly emperor penguin craft with just a few more art supply items and a little bit of time.

Take your kids on a delightful journey of creativity with plenty of penguin crafts.

Too, I have facts and movies that I have gathered up. 

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

These ideas cover kids of all ages and can be used for a family emperor penguin unit study.

Emperor penguins are easily identifiable.

Their size alone sets them apart from other penguins.

And their yellow is lighter than that of the similar king penguin, and their beak is shorter and points downward.

From adorable paper penguins to whimsical pom-pom penguin poppers there are Emperor Penguin craft ideas to appeal to everyone.

PENGUIN BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at these fun books about penguins.

I add living books when I can find them.

11 Penguin Books & Resources for Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Add some of these books and resources about penguins to your learning day.

Penguin's Way

With a new children’s book imprint, the Bodleian Library brings beloved classics back into print, beginning with a beautiful storybook about the life of a fascinating Antarctic species. Originally published in 1962, Penguin’s Way by Johanna Johnston tells the surprising story of these creatures, complete with colorful artwork by award-winning illustrator Leonard Weisgard. In Penguin’s Way, a playful colony of emperor penguins lives on the edge of a faraway secret sea. During the summers, the penguins are content to fish and swim in the icy waters. But, when the seasons change, they must travel more than one hundred miles to the snowy lands surrounding the South Pole. All across the snow plain, the penguins sing songs to welcome newly hatched chicks into the world, but how will the fluffy newborns survive the freezing winter? Few things pique children’s curiosity about the world around them better than a good book. Brought back for a new generation of young readers, Penguin’s Way offers a fun and creative introduction to these fascinating animals.

Mr. Popper's Penguins: All-Time Popular Children Book

Charming Characters: Meet the endearing Mr. Popper and his comical penguins, each with their distinct personalities and quirks, creating a delightful and memorable cast of characters.

Whimsical Adventures: Follow Mr. Popper and his penguins on a series of whimsical escapades, as they navigate unexpected challenges and create joyous chaos in their small town.

Heartwarming Message: Experience the heartwarming message of friendship, family, and the importance of embracing the unexpected, as Mr. Popper's life is transformed by the presence of his unusual feathered companions.

Whiteblack the Penguin Sees the World

Whiteblack the Penguin is worried. He has run out of stories for his radio show, a dire situation for the Chief Storyteller of Penguinland. So Whiteblack decides to travel in search of new tales to share. The result is a journey that spans the globe and not only introduces the precocious penguin to a host of colorful characters but teaches him about the power of friendship and what it means to be a hero. Originally created in 1937, while the Reys lived in Paris, this delightful story is being published for the first time, and is sure to enchant readers young and old. From the creators of Curious George, Whiteblack the Penguin Sees The World is a timeless tale with all the hilarity and childlike sense of adventure characteristic of the Reys’ previous work.

The Emperor's Egg: Read and Wonder

Can you imagine spending the winter outdoors in Antarctica without anything to eat? That’s just what the male Emperor penguin does. While his mate is off swimming and catching loads of fish, he stands around in the freezing cold with an egg on his feet for two whole months, keeping it warm and waiting for it to hatch. Welcome to the story of the world’s most devoted dad!

Penguins!: Strange and Wonderful

A new edition to the acclaimed Strange and Wonderful series. The seventeen species of penguins come in all sizes and are fascinating in many other ways. The little blue penguin, the smallest, stands about sixteen inches high, and the emperor penguin, the largest, stands almost four feet tall. Some penguins are named for how they look, such as the black-footed penguin, while others are named for where they live, such as the Galapagos penguin. Laurence Pringle's informative book, with stunning illustrations by Meryl Henderson, introduces young readers to the life and behavior of one of nature's most remarkable birds.

12PCS Realistic Penguin Figurines

This penguin figures set was made by hand painted with high realistically detailed appearance, cute face and childish eyes. Their uniquely molded textures and richly painted details make the animals vivid. And all the animal figures stands up very well, they do not fall over. Children would like to spend more time to observe and play with them.

