As a science teacher and homeschool mom, I learned that the best lessons happen when kids feel like they are discovering something instead of just memorizing vocabulary. That is exactly why I created my Forms of Water worksheets and use various activities to make sure my kids really get the concept down.

I need something simple, visual, and hands-on that helps kids truly understand what water looks like in different states.

In this post, I will show you how I teach the forms of water in a way that works for homeschool families and classrooms.

Here is my easy lesson introduction activity, lesson structure, discussion questions, and a printable activity you can use right away.

Items You’ll Need:

Before starting the lesson, you’ll need to gather a few items to help make this hands-on. It makes the lesson so much smoother if you already have these items gathered before you start going through the lesson.

• Ice cubes
• A clear glass of water
• A kettle or pot (for steam!)
• Paper and crayons (for drawing)
• Whiteboard
• Towels (for cleanup)
• I’ve included some great worksheets for you here! Forms of Water Activity Pack

These simple materials make the lesson feel like a mini science lab for young learners.

Here’s How I Introduce the Forms of Water Lesson:

Start with the idea of a water mystery to build curiosity. My kids get so excited when I build up the anticipation.

Grab your ice, water, and your tea kettle (steaming hot!)

Show the kids the ice, water, and steam, but make sure not to say what each of them are.

Then you ask the kids one question: “Are these the same thing?”

Kids almost always say no at first.

Now, you start to invite them to say why. Give them space to say those observations out loud.

Ask questions like

• What does the ice feel like
• What happens when the ice sits in the tray
• Where does the steam go

Forms of Water Lesson Plan

I first explain that water can change form depending on temperature. I show how this happens using the following examples:

Solid

I hold the ice cube and explain that cold temperatures turn water into ice.

Liquid

I pour water into a clear glass so students can see how it moves and takes the shape of the container.

Gas

I show steam rising from warm water and explain that heat turns water into a gas.

Remember to keep the language simple! Water can be a solid, liquid, or gas. It is still water in every form.

Hands-On Practice

1.) Draw

It’s time to invite the students to draw the three forms of water in their notebooks or use their forms of water activities packet.

Ask them to label ice (solid), water (liquid), and steam (gas)

2.) Act it out

I ask my kids to show me what a sold, liquid, and gas would look like. They LOVE this part.

Solid stands still like ice.
Liquid wiggles and moves like water.
Gas floats around the room like steam.

Kids love this part.

Discussion

This is the part where we’re making sure the kids actually got the information.

Here are some questions I ask my students:

• Where have you seen ice before
• When do you see steam in your house
• What happens to ice if you leave it outside
• What happens to water when it gets very cold

These conversations help students understand that the forms of water are part of everyday life.

You simplify the lesson with a ready to use printable

You can grab my printable activity here: Understanding the Forms of Water

This resource works well for

• Pre K
• Kindergarten
• First grade
• Homeschool science lessons

Inside the resource, you will find activities that help kids identify and understand the forms of water in a simple visual way.

I designed this resource because I needed something quick and clear for my own lessons.

More Forms of Water Activities Kids Will Love

If your students enjoyed this lesson, try extending the learning with a few more activities.

Ice Melt Observation

You place an ice cube on a tray and let students watch what happens over time. Ask them to describe the change.

Steam Watch

You boil water safely and let students observe steam rising. Talk about how heat changes liquid water into gas.

Freeze and Predict

You place water in the freezer and ask students to predict what will happen overnight.

These small experiments help young learners see the science in action.

You might also enjoy these related activities on the blog:

• The Best Homeschool Ideas For Teaching Living and Nonliving Things
• 20  Tips To Help Kids Play Outside More (Helpful Ideas!)
• The Best Ways To Use Shapes To Teach Kindergarten: Awesome Ideas To Know and Love

Teaching the forms of water does not need to be complicated. Kids learn best when they can see and explore the concept in real life.

That is why I love using simple demonstrations and printable activities that keep the focus on curiosity and discovery.

If you are teaching early science at home or in the classroom, this resource can make the lesson feel simple and engaging.

You are already doing something powerful by helping kids notice the science in everyday moments. Keep going. The small lessons you teach today are building lifelong curiosity.

I’m always looking for Valentine homeschool ideas because If I’m being honest, February is one of the hardest months for me. The pace is still slow, the cold dark days are getting old, and the magic of Christmas feels like a distant memory. Even though it is the shortest month, I often find myself searching for little ways to bring joy into the gloom.

Valentine’s Day is one of those bright spots that I make sure to emphasize for my homeschool students. I love weaving this fun, love-filled holiday into our lessons without making it complicated, expensive, or overly “Pinterest perfect.” Instead, I look for meaningful activities that spark curiosity, invite connection, and make learning feel gentle and hands-on.

If you’re looking for Valentine’s Day homeschool ideas that add joy, comfort, and creativity to your days, you’ll love the simple activities I’m sharing here.

Download the FREE Valentine’s Day Candy Hearts Chemistry Mini Lab!

Valentine Homeschool Ideas:

“Heart Hike”

Bundle up and take your kids outside! Have your kids gather items they can use to make a heart! 

Extension for older students:

As an extension for older kids, have them draw a real heart and label each part of the heart and rearch the role of each component of the heart. Have the older kids then read this article and in a paragraph (3-5 sentences) answer how did the human heart become associated with love?

