science

Explore The Great Outdoors: Nature STEM Activities For Homeschool Freebie

February 27, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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I have a free printable with fun nature stem activities for homeschool. Besides, too much indoor activity can be the cause of burnout.

And nature stem learning combines creativity, curiosity and hands-on for a science study that is hard to beat.

When studying nature is confined to worksheets, it can feel abstract. However when kids interact with bird feeders, trees and track moon phases they are actively engaging in learning.

Explore The Great Outdoors: Nature STEM Activities For Homeschool Freebie

This freebie helps you turn everyday outdoor moments into meaningful STEM learning.

And instead of memorizing facts, children practice recording results observing, predicting and testing.

One of my favorite reasons for sharing this STEM in the wild freebie is that you can use it for multiple ages to teach at once.

NATURE STUDY BOOKS FOR KIDS

Next, here are some fun books to use with your kids and to add to your home library.

10 Nature Study Books for Young Kids

Add these fun books to your home library or to introduce nature study to your little learners.

Crow Not Crow

New York Times bestselling children's author and beloved birder, Jane Yolen, and her son, Adam Stemple, have teamed up to write this gentle tale of a father introducing his daughter to the joys of bird-watching using the "Crow, not Crow" method for distinguishing birds. Elizabeth Dulemba's delightfully warm illustrations bring the story to life.

Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids: 50 Creative Projects to Spark Curiosity in the Outdoors

Explore the great outdoors with this hands-on activity book for ages 6 to 12!

Track, explore, discover, and create! This incredible choice in nature books for kids is full of activities you can bring on your adventures through your backyard, the park, the woods, and beyond. No matter the weather or where you live, Exploring Nature Activity Book for Kids shows you how todive into fun and games like crafting bird feeders out of fruit, pressing flowers, or building a sundial to tell the time. Get ready to get your hands dirty and your imagination revving as you get active outside.

Owl Moon

CALDECOTT MEDAL WINNER • A soothing, poetic picture book that lovingly depicts the relationship of a young child and her father alongside humankind’s relationship to the natural world. A verbal and visual treasure for the whole family!I had been waitingto go Owling with Pafor a long, long time.Late one winter night, a little girl and her father go owling. The trees stand still as statues and the world is silent as a dream. Whoo-whoo-whoo, the father calls to the mysterious nighttime bird.But there is no answer.Wordlessly, the two walk along, for when you go owling, you don't need words. You don't need anything but hope. Sometimes, there isn't an owl, but sometimes, there is.

Out of School and Into Nature: The Anna Comstock Story

This picture book biography examines the life and career of naturalist and artist Anna Comstock (1854-1930), who defied social conventions and pursued the study of science. From the time she was a young girl, Anna Comstock was fascinated by the natural world. She loved exploring outdoors, examining wildlife and learning nature's secrets. From watching the teamwork of marching ants to following the constellations in the sky, Anna observed it all. And her interest only increased as she grew older and went to college at Cornell University. There she continued her studies, pushing back against those social conventions that implied science was a man's pursuit. Eventually Anna became known as a nature expert, pioneering a movement to encourage schools to conduct science and nature classes for children outdoors, thereby increasing students' interest in nature. In following her passion, this remarkable woman blazed a trail for female scientists today.

THE BURGESS ANIMAL BOOK FOR CHILDREN: Original Color Illustrated Edition

Discover the timeless magic of nature through Peter Rabbit's eyes in this enchanting educational adventure! The Burgess Animal Book for Children combines storytelling and learning in a way that has captivated young minds for generations.

This stunning edition features:- 54 vibrant color and 19 sepia-tone illustrations that bring the animal kingdom to life- Original unabridged text that has educated and entertained children since 1920- Chapter quizzes to reinforce learning- Bonus online quiz access for interactive engagement

Perfect for:- Young nature enthusiasts ages 6-12- Homeschool families seeking an illustrated North American wildlife book for their engaging science curriculum- Parents who want to combine entertainment with education

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

See the world in a whole new way with acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman's beautiful nature guide book.Nature Anatomy combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world. Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.Also available in Julia Rothman's Anatomy series – Nature Anatomy Notebook, Ocean Anatomy, Food Anatomy,Farm Anatomy, and Wildlife Anatomy.

From Seed to Plant

Flowers, trees, fruits—plants are all around us, but where do they come from? With simple language and bright illustrations, non-fiction master Gail Gibbons introduces young readers to the processes of pollination, seed formation, and germination. Important vocabulary is reinforced with accessible explanation and colorful, clear diagrams showing the parts of plants, the wide variety of seeds, and how they grow. The book includes instructions for a seed-growing project, and a page of interesting facts about plants, seeds, and flowers. A nonfiction classic, and a perfect companion for early science lessons and curious young gardeners.