The Great Penguin Rescue: Saving the African Penguins

African penguins waddle around nesting colonies in lower numbers than ever before. Despite South African government efforts to protect the penguin colonies and their ocean fish supply, young penguins still struggle to survive. Fuzzy chicks waiting for food in open nests may overheat in the sun or become prey. Others simply may not get enough food to survive on their own once their parents leave. But new conservation methods, including rescuing and hand-feeding vulnerable chicks, are giving experts hope. Can volunteers and scientists help save Africa's only penguins before it's too late?

March of the Penguins

This documentary chronicles the heroic and harrowing journey that emperor penguins make amid subfreezing temperatures and violent snowstorms at the South Pole in order to mate.

365 Penguins (Reissue)

A family finds a penguin mysteriously delivered to their door every day for a year. At first they’re cute, but with every passing day, the penguins pile up—along with the family’s problems. Feeding, cleaning, and housing the penguins becomes a monumental task. They’re noisy and smelly, and they always hog the bathroom! And who on earth is sending these kwak-ing critters? Bright, striking illustrations with lots of opportunity for counting (and lots of laughs), 365 Penguins has become a perennial wintertime favorite.

Penguin: A Season in the Life of the Adélie Penguin

Beautiful, full-color photographs and an engaging first-person narrative introduce young readers to an Adelie penguin family's first view of the harsh, wild Antarctic environment.

Penguins!

An illustrated introduction to those wonderful waddling water birds!Living only in the southern hemisphere, there are seventeen different kinds of penguins.  With bright watercolor illustrations and kid-friendly language, Gail Gibbons introduces these black and white birds, describing where and how they live, what they eat, and how they hatch their young.   An exploration of the egg-laying and chick-raising habits of the emperor penguin is also included, describing how these large penguins take care of their babies in extremely cold temperatures, working together to look after one large egg at a time. Readers will also learn about threats to penguin populations, and what conservation efforts have been made to help preserve them.  A collection of penguin facts is also included.

Next, look at these facts about penguins.

5 EMPEROR PENGUIN FACTS

  1. Emperor penguins are the tallest and heaviest of all the penguins, at heights of 36” -48” and weighing up to 99 lbs.
  2. They can dive deeper than any other bird, including other penguins, down to 1,800 feet and can hold their breath for almost 30 minutes.
  3. Emperor Penguins do not hop rather they have a slow waddling walk, moving at about 1.7 mph. They have also been known to toboggan by sliding on their bellies across the ice.
  4. Females, after laying a single egg in April or May transfer care to the male who carefully balances the egg on his feet for 65 – 75 days to keep it warm off the cold ground in a special adapted brood pouch.
  5. Colonies of emperor penguin are made up of 5,000 or more adults and chicks who work together to huddle for warmth. They are tightly packed together and take turns shuffling around to be on the outside for a bit in the harsh cold.
Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Also, you’ll love these emperor penguin crafts, activities, and activities.

PENGUIN CRAFTS, RESOURCES, AND ACTIVITIES

For little ones, find out How to Make an Egg Carton Bobblehead Penguin Preschool Craft to teach them about these tuxedo clad birds.

Watch The March of The Penguins to follow the amazing journey of Emperor Penguins in subfreezing temperatures in the South Pole.

Learn How to Make an Easy Antarctica Diorama With Your Kids that is a fresh new take on an older idea.

If you are going to dive right into a penguin unit why not make it a Penguin Party? Really make it special with themed snacks and decor to kick it off.

Penguin Poppers would make a really fun indoor or outdoor activity to get the kids up and moving during the unit.

Where is Antarctica is an engaging book from the Where is series that will hold your child’s interest while giving them many great facts about life on this icy desert.

Give this hands on Slippery Penguins on Ice Experiment a try to learn how penguins can move across the ice quickly and easily.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

EMPEROR PENGUIN CRAFT

Now go gather your supplies and get ready to dive into a world of penguins and fun that turns your child into a penguin expert before you know it.

You will need:

  • Empty 2-liter bottle
  • sandpaper
  • Black craft paint
  • Black permanent marker
  • Black craft felt
  • White craft felt
  • Yellow craft felt
  • 2 black beads
  • Hot glue gun/sticks
Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

First, peel the label off the bottle and wash out the inside well.

Rinse it and set upside down to drain.

You can paint the outside, but I found it much easier and cleaner to pour a bunch of black paint inside the bottle.

Then, replace the cap, and let your child shake it until the inside is completely coated in paint.

This also lessens the length of time needed to wait for drying times in between colors.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Turn the bottle upside down to allow excess to drip out until it has slowed to almost a stop.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Replace the cap and color it black with a sharpie.

From black felt cut a pair of three toed feet, two wings ¾ the length of the bottle, a beak, a large circle with a beak (an oversized coffee cup is the perfect size to trace), and just the beak.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKE YOUR OWN PENGUIN

From the white cut a large oval piece for the belly that reaches from nearly neck to the base.

Cut two small yellow stripes to give our Emperor penguin the distinguishing yellow collar.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Hot glue the white belly onto your penguin, apply the glue to the felt, not the plastic bottle or it will melt.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Add the wings to the sides and the feet to the base with glue.

Hot glue the beak piece to the beak portion of the circle to make it a little firmer.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Gather up your black scraps and stuff the small bits into a larger scrap.

Then ball it up and hot glue onto the cap to give the head some shape.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Press the circle portion over the scrap ball you put on the cap.

And hot glue into place all around with the beak facing forward. Bend down slightly at the end.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Add two black beads on either side for the eyes.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

Finally add the yellow collar and attach securely.

Emperor Penguin Craft: Step-by-Step Guide To Make Your Own Penguin

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How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

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

I cannot wait to show you these easy Lego builds for kids. Also, grab more ideas on my page Dinosaur Unit Study.

I start with a roundup of adorable things I found and finish with a T-Rex and Stegosaurus LEGO tutorial.

Too, we do have more than one set of the creative boxes in our LEGO collection.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

However, I did use only the bricks and studs that are available inside of these most basic boxes.

Your dinosaurs may look a little different if you are limited on pieces and you may have more of a mix of colors.

Too, while your child is crafting grab a book or two to read aloud.

It’s the best way to learn while doing easy Lego builds for kids.

I prefer living books when I can find them.

BOOKS ABOUT DINOSAURS FOR KIDS

15 Books for Kids Crazy About Fossils and Dinosaurs

Your dinosaur loving kids will love some of these books and resources for a fun dinosaur unit study.

Fossils Tell of Long Ago

What is a fossil? Sometimes it's the imprint of an ancient leaf in a rock. Or it could be the skeleton of a dinosaur that has turned to stone. With clear prose and beautifully detailed illustrations, award-winning author and illustrator Aliki describes the different ways fossils are formed and what they tell us about life on Earth long ago.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It includes a find out more section with a glossary and activity guide so kids can create their own fossils for someone to find a million years from now.

Dinosaurs! (New & Updated)

Gail Gibbons presents the most recent and up-to-date theories about the history of dinosaurs and dinosaur discoveries. She discusses the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods and the non-bird dinosaurs that lived during each time. Each dinosaur is explored in just the right amount of detail for young paleontologists, as this book brings these magnificent creatures to life again

Digging Up Dinosaurs (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

How did those enormous dinosaur skeletons get inside the museum? Beloved author-illustrator Aliki’s simple, engaging text and colorful artwork bring the long-extinct creatures to life for young dinosaur enthusiasts.

Long ago, dinosaurs ruled the Earth. Then, suddenly, they died out. For thousands of years, no one knew these giant creatures had ever existed. Then people began finding fossils—bones and teeth and footprints that had turned to stone. Today, teams of experts work together to dig dinosaur fossils out of the ground, bone by fragile bone

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?

A playful peek into the homes of dinosaur babies and their parents at bedtime!How do dinosaurs say good night?Brimming with humor and familiar good-night antics, here is a playful peek into the homes of dinosaur children and their parents at bedtime. Perfect for sharing and reading aloud, this is one nighttime book your own little dinosaur will want to read again and again.

Dinosaur Roar!

A celebratory edition of this much loved classic picture book, now twenty-five years old. This rollicking rhyming text is a joy to read aloud, and the charming and colourful pictures will appeal to the very youngest dinosaur fans. Originally published in 1994, Dinosaur Roar! by Henrietta and Paul Stickland is now seen as a modern classic, a book that every preschool child should have.In the back of the book is a wonderful pull-out poster showing the dinosaur characters.The book carries the endorsement of the Earth Sciences Department at the Natural History Museum.