Fun With Nature (Take Along Guides)

Fun with Nature helps kids discover the incredible world in their backyards. It is a compilation of seven bestselling titles: Caterpillars, Bugs and Butterflies; Frogs, Toads and Turtles; Snakes, Salamanders and Lizards; Rabbits, Squirrels and Chipmunks; Tracks, Scats and Signs; and Trees, Leaves and Bark. This entertaining book is filled with fascinating facts and awesome activities.

The Keeper of Wild Words: (Nature for Kids, Exploring Nature with Children)

A touching tale of a grandmother and her granddaughter exploring and cherishing the natural world.Words, the woods, and the world illuminate this quest to save the most important pieces of our language—by saving the very things they stand for.When Mimi finds out her favorite words—simple words, like apricot, blackberry, buttercup—are disappearing from the English language, she elects her granddaughter Brook as their Keeper. And did you know? The only way to save words is to know them.• With its focus on the power of language and social change, The Keeper of Wild Words is ideal for educators and librarians as well as young readers.• For any child who longs to get outside and learn more about nature and the environment• A loving portrait of the special relationship that grandparents have with their grandchildren

Wildlife Anatomy: The Curious Lives & Features of Wild Animals around the World

Julia Rothman's series of Anatomy books are beloved by children and adults alike. In Wildlife Anatomy, Rothman captures the excitement and distinctive attributes of wild animals around the world. The book is packed with hundreds of her charming, original illustrations, detailing the unique features of animals of the rainforest, desert, grasslands, oceans, and much more. From lions, bears, and zebras to monkeys, mongoose, bats, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and much more, Rothman's visual guide covers all the key features, right down to the anatomy of a lion's claw and a wild horse's hoof. All the illustrations are accompanied by labels, intriguing facts, and identifying details, such as: When is a Panther Not a Panther? and What Makes Aardvarks So Odd? Rothman's characteristic combination of curiosity and an artist's eye makes this wildlife treasury rich and full, and promises new discoveries every time it's opened.

Then, look at more stem inspired activities.

STEM ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

Also, look at more nature activities.

NATURE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS

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

HOW TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE NATURE POWERED PROJECTS FOR LEARNING

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

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

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

Learning Through Art: The Life Cycle Of A Sea Star Stages & Survival

February 23, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

How fun would it be if your child could be Learning Through Art: The Life Cycle Of A Sea Star? And isn’t it wonderful that they can? Also, look at my page Oceans Unit Study and Lapbook for more hands-on ideas. And look at my page Free Summer Unit Study For Kids and Fun Starfish Craft.

Brittle starfish are some of the most fascinating creatures living beneath the ocean’s surface. With their long, flexible arms and quick, wriggling movements, they look quite different from the classic five-armed sea stars most people imagine.

Creating a clay brittle starfish is a wonderful hands-on way to explore marine life, learn new science facts, and spark interest in the hidden world of the sea.

Learning Through Art: The Life Cycle Of A Sea Star Stages & Survival

Despite the name “starfish,” brittle stars are not actually fish. They belong to a group of marine animals called echinoderms, which also includes sea stars, sea urchins, and sand dollars. Brittle stars are closely related to sea stars but have important differences that make them unique.

The most noticeable feature of a brittle star is its body shape. Instead of having thick arms that blend into the central body like a sea star, brittle stars have:

A small, round central disk
Five long, thin, snake-like arms
Flexible joints that allow fast movement

These arms are what give brittle stars their name. They can break off easily when attacked by predators, but the amazing part is that brittle stars can regrow lost arms over time.

BOOKS ABOUT ECHINODERMS FOR KIDS

First, look at some books about this group of echinoderms.

We prefer living books when we can find them then add reference books.

11 Books About Fascinating Echinoderms Marine Animals

This group of animals sea stars, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, star fish and crinoids. All of these are marine animals with radial symmetry in their body shapes.

What's in the Tide Pool?

What would you see if you sat at the edge of a tidepool, looked into the water and watched the changes taking place in this little world? What life would you discover there? In a charming hand-sized book, Anne Hunter illustrates the creatures that live in and around a tidepool, and describes each animal's characteristics and habits. The gorgeous artwork and simple sense of wonder will inspire children to explore their environment. Fans of Hunter’s two books, WHAT'S IN THE POND? and WHAT'S UNDER THE LOG? will want to add this new title to their collection.

Sand Dollars by the Seashore

Sand Dollars by the Seashore is a charming and educational poem for children about the wonders of the beach and the importance of respecting nature. It encourages young readers to explore the shoreline and discover its beauty while learning the difference between living sand dollars and cherishing their shell souvenirs as a special gift from the sea. Perfect for a day at the beach or a bedtime read, Sand Dollars by the Seashore is sure to delight and inspire young imaginations.