Dinosaur Bones

With a lively rhyming text and vibrant paper collage illustrations, author-artist Bob Barner shakes the dust off the dinosaur bones found in museums and reminds us that they once belonged to
living, breathing creatures. Filled with fun dinosaur facts (a T. Rex skull can weigh up to 750 pounds!) and an informational "Dinometer," Dinosaur Bones is sure to make young dinosaur enthusiasts roar with delight.

Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs

A long time ago there were dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails. Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Bryon Barton brings to life a unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once upon a time.

A long time ago there was dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails.Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Byron Barton brings to life unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once up ona time.

Here We Go Digging for Dinosaur Bones

This STEM-friendly musical fossil dig will have dinosaur lovers singing along as they learn the science behind paleontology.

I Dreamt I Was a Dinosaur

If you could be a dinosaur, which would you be? Would you roar like the ferocious T-Rex? Or soar overhead like the pterodactyl? In this playful early-learning book, Stella Blackstone s lyrical, rhyming text takes readers on an unforgettable Jurassic journey, while fabric artist Clare Beaton recreates the prehistoric world of dinosaurs using a colorful array of felt, sequins, beads and buttons.

T Is for Terrible: A Picture Book

I am Tyrannosaurus Rex.

I am a dinosaur,

otherwise known as

a terrible lizard.

Tyrannosaurus rex is a terrible dinosaur; of this, everyone is certain. But is this dinosaur really so terrible? He IS very big and very hungry. True, he might even eat his neighbors for lunch. But from his point of view, he can't help it. After all, he's not a vegetarian . . .

The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek

Meet George. He's strong, as a giant dinosaur should be, strong enough to wreck a plane! (Of course he thinks it's his old enemy, the flying Pteranodon.) He's loyal. He'll do anything to help Joan and Joey save their mother's ranch at Cricket Creek, even chase a bank robber. He's shy. He's so shy he gets Joan and Joey into hilarious, dinosaur sized trouble!

The Magic School Bus in the Time of Dinosaurs

The classroom is decorated as Dinosaur Land, but Ms. Frizzle-inspired by an archeological dig-craves a more authentic experience. The Magic School Bus turns into a time machine and transports the class back millions of years to an adventure where they learn about dinosaurs, their habitats and diets, and even a Maiasaura nesting ground.

Fossils (A True Book: Earth Science)

Fossils are one of the most important tools we have for learning about long-extinct wildlife.

A True Book: Earth Science series presents fascinating facts and fun activities that will engage the budding earth scientist, while exploring the fields of geology, meteorology, ecology, and more. This series includes an age appropriate (grades 3-5) introduction to curriculum-relevant subjects and a robust resource section that encourages independent study. In the 4.6 billion years since Earth was formed, many plant and animal species have come and gone. Readers will discover how fossils are formed, how paleontologists search for them, and what kinds of information they can provide.

Paleontological Fossils Sample- Paleontology Trilobite Fossil, Scientific Amber Specimen

A box of ten fossils: A box of this paleontological fossil sample contains ten of fossils, including sea clam fossils, trilobites, ichthyodonts, porphyrites, copal amber, graptolites, nematodes, phylloceras, corals, and spirals. Fossil specimen of algae.

Ancient Fossils TOOB - Figurines: Dino Footprint, Giant Crab, Ammonite, Raptor Claw, T-Rex Tooth, Frog Skeleton, Sea Scorpion & More

Step into Prehistory: This Toob contains 10 expertly hand-painted mini figurines of ancient fossils, including a Dinosaur Footprint, Giant Crab, Ammonite, Raptor Claw, Fossilized Frog, Trilobite, T-Rex Tooth, Fossilized Fish, Dinosaur Skin, and a Sea Scorpion.

First let’s learn a bit about the real-life counterparts of our little brick buddies.

T.REX & STEGOSAURUS DINOSAURS FACTS

T. Rex 
Name: Comes from Greek and Latin words meaning ‘Tyrant Lizard King’.
Eating Habit: Carnivore
Size: 20 ft tall to almost 40’ long.

Believed to have been in the Cretaceous Period 65 million years ago, in what’s now the USA and Canada. Fun Fact: T. Rex are thought to have had a brain twice as big as those of the other big carnivorous dinosaurs.

Stegosaurus
Name: Stegosaurus is from the Greek for “roof lizard”, named so after its bony plates.
Eating Habit:Herbivore
Size: 21-30 feet long.

Stegosaurus  was thought to have lived about 145 million years ago during the Jurassic period in what’s now known as Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.

Fun Fact: Stegosaurus is the official state dinosaur for Colorado

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

And then look at these other dinosaur activities.

MORE DINOSAUR FUN

  • Fun Facts About Mold Fossils & 4 Types of Fossil Activities For Kids
  • Make Fun Edible Fossils and Free Magic School Bus Fossils Worksheet
  • Make your own easy Cardboard Dinosaur Feet for some fun dramatic play time.
  • Geronimo Stilton The Journey Through Time Fun Easy No Sew Dinosaur Mat
  • Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)
  • For a great sensory activity while you teach your child about various hypotheses for extinction this Erupting Dinosaur Extinction Slime looks like fun.

I also have a few must-have Lego pieces I want to share with you to start your LEGO collection.

First off this LEGO Creative Box is a must have for boys or girls.

They can be used for so much more than just building although that alone is worth the investment.

Next, if you don’t already have one a LEGO Baseplate for your builds is needed to create a foundation that is also moveable.

Once you begin to grow past one or two standard boxes you will want to grab something like these LEGO Organizers to help keep everything together and sorted a bit.

We are building this ferocious T.Rex

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

And a cute little Stegosaurus

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Finally, look at how to make this T.Rex and Stegosaurus dinosaurs.

HOW TO MAKE LEGO T.REX AND STEGOSAURUS DINOSAURS

When building your dinosaurs do not get stuck so much on the exact size of the bricks.

For instance, if it calls for one 2×4 you can use two 2x2s instead just getting the same width and length out of any combination of bricks or plates.

Also sloped pieces can be rounded or sharp edged to help you create your masterpiece.

T.Rex:

  • 2 1×8 plates
  • 1-1 x 6 plate
  • 1-2 x 6 brick
  • 2-2×4 bricks
  • 2-2×3 bricks
  • 2-1×2 plates
  • 2-2×2 sloped
  • 2-2×4 bricks
  • 2-2×3 sloped
  • 3-1×2 sloped
  • 2 -knob studs
  • 4-nose cones
  • 2 studs
  • 2 eyes
  • 2-2×2 roof tile 
How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

First, begin by placing a 2×6 stud on top of the 2×6 sloped pieces to create the base of the body.

This will work with either the rounded ones or the sharp angle ones.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Next, center the 2-1×8 plates on the body to create the tail. Place 1×2 plates on either side.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Put a 2×4 brick on the tail closest to the body and round it off with a sloped 2×2 brick.

This will make it heavier on the back end but by the time we are done building it will be leveled off.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Center a 2×2 on the body and place 1×6 plates on either side, these are the arms.

EASY LEGO BUILDS FOR KIDS

Add 1×2 sloped bricks to the top of each plate for hands.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Place a 2×6 on the center to build up the body and create a neck.

Finally, it is time to build the ferocious head.

Use 2 of the sloped roof tiles as a base, these are the ones that look halfway upside down. Place 4 nose cones on one, and a 2×2 brick on the other.

Put a sloped 2×2 over the ‘teeth’ with knob studs directly behind it for the eyes, which you can then pop into place.

Finish the head with 3 sloped 1×3’s to round it off a bit.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Press the head into place on top of the body.

Stegosaurus:

  • 2-2×8 plates
  • 1-2×2 plate
  • 2-1×2 bricks
  • 1-2 x 3 bricks
  • 4-2×2 bricks
  • 6-2×4 bricks
  • 4-2×2 sloped studs
  • 1-knob stud
  • 2 sloped studs
  • 2 eye studs
  • Assorted slope studs
How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Take 2-2×8 plates and place them end to end. Top with a 1×2 at one end and then continue as follows- 4-2×4’s placed horizontally over the bricks and any combination of bricks vertically to create a tail that is 2×8 studs long.