Sea Stars (Ocean Life Up Close: Blastoff Readers, Level 3)

Did you know that sea stars pump water instead of blood through their systems? Although commonly called starfish, these life forms are not fish! Instead, they are part of a group containing other animals like sea urchins and sand dollars. Sea stars are hardy animals that can grow new limbs and open clam shells. In this interesting title, students will enjoy learning more about these shining ocean stars!

Sea Urchins (Ocean Life Up Close)

Sea urchins look like fireworks exploding underwater. The spines that create their unusual appearance do have a purpose: they protect the tiny animals from dangerous predators. In this title, sea urchins of all shapes, sizes, and colors are on display for early readers!

The Burgess Seashore Book for Children (Dover Children's Classics)

Familiar burgess characters Danny Meadow Mouse, Jimmy Skunk, and Reddy Fox explore every nook and cranny of the shoreline and learn first hand about the habits and habitats of spider crabs, sea cucumbers, sand eels, and that strangest of little fishes — the sea horse.Veteran storyteller and nature lover Thornton W. Burgess provides fascinating information to young readers as he describes coastal areas along the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way he weaves the area's many life forms into an entertaining tale that's also an illustrated guide to the seashore's natural history.

The Sand Dollar

While walking on the shore of the Sea of Cortez a man has a remarkable dialog with the sea. Using the naturally occurring dove like structures found in sand dollars, the sea relates its past wars with the sun, the wind, the mountains, and the moon and addresses its ongoing war with man. The sea's explanation of the need for the fifth dove is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression with readers of all ages.

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

Following the wild success of The Big Book of Bugs and The Big Book of Beasts, The Big Book of the Blue is the third installment in Yuval Zommer’s beloved series. Alongside everything the young oceanographer needs to know, Zommer’s charming illustrations bring to life some of the slipperiest, scaliest, strangest, and most monstrous underwater animals.

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.

Oceanarium: Welcome to the Museum

This stunning new offering from the Welcome to the Museum series guides readers around the world's oceans, from sandy shorelines to the darkest depths. Learn about the ocean’s most fascinating animals, including giant whale sharks, tiny tropical fish, and majestic manatees, among many others. With expert text by marine biologist Loveday Trinick and stunning illustrations by Teagan White, travel the world from frozen Arctic seas to shimmering coral reefs, and learn why it is so important that we protect our oceans.

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 Master of Tides

In the city of Tarian, where mastery over the tides is essential for the city’s very existence, an unforeseen and unthinkable thing has happened. The Master of Tides—Tarian’s guardian for over seven hundred years—has died, and the Sand Coin, the object that gives the Master his power, has vanished into the shadows.

With the Sand Coin missing and Tarian under threat from an impending cataclysmic event, Cora, a spirited orphan girl laboring in the city’s Water Works, embarks on a desperate quest to save her city.

Along with Will, her charming yet unwelcome companion, Cora discovers that to find the Sand Coin, she must join the magical Wandering Circus. But who in this mysterious and dangerous troupe of young performers can she trust? And how far will Cora have to travel with the circus in order to bring the Sand Coin home?

Starfish (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science)

Starfish have arms, but no legs. They have feet, but no toes. Starfish aren't fish, but they are living animals. In this Let's-Read-and-Find-Out classic, learn how starfish move, eat, and grow.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It's a Level 1 Let's-Read-and-Find-Out, which means the book explores introductory concepts perfect for children in the primary grades. The 100+ titles in this leading nonfiction series are:

hands-on and visual

Here are some fun and surprising facts to include in your lesson or activity.

AMAZING BRITTLE STARFISH FACTS FOR KIDS

There are over 2,000 known species of brittle stars.
Some species can glow in the dark using bioluminescence to confuse predators.
Brittle stars do not have brains or eyes, but they can still sense light and movement.
Their mouths are located on the underside of the central disk.
They use tiny tube feet mainly for sensing and feeding, not walking.
A few species can reproduce by splitting in half and regrowing the missing parts.

finally, I like to finish this section with a few words of spacing before moving to the next H2

THE LIFE CYCLE OF A BRITTLE STAR

One of the most interesting parts of studying brittle stars is learning how they grow and reproduce.

Most brittle stars reproduce by spawning, which means males and females release eggs and sperm into the water. Fertilized eggs develop into tiny floating larvae that drift in the ocean currents. During this stage, they look nothing like adult brittle stars.

After a period of growth, the larvae settle onto the sea floor and begin transforming into their familiar five-armed shape. As they mature, their arms lengthen, and their central disk becomes more defined.

Eventually, they grow into fully developed adult brittle stars capable of reproducing on their own.

Some species use an additional method called fission, where the brittle star splits its body in half. Each half then regrows the missing parts, creating two complete animals.

This unusual ability makes brittle stars especially fascinating for learning about animal life cycles and regeneration.