Bottom view

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

top view

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

To create the spikes along the back and tail we used various heights and sizes of sloped bricks like so.

Place 2×2 sloped bricks on 2×2 bricks to make legs and feet.

Now, quick and easy build a head starting by placing eyes on the knob studs.

How to Make T.Rex & Stegosaurus Dinosaurs Easy LEGO Builds For Kids

Put them on top of a 2×4 brick, adding a sloped piece for the nose, and a flat tile to finish off the head.

Pop the head onto the front of your stegosaurus.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: dinosaurs, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, LEGO, life science, science

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

October 8, 2024 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Thunderstorm activities for kindergarten will make a big impact if they are fun and hands on to get and keep your child’s interest. Also, grab my other tips, ideas, and crafts for kindergarten on my page Kindergarten Homeschool Curriculum.

Today I have a fun puffy fingerpaint thunderstorm sensory activity.

Your child will love this along with plenty of other resources like books, videos, and more hands-on activities.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Thunderstorms? Those massive, dark clouds aren’t just your average weather event; they are a display of the wild energy that’s going on up in our atmosphere.

And thunderstorms come with lightning, thunder, and sometimes even hail, which can be scary, but they’re also cool.

For our curious learners we’re going to break down how thunderstorms form and what they include through fun activities.

BOOKS ABOUT WEATHER FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these weather books for kids

13 Weather Resources and Books For Kids Who Love to Read and Be Read To

Grab some of these fantastic weather resources and books to engage your youngest learners about what is weather.

What Will the Weather Be?

Will it be warm or cold? Should we wear shorts or pants? Shoes or rain boots? What Will the Weather Be? uses colorful, simple diagrams to explain meteorology in a fun, engaging way. Perfect for young scientists and budding meteorologists, this bestseller features clear explanations of everyday weather instruments like thermometers and barometers.

TEDCO-Pet Tornado-Spin and Watch

  • Nature's most destructive force can be observed and enjoyed in the palm of your hand.
  • Hold Pet Tornado from top or bottom and rotate wrist form amazing funnel clouds.

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.

Water Is Water: A Book About the Water Cycle

Drip. Sip. Pour me a cup. Water is water unless...it heats up.Whirl. Swirl. Watch it curl by. Steam is steam unless...it cools high.This spare, poetic picture book follows a group of kids as they move through all the different phases of the water cycle. From rain to fog to snow to mist, talented author Miranda Paul and the always remarkable Jason Chin (Redwoods, Coral Reefs, Island, Gravity) combine to create a beautiful and informative journey in this innovative nonfiction picture book that will leave you thirsty for more.

Book of Storms: Hurricanes, Twisters and Squalls

What triggers a tornado? What can you see in the eye of a hurricane? What's the difference between a thunderbolt and a thunderclap? Popular author and artist Eric Sloane proves why weather is something best understood by seeing it. His illustrated book shows weather "happening." In fact, there's not a sunny page in it—nothing but cyclonic storms, whirlwinds, waterspouts, lightning bolts, and other fascinating, weather-related topics. More than seventy pages of drawings and diagrams make the weather come alive in a book that examines everything from storm mechanisms and cold fronts to the birth of a thunderhead.

Eric Sloane's Weather Book

"Amateur weather forecasters (which includes just about everyone) will find this volume an informative and entertaining account of the why and how of the weather." -- The Nation In simple language, Eric Sloane explains the whys and wherefores of weather and weather forecasting -- and does it in a style that's universally appealing. With humor and common sense shining through in a book that's also lively and informative, Sloane shows readers how to predict the weather by "reading" such natural phenomena as winds, skies, and animal sounds. This beautifully illustrated and practical treasure trove of climate lore will enlighten outdoorsmen, farmers, sailors, and anyone else who has ever wondered what a large halo around the moon means, why birds "sit it out" before a storm, and whether or not to take an umbrella when leaving the house.

Thunderstorm

A midwestern summer thunderstorm as seen through the eyes of artist/etcher Arthur Geisert, and depicted in unprecedented detail, beautifully hand-colored.