THE LIFE OF THE BRITTLE SEA STAR

Brittle stars live in oceans all over the world, from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea floor. Many species hide under rocks, inside coral reefs, or buried in sand and mud.

They usually stay hidden during the day and come out at night to search for food.

And they are widespread and brittle stars play an important role in ocean ecosystems. They help clean the sea floor by eating leftover organic material, tiny plankton, and even small animals. In this way, they act like the ocean’s recyclers.

Unlike sea stars, which use tiny tube feet to crawl slowly, brittle stars move by swinging their arms in a rowing motion. This allows them to travel surprisingly fast across the sea floor.

Watching videos of brittle stars in motion can be inspiring when making a clay model. Their arms twist, curl, and bend in graceful curves, which you can try to capture in your sculpture.

Encouraging kids to shape each arm differently helps make the craft feel more lifelike.

Kids are often amazed that an animal without a brain can still move, sense danger, and regrow body parts. These facts make brittle stars a perfect topic for combining science and creativity.

Making a clay brittle starfish turns abstract science into something children can see and touch.

As you shape the central disk and roll out thin arms, talk about how real brittle stars use those arms to move and survive.

HANDS-ON STARFISH & ECHINODERM ACTIVITIES

Label the parts of the brittle star once the clay dries.
In this Free Summer Unit Study For Kids and Fun Starfish Craft you can craft a papier-mache common starfish.
Another version is this Salt Dough Starfish Kids Craft.
Write a short story from the perspective of a brittle star hiding on the sea floor.
Turn learning time into even more fun with themed games like this Escape from The Aquarium – Escape Room Game,
Spectacular Starfish Body Parts For Kids & Free Activity Set
Marine Science Experiments For High School Made Easy
Create Your Own Easy Sand Dollar Edible Beach Inspired Cookies
How To Make A Simple Sea Urchin Craft: Echinoderms For Kids
Fascinating Life Cycle Of A Sand Dollar & Hydro Dipped Craft

LEARNING THROUGH ART: BRITTLE SEA STAR

Look at some unique Brittle Sea Stars to decide on your design. We were inspired by the Serpent Starfish seen here. This type has longer, thinner arms than most Brittle Sea Stars and less pronounced tube feet.

You will need:

Air-dry clay
Craft paint
Paintbrush
Glass, tile or silicone mat to work on

First, roll clay into 5 small balls. You will want to work it for a few minutes first to soften the clay; this will not only make it easier to work with but will help it adhere to itself better as you connect the pieces.

Take one of the pieces and flatten it out, pinching around the sides to give it 5 rounded points.

Now roll out each of the other balls into long, thin arms, with a rounded point at each end.

Repeat until you have done all 5.

If they are too long, trim off the excess.

Lay your pieces on your surface-make sure it’s movable so you can set it aside while it dries. I like to use a glass cutting board.

Now, attach each arm to the points you made on the body and smooth them together so they are seamless by using a little water on the tip of your finger.

Run water with your finger over the entire thing if needed to smooth, shape, and join the parts together.

Allow to dry overnight, and if fully dry, paint on your first layer, let this dry completely.

Add detailed colors with a small brush.

Allow to dry and it’s ready for display.

4 Weeks Free Nautical Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

February 21, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a free nautical unit study today. Also, look at my page Best Homeschool Unit Studies for more homeschool unit studies.

This nautical unit will cover many topics from pirates, marine biology to ocean zones. A nautical unit study can include lessons and activities about the oceans, ships and navigation, exploration and trade, marine life and life at sea.

And we covered as many of those topics as we could.

4 Weeks Free Nautical Unit Study & Best Hands-on Ideas

I have broken down each week by core subject. This allows you to add ideas of activities for each day or to make it a week or 4 four week study.

And I have ideas for covering ocean, marine life and even pirates so you dive as deep as you like into this nautical study.

Too, we wanted to make this study about more than just ships and oceans but a way to cover many topics to explore.

NAUTICAL BOOKS FOR KIDS

First, look at some of these books to use as a spine or for read aloud.

Books for a Nautical Unit Study or Nautical Lessons

Grab one or two of these books about nautical life to add to your reading day.

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch: A Newbery Award Winner – An American Nautical Tale of Determination and Mathematical Brilliance

Readers today are still fascinated by “Nat,? an eighteenth-century nautical wonder and mathematical wizard. Nathaniel Bowditch grew up in a sailor?s world—Salem in the early days, when tall-masted ships from foreign ports crowded the wharves. But Nat didn?t promise to have the makings of a sailor; he was too physically small. Nat may have been slight of build, but no one guessed that he had the persistence and determination to master sea navigation in the days when men sailed only by “log, lead, and lookout.? Nat?s long hours of study and observation, collected in his famous work, The American Practical Navigator (also known as the “Sailors? Bible?), stunned the sailing community and made him a New England hero.