Thunderstorm follows the course of a storm through midwestern farm country minute-by-minute, hour-by-hour, from late morning into late afternoon. As always with Arthur Geisert, it is a meticulously executed and visually stunning piece of work. Other than the timeline that runs along the bottom border of the illustrations, there is no text, and the illustrations are continuous.

Through keen observation, Geisert beautifully captures the nuances and details of a midwestern thunderstorm, from the ever-changing color of the sky, to the actions of the human inhabitants, to the reactions of the natural world to the wind and rain. America's heartland is somewhat unfamiliar territory in the realm of picture books, but in Thunderstorm, Geisert has provided readers with valuable, breathtaking insight into one of its most natural occurrences.

The Magic School Bus Kicks Up A Storm: A Book About Weather

A book about weather, from the animated television series on the Learning Channel.

Rain, Hail, Sleet & Snow

Rain, Hail, Sleet & Snow was first published by Nancy Larrick in 1961 and served as an introduction to elementary students about how weather conditions are formed. The book has been out of print for quite some time and modern books do not offer this age group such an approachable discussion of how inclement weather is formed and the conditions that effect it. While it does not discuss the most modern tools of meteorology, it does mention the use of airplanes, satellites, and other tools of measurement. Other topics besides rain, hail, sleet and snow that are discussed are tornadoes and hurricanes, lightning and thunder, fog, humidity, water vapor, condensation, ice crystals, and the different types of clouds.

Look at the Sky and Tell the Weather

A delightful blend of serious meteorology and beautiful illustrations, this informative book displays the many talents of Eric Sloane. A writer, landscape painter, weather forecaster, and authority on early American history, Sloane takes readers with him on a voyage of discovery as he traces a single air mass from the Canadian Rockies to northern New England. A vivid narrative and the author's own pen-and-ink sketches describe the progress of the air mass over America, and tell about its encounters with other elements of weather systems and with Americans from a variety of backgrounds.

The Secret World of Weather: How to Read Signs in Every Cloud, Breeze, Hill, Street, Plant, Animal, and Dewdrop

In this eye-opening trove of outdoor clues, acclaimed natural navigator Tristan Gooley shows us how, by "reading" nature as he does, you'll not only detect what the weather is doing (and predict what's coming), you'll enter a secret wonderland of sights and sounds you've never noticed before. Discover the ways that weather can reveal a hidden world with every step you take—through the woods or down a city street.

  • A turbulent sky with mismatched clouds predicts bad weather.
  • Snowflakes get smaller as the temperature drops.
  • Dry weather and morning frost follow a clear moon.
  • Gliding birds mean stable air and thus, fair weather.
  • Honeybees don't leave their hives below 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Crickets chirp faster as the temperature rises.
  • Pine cones close their scales in high humidity.
  • Perching birds face into the wind.
  • Cows don't lie down before rain, but they do head home.

Weather Words and What They Mean

Simple, kid-friendly text explains the origins of fog, clouds, frost, thunderstorms, snow, fronts, hurricanes, reinforcing the explanations with clear, well-labeled drawings and diagrams. Newly revised, this edition of Weather Words and What They Mean has been vetted by an expert from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association. Best of all, the book features a fun list of weird weather facts!

The Wonder Of Thunder: Lessons From A Thunderstorm

o you know a child who is scared or feels uneasy during thunderstorms?

The Wonder of Thunder is a lighthearted children’s rhyming picture book that helps tame fears while highlighting all the wondrous things thunderstorms can do.

Children will adore Sally Storm, a lovable character who excitedly shares all the good she can do as she swirls and tumbles overhead. This early learning picture book introduces the topic of storms, thunder, lightning and rain in a fun and non-threatening way.

Colourful and captivating illustrations pull children into the story and hold their attention through to the end, where Sally shares more fun facts about thunderstorms and engages children through direct questions.

Next, here is some information to share with your kindergartener as you learn about the power and beauty of thunderstorms.

THUNDERSTORM FACTS FOR KIDS

What is a thunderstorm?

A thunderstorm is a storm with lightning and thunder. It is caused by the buildup of static electricity in the atmosphere.

How do thunderstorms form?

Thunderstorms form when there is a lot of warm, moist air near the ground. This air rises and cools, causing water vapor to condense into clouds.