Robinson Crusoe: N.C. Wyeth Illustrations

The Life and Strange Surprizing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe was first published in 1719 without any reference to its author, Daniel Defoe. The book was presented as a true autobiography of a castaway marooned for 28 years on an uninhabited island. It was been considered one of the first English novels. and is one of the most published books in history. Crusoe becomes self-sufficient using material salvaged from shipwrecks and endures cannibals, earthquakes, and mutineers before his final rescue. He rescues a native who has escaped from cannibals and names him Friday in reference to the day of the week he was found. The book’s plot is believed to be based on the story of the real-life castaway Alexander Selkirk.

Old Ironsides: Americans Build a Fighting Ship

She weighs in at 1,576 tons, carries 44 guns, and is made from the wood of more than 1,000 trees. She’s the largest, fastest fighting ship of her class—the Constitution. Follow young John Aylwin as he watches and helps in the construction of one of the most remarkable sailing ships ever built, a ship whose strength under fire earned her the nickname “Old Ironsides.”

The Big Book of the Blue

Alongside everything the young oceanographer needs to know, Zommer’s charming illustrations bring to life some of the slipperiest, scaliest, strangest, and most monstrous underwater animals.

Manfish: A Story of Jacques Cousteau

Before Jacques Cousteau became an internationally known oceanographer and champion of the seas, he was a curious little boy. In this lovely biography, poetic text and gorgeous paintings combine to create a portrait of Jacques Cousteau that is as magical as it is inspiring.

Ocean: A Visual Encyclopedia, 2nd Edition (DK Children's Visual Encyclopedias)

Explore the hidden depths of the ocean in this jam-packed visual encyclopedia for children.Explore our blue planet through amazing facts and colorful diagrams in this fully updated edition of the popular Ocean: A Children’s Encyclopedia.This encyclopedia for children aged 9-12 is full of beautiful pictures that bring the ocean to life and show its most amazing features. Each concept is broken down clearly, with colourful diagrams describing scientific processes, "wow" facts, and graphics to engage and educate curious kids.

Meet the Men who Sailed the Seas

Meet the Men Who Sailed the Seven Seas by John Dyment with Illustrations by Victor Mays - Step-Up Books 1966

Ship

Recreates the story of the archaeological recovery of a caravelle. Although this was the first craft used to bring European explorers to America, no known drawings or models remain to show how it was built. In this book we join a team of archaeologists as they discover a wrecked caravelle on a Caribbean reef. Their fascinating factual recovery of its artefacts is recounted through dozens of documents, drawings, and maps. As the book weaves a fictional account of the Magdalena's last voyage, the book shows the author's skill in putting across a wealth of historical and technical information in an

Next, jump into this study with the subjects listed below.

I tried to cover ideas for multiple ages.

HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY NAUTICAL UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 1

Vikings use long ships, Phoenicians did trade building and Mesopotamians used early sail boats. Early cultures relied on seas for not their livelihood but for day to day existence.

And life at sea was not easy. From using basic navigation tools to discovering trade routes, early explorers paved the road or is that seas for future trading.

Look at some of these activities and topics to add to the history and geography of a nautical life.

Grab the Phoenician sailors minibook here at my page Ancient Civilizations.
Make a Viking Longship.
Do a navigation timeline to include the dates and names of these tools: compass, astrolabe, sextant and chronometer.
Learn about Pirates. Look at my Pirates Unit Study and Lapbook.

Grab my Marco Polo Unit Study and Lapbook 1254 to 1324 to learn about early trade routes.
Hands-on Geography: Longitude/Latitude Mapmaking Activity.
Compare types of ships like Chinese treasure ships, Clipper, Galleons, Viking Longships and Medieval Cogs.

NATURE & SCIENCE NAUTICAL UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 2

Then, some of the key objectives to cover in this part of your unit study is ocean life, marine life, survival at sea, and even weather and climate.

Here are some activities to include along with hands-on ideas.

Do this edible ocean layers activity.
Edible Geography – Sea Levels.
Ocean Mystery of the Bermuda Triangle: Download Your Free Printable.
How to Make a Fun Apple Sailboat to introduce buoyancy.
Investigate shipwrecks. Look at my unit study RMS Titanic Unit Study and Free Lapbook.

MATH & LANGUAGE ARTS NAUTICAL UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 3

How to Make A Kids Ship Wheel | Ship Terminology
Design a ship hull on graph paper.
Language Arts Message in a Bottle.
Budget supplies for a voyage
What is knots? (unit of speed).
Build a scale model of a ship like the Mayflower or Titanic
Read The Old Man and the Sea by Ernest Hemingway and do literature analysis.