As the clouds grow taller, they become unstable and the updrafts and downdrafts in the cloud become stronger. This causes the cloud to become electrified.

What is lightning?

Lightning is a bolt of electricity that travels between two objects with different electrical charges. In a thunderstorm, lightning can travel between the clouds, between the clouds and the ground, or even between the ground and the clouds.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

What is thunder?

Thunder is the sound that is made by the shockwave that is created by lightning. When lightning travels through the air, it heats the air around it.

 This causes the air to expand rapidly, creating a shockwave that travels through the air at the speed of sound.

MORE KINDERGARTEN HOMESCHOOL CURRICULUM ACTIVITIES

  • How to Create the Perfect Kindergarten Homeschool Set Up
  • Best Kindergarten Health Curriculum Easy Ideas For Activities
  • 8 Best Summer Unit Studies For Kindergarten | Free Ant Study
  • 10 Kindergarten Sensory Bin Ideas | How To Make A Summer Sensory Bin
  • How to Create a Kindergarten Math Game With Popsicle Sticks
  • 8 Stellaluna Kindergarten Activities | How To Make A Coffee Filter Bat Craft
  • First Day Of Kindergarten Homeschool Ideas | Free Scavenger Hunt Cards
  • Math Made Easy: Engaging Addition For Kindergarten Dice Activities
  • T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten
  • Fun and Easy Tissue Paper Crafts for Kindergarten
  • Fun Kindergarten History Activities: How to Create Royal Peg Dolls
  • Enhance Your Language Arts Kindergarten Curriculum with Free Flip Books

THUNDERSTORM RESOURCES & ACTIVITIES

Thunderstorms are fascinating and educational experiences for children of all ages.

Here are a wonderful variety of activities that you can do with your child to help them learn more about thunderstorms.

Spell out weather words like ‘thunderstorm’ with letter tiles and have your child identify each letter and the sound it makes.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Make a Fun Felt Weather Chart & Free The Magic School Bus Kicks Up A Storm Worksheet to keep track of the weather every day including thunderstorms.

Dig deeper into the science of thunderstorms with this What Causes a Thunderstorm Science Activity.

Little busy hands will love exploring this Thunderstorm Play Dough as you read about how and why they happen.

Watch Thunder and Lightning on YouTube and discuss the different aspects of thunderstorms that are covered.

Create a Lightning Storm in a Cup Luminary to demonstrate the lightning and make a cute little night light that your child can put on their bedside table.

Observe a thunderstorm from a safe distance. Explain to your child what is happening during the storm, such as the formation of clouds, the lightning and thunder, and the rain.

Point out different types of clouds, such as cumulonimbus clouds, which are associated with thunderstorms.

Discuss the different stages of a thunderstorm, such as the developing stage, the mature stage, and the dissipating stage. Count the seconds between the lightning and thunder to determine how far away it is (then divide by 5) if its 20 seconds the lightning is 4 miles away.

Building a Thunderstorm Sensory Bin makes an amazing activity while your child is learning through listening.

Learn about thunderstorms with books, videos, and flashcards like this eboo set.

It’s a favorite that we reach for time and again with nature topics.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

THUNDERSTORM ACTIVITIES FOR KINDERGARTEN – FINGER PAINTING

You will need:

  • Craft paints
  • Paper plate
  • Sensitive shave cream
  • Art paper
T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

First, make a small pile of shaving cream for every color you wish to use.

Add washable craft paint to each pile, good options for a thunderstorm are white, gray, black, and of course yellow for the lightning.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Stir each one together well to combine paint and shaving cream.

Set out thick paper with your DIY finger paints.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Encourage your child to use their hands (or a brush) to swirl, smash, swirl, and squish paint all over the paper to create a dark chaotic stormy sky.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Let them layer colors and vary the thickness, exploring with the paint.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Of course, they will want to add some zig zagging lightning streaking through the sky.

T Is For Simple Fun Thunderstorm Activities For Kindergarten

Allow the painting to dry and make another if they like. Perhaps create a different weather fingerpainting to compare the two.

Leave a CommentFiled Under: How To - - - Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, kindergarten, science, thunderstorms, weather

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