Ship Craft Ideas & Ship Terminology | Fun Ship in A Bottle Craft for Kids
Build a Sextant
Compare nautical miles vs. miles.
Read Carry On, Mr. Bowditch for a living book.
Study lighthouse angles and light rotation
Write about sea myths like Poseidon or the Kraken

Finally, look at ideas for arts and crafts to include in your nautical unit.

ARTS & CRAFTS NAUTICAL UNIT STUDY IDEAS WEEK 4

Fun High School Science Games About Ocean Life.
High School Marine Life Art Ideas & Easy Eagle Ray Art.
Geronimo Stilton Out Of Time Fun Sir Francis Drake Ship Craft.
Label parts of a ship.
Moving Paper Plate Porthole Craft

Finally, look at more best homeschool unit studies.

UNIT STUDIES FOR HOMESCHOOL

Creative Crafts: How to Make An Adorable Pipe Cleaner Chicken

February 17, 2026 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

A pipe cleaner chicken is an adorable and fine motor skill-building activity that is a great introduction to a fresh chicken unit. Also, look at my page Free Homeschool Chicken Unit Study and Anatomy of an Egg Felt Activity & Worksheet for more ideas.

Hands-on crafts are a wonderful way to bring learning to life, and this simple pipe cleaner chicken is the perfect companion to a fun farm study.

Creative Crafts: How to Make An Adorable Pipe Cleaner Chicken

As children twist, shape, and create their own little bird, they can also discover fascinating facts about real chickens, especially roosters and the famous Leghorn breed.

Simple crafts like a pipe cleaner chicken turn an ordinary lesson into a meaningful experience. By learning about roosters, Leghorns, and other chicken breeds, children gain a deeper appreciation for the animals that provide food and help people every day.

So twist those pipe cleaners, shape a tiny beak and tail, and let your handmade chicken remind you of the busy, clucking world of the farmyard, where every sunrise might begin with the proud crow of a rooster

LEARNING ABOUT CHICKENS RESOURCES FOR KIDS

Next, look at some of these resources to help you learn about chickens.

9 Books and Resources for a Fun Chicken Unit Study

Whether you’re wanting to do a chicken unit study or study chickens for the day, you’ll love these books and resources to add to your collection.

Chicks & Chickens

Cheep . . . cheep . . . cluck! Everything you ever wanted to know about chickens and eggs—except which came first. With bright watercolor illustrations and simple, clear language, nonfiction master Gail Gibbons shows young readers everything there is to know about chickens. See what different breeds of chickens look like, discover how eggs are laid and hatched, and learn how big and little farms take care of their birds. Key vocabulary words about chicken behavior and anatomy are introduced throughout Chicks and Chickens, and new words are reinforced in accessible language for young readers.

4 PCS Chicken Farm Animal Life Cycle Growth Model

Children can see how animals change and grow. Realistic detail showing a different stage in the development of animals.

Uniquely molded textures and richly painted details bring them to life and help inspire creativity for kids.

It is a great way to expand the growth with children through physical science.

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.

Where Do Chicks Come From?

Read and find out about eggs—and how baby chicks grow inside of them—in this colorfully illustrated nonfiction picture book.

Learn how chicks develop, how they get the food they need to grow, and how a mother hen helps keep them safe in this introduction to the life cycle of a baby chick.

Chickenology: The Ultimate Encyclopedia

A great educational book, covering:• Different breeds of chickens, like Padovana and Silkie• The difference between roosters and hens• How chicks are formed in the egg• Chickens sounds and noises• Chicken anatomy and feather anatomy and colors• Chickens and eggs around the world• Chicken history and folklore• Raising chickens at home• Chickens as pets

LEGO Creator Easter Chickens 30643

These LEGO Chickens are a fun and easy add on for little ones joining in the fun.

Farm Animal for Kids, Chicken Coop

DETAILED & REALISTIC. Crafted with precision and authentic detail to create a lifelike toy that teaches and inspires toddlers and kids of every age; helps introduce children to animals. From the first sketch to the intricate finishing touches, we see value in every detail.

Farm Animal Chicken Coop Building Blocks

Chicken Coop Building Blocks. It contains a coop, twenty chicken and ten eggs.

Compatible with LEGO: It's made of LEGO-compatible bricks. It will enrich your MOC blocks. It can be put together with a lot of block scenes, such as farm, house, castle, village, animal and so on.

Farm Animals Figurines Simulated Farm Life

These little chicken figurines would also make a great addition to a chicken study, put them in a sensory bin with a little birdseed or cracked corn for hours of fun.

Then, look at these facts about chickens.

CHICKEN FACTS

Chickens are one of the most common farm animals in the world. They are raised for eggs, meat, and even companionship.
Chickens belong to a group of birds called domestic fowl, and they were first domesticated thousands of years ago in Asia before spreading across the globe.
Unlike many birds, chickens do not fly very far. Instead, they spend most of their time scratching at the ground looking for seeds, insects, and tasty plants.
Chickens communicate with clucks, chirps, and squawks, each sound meaning something different, such as danger nearby or food discovered.
Chickens also live in social groups called flocks. Inside every flock is a clear pecking order, which helps keep peace and organization among the birds.

WHAT MAKES A ROOSTER SPECIAL

A rooster is a male chicken, and he has an important job in the flock. Roosters are easy to recognize because they:

Crow loudly, often at sunrise.
Have bright, colorful feathers.
Grow long tail feathers that curve beautifully.
Have a larger comb and wattle (the red parts on the head and under the beak).

The rooster’s crow is more than just noise; it helps mark territory and signal the start of a new day.

Roosters also protect hens by watching for predators and sounding an alarm when danger appears.

In many cultures, roosters are symbols of courage, watchfulness, and morning light. Long ago, people relied on roosters as natural “alarm clocks” before modern alarm clocks and iPhone notifications ever existed.

ALL ABOUT THE LEGHORN CHICKEN

Our pipe cleaner chicken today is modeled after the Leghorn chicken, so let’s craft a model of one with one of the most versatile craft supplies- pipe cleaners.

One of the most famous chicken breeds in the world is the Leghorn. This breed originally came from Italy but became especially popular in the United States because of its amazing egg-laying ability.

Leghorns are known for:

Bright white feathers (though other colors exist
A large red comb that often flops to one side
Energetic, active personalities
Excellent production of white eggs

In fact, many of the white eggs sold in grocery stores come from Leghorn chickens. Farmers value them because they lay a high number of eggs while eating relatively little food, making them efficient and practical.

Children might also recognize a Leghorn from cartoons…the famous character Foghorn Leghorn was inspired by this very breed.

Also, look at more posts about chickens.

MORE CHICKEN ACTIVITIES

HOW TO MAKE A PIPE CLEANER CHICKEN CRAFT

You will need:

Tacky craft glue
5-7 white pipe cleaners
1 yellow pipe cleaner
1 red pipe cleaner
Google eyes

First, bend two white pipe cleaners back and forth, and bend the ends upward to form a slight smile shape.

Wrap additional pipe cleaners, 2-3, in the opposite direction to fill out your shape. Leave one end uncovered for tail feathers.

Spread out the pip cleaner ends that are uncovered to make the tail more visible.

Bend the yellow pipe cleaner in half to make legs and form the ends into chicken feet by bending the little toes into shape.

Wrap a white pipe cleaner around the center and go up and down each let about ½”

Use the remaining ends of the pipe cleaner and wrap them around the body on the underside to attach the legs. Tuck the ends in to be sure it holds fast.

Cut a small piece of red for the waddle and bend it into a V. Cut a larger red piece and bend it into a comb shape small enough to fit on its head.

Use tacky glue to attach the comb to the top, slip the beak and waddle through the white pipe cleaner, and secure with glue.

Glue on the google eyes.

Finally, cut a white pipe cleaner in half, roll and shape each into a wing (teardrop shape) and glue onto the sides.

Allow the glue to dry completely.

You can follow the same instructions to make chickens of all different breeds, and before you know it, you will have a flock.

Make Learning Fun: Free Printable Digestive System Activity

February 15, 2026 | Leave a Comment
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I have a free printable digestive system activity. Also, I have this Human Body Crafts page for more hands-on ideas. And this Beautiful Human Body Lapbook and Fun Unit Study.

Every once in a while, we love to add quick activity pages to our unit studies. Plus, learning the digestive system can feel abstract for kids.

And simple activities like dot to dot and word searches help children understand that the digestive system is a process with many parts.

Make Learning Fun: Free Printable Digestive System Activity

Another reason I love using printables at times is it allows kids to work independently while you help another child.

If you keep a science binder add my human body printables and your child can do them on the go.

And one of the best parts is the digestive system activity mats gives a basic introduction to the human body.

BOOKS FOR KIDS ABOUT THE HUMAN BODY

Next, look at some books and resources we loved during our unit study.

16 Human Body Books & Hands-on Resources

Add a few of these fun resources whether you do a couple of lesson plans about the human body or a unit study.

The Way We Work: Getting to Know the Amazing Human Body

One of the resources we used as a reference for this activity was The Way We Work, it covers a lot of interesting topics on the human body.

Medical Torso Human Body Model Anatomy

Vivid Human torso organ structure: 15 Pcs Removable Organs including: Torso, Brain (2-part), Heart, Esophagus and Aorta, Lungs (4-part), Cranial Cap, Stomach, Diaphragm, Liver, pancreas and spleen, small and large intestine. The torso structure showing the relative position, morphological features, anatomy of the head, neck and internal organs, especially the respiratory, digestive, urinary and nervous systems.

Human Organs Shape Silicone Molds 8 Pc

[HUMAN ORGANS SILICONE MOLD]: 8 Pcs Human Organs Mold With Different Shapes, Include 1 Human Heart Mold, 1 Brain Silicone Mold, 1 Liver Mold, 1 Intestinal Mold, 1 Lung Mold, 1 Stomach Mold, 1 Brain Stem Mold, 1 Kidney Mold.

Ooze Labs: Visible Human Body with Squishable Organs

This human body with squishable organs is another great way to identify the organs and become familiar with their layout in the body, it has that gross factor that so many kids love.

Human Body Model for Kids 8PCS Mini Body Parts

8PCS Human Organ Figures Set:Human organ anatomy parts display model children learning toy include small intestine, large intestine, lung, brain, stomach, heart, liver, kidney. Suitable for boys and girls over 6 years old,good for brain ability and imagination.

Anatomy (Quickstudy Academic)

Complete labeled illustrations of over 1,400 anatomical identifications. Loaded with beautifully illustrated diagrams clearly and concisely labeled for easy identification.

Basher Science: Human Body: A Book with Guts!

Basher Science: Human Body, A Book with Guts! Created & illustrated by Simon Basher, written by Dan Green

From the best-selling team that brought you The Periodic Table, Physics, Biology, and Astronomy comes a topic that's close to our hearts-literally! Meet the characters and processes that that keep the human body chugging along. From the basic building blocks like Cell, DNA, and Protein, to Bones, Muscles, and all of the fun-loving Organs, readers will cozy up with the guys on the inside. Trust us-Liver has never looked better!

Heart Anatomy Poster - LAMINATED

High-quality 3 MIL LAMINATION for added durability

Tear Resistant

Human Heart Anatomy Floor Puzzle

HUMAN ORGANS LEARNING: Marvel at the rich complexities of the human heart muscle! Every piece has a unique shape designed to outline each major part of the heart organ, making these an exciting challenge to assemble. Each puzzle includes an Anatomy Reference Guide, so you can learn as you build!

Fixed Bones X-Rays, Black/White, 14 Pieces,

Authentic x-ray images
Works with any light source or light table)
Matching facture card
Detailed teaching guide

4 Pack - Anatomical Poster Set - Laminated - Muscular, Skeletal, Ligaments of the Joints, Anatomy of the Spine

Set of 4 Posters Made in the USA
Posters are 18" x 24” in size
High-quality 3 MIL lamination for added durability
Tear Resistant

My First Book About the Brain (Dover Science For Kids Coloring Books)

Discover the workings of the body's most complex organ! How does the brain control the rest of the body? How does it enable the senses to function, regulate speech, affect balance, and influence sleep and dreams? These 25 illustrations to color explain every aspect of the brain's important jobs, from communicating with the central nervous system to retaining memories. Suitable for ages 8–12.

Skull Anatomy Coloring Book: Incredibly Detailed Self-Test Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book

Enjoy This Coloring Book with 34 Beautiful Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Pages.

The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book Provides A Means Of Learning About The Structure And Function Of The Human Skull Anatomy Through A Process Of Coloring-By-Directions.

Coloring The Human Skull Anatomy And Its Nerves Is The Most Effective Way To Study The Structure And Functions Of Human Skull Anatomy. You Assimilate Information And Make Visual Associations With Key Terminology When Coloring In The Human Skull Anatomy Coloring Book, All While Having Fun.

1 Pair Plastic Skeleton Hands

Fall is a great time to grab a set of hands at Dollar Tree but also here is a pair if you're doing a unit study and need one now.

Circulatory System Poster

This poster makes a great reference and can be used with older children to help them add more detail to their project.

The Circulatory System (Your Body Systems: Blastoff! Readers

Our bodies contain a super highway of blood vessels that carry nutrients, waste, and much more from our heads to our toes. This network is the circulatory system! Beginning with a deep breath in, this fact-filled title uses easy-to-follow text and diagrams to allow readers to dive inside the bodys circulatory system!

The human body is a complex being made up of systems that keep us alive and moving! In this series, readers will dive into the bodys systems though engaging, leveled text and related diagrams that follow the parts and functions of each system. Get a microscopic view inside the body with A Closer Look, and put new knowledge into action with a hands-on activity. Check out what is happening inside the body with each title!

Also, look at this post Basic Steps in the Digestive System and a Fun Digestive System Craft for a fun craft to do.

Also, look at more human body activities.

MORE HUMAN BODY ACTIVITIES FOR HANDS-ON LEARNING

Finally, look at how to grab the free printable activities for the digestive system.

This is a subscriber freebie.

HOW TO GET THE FREE PRINTABLE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM ACTIVITIES

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