Candy Heart Dissolving

Candy Heart FREE Mini Lab Lesson

Let’s combine the holiday with chemistry for these Valentine’s Day homeschool ideas! Grab a bag of candy hearts and let’s do some experimenting! Test different liquids to see which liquid will cause the candy hearts to dissolve the quickest.  I use 

• Water
• Vinegar
• Juice
• Soda

Before we begin, my students predict what they think will happen. They record the start time and the time the candy fully dissolves. For older students, I challenge them to explain why certain liquids worked faster than others based on acidity, composition, or chemical reactions.

Nature Love Letter

I get my kids to write a love letter to Earth! I ask them to use words like plants, animals, water, sun, air, trees, flowers, etc. They may even be able to use words like pollinators, climate, or habitat. You can even ask them to explain how we can show love to our Earth. Once they are done writing their “love letter,” have them draw a picture of something they love on Earth/in nature. For older students, I have them write a love letter or a poem to something in nature that they love and cannot imagine living without. 

Shoe Box for Candy Collection

I saved the best for last! 

For younger kids:

Grab a shoe box and don’t just decorate it with random items, go out into nature and collect items during a nature walk. Use those items to glue on the box and use it as a candy collection box for Valentine’s Day treats.

 For the older students:

This is where I blend hands-on learning with our curriculum. One of my favorite Valentine’s Day homeschool ideas is turning a shoebox into an ocean model and a treat box.

My eighth graders love decorating their boxes because they know that after we label the ocean features, the candy goes inside!

We label:

• Continental shelf
• Slope and rise
• Abyssal plain
• Mid-ocean ridge
• Deep ocean trench
• Seamounts
• Hydrothermal vents
• Any other ocean details they want to include

It becomes such an engaging and memorable lesson. Cozy. Intentional. Real science without losing Valentines Day theme.

I hope you found some value in this post to help bring some fun and connection into your home this month. These fun science homeschool Valentine’s Day ideas are meant to make learning at home uncomplicated, but educational. 

Don’t forget to check out this freebie to help you with the candy dissolving activity.

And if you’re looking for more easy Valentine’s Day science activities, check out the fun, hands-on resources in my TPT store as well.

TPT Activities You May Like:

• Science Valentine’s Day Cards
• Valentine’s Day Count and Clip Cards
• Valentine’s Day Count and Color
• Addition and Subtraction for Valentine’s Day
• Left Right for Valentine’s Day

Other Posts You May Like:

• Last Minute Teacher Valentines Day Gift Ideas (Easy Printables)!
• The Most Adorable Science Valentines Day Cards From Teachers
• These 25+ Ideas Will Make Your Valentines Day Classroom Party Even Better
• 10+ Incredible Eco Valentines Day Gift Ideas From Etsy That Your Parnter Will Love

1. Amazon Gift Card Holder

As a way to say thank you for being an AMAZON teacher, grab this Amazon gift card holder to add to thier Amazon Gift card.

This gift is great even as a last minute teacher Valentines Day gift idea because it is easy to print and add a gift card!

2. Target Gift Card Holder

Similiar to the Amazon gift card holder, this last minute Valentines Day gift idea is easy because it is editable and printable. This makes it an easy gift idea for any teacher.

3. Coffee Shop Gift Card Holder

These are the cutest! Coffee is essential for most teachers and this gift card holder adds a special and personalized touch to a last minute Valentines Day gift.

4. Sweetheart Candy Card

Print out this last minute Valentines Day gift tag to add to some sweet treats as a gift for teachers!

5. Reasons Why I Love My Teacher

Your child can show their teacher some love with this super simple fill-in-the-blank teacher card! Download this card, print, and gift it!

You can print these at home the night before (or the morning of!) and have your kid fill it out right before school, making it a great last minute Valentines day gift idea for teachers.

6. Flower Tag

Head to your garden to pick some flowers for this last minute teacher Valentines Day gift idea!

7. Hand Sanitizer Gift Tag

This is one of the best last minute teach Valentines Day gift ideas because every teacher could use more hand sanitizer.

Download this gift tag and add it to a bottle of hand sanitizer for the perfect gift.

8. Lotto Ticket

This is such a cute and fun last minute teacher Valeintes Day gift idea. You can print this tag before you leave that morning and grab a lotto ticket from the gas station on the way!

9. Donuts

Print out this free printable and grab a box of donuts for this teacher’s Valentine’s Day gift! It’s so simple and the teachers will absolutely love it!

10. Coloring Page

All our kids are little artists at heart! Let your artist show off their skills with this last minute teacher Valentines Day gift idea.

Simply print this page, and have your child draw a picture for their teacher for Valentines Day!

11. Editable Thumbprint Keepsake

Grab some paint (or ink!) and have your child add their thumbprint to the hearts in this printable.

You can easily print this at home and add it in a frame for your child’s teacher to keep!

12. Plant Tag Valentines Card

Grab a plant or a plant propagation from home and add this tag to it!

Have your child write their favorite things about their teacher to really make them feel the love.

Don’t forget this free download! I’ve used it for Valentine’s Day AND Teacher Appreciation

I hope you enjoyed these last minute teacher Valentines Gift Ideas!

Related Posts:

• 15+ Best Eco-friendly Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas To Celebrate Love
• Tired of the Same Old Date Night? Try These 20 Date Night Ideas for Valentine’s Day and Beyond!
• Super Simple and Relaxing At-Home Spa Date Night Idea

My students LOVE Doodle sheets. I try to incorporate them as often as possible to help with engagement and help them remember information. We’ve begun our chapter on force in Earth Science, and doodle notes are perfect to help with this!

There is some overlap on forces and matter in my Earth Science and Physical Science class, and these notes work for my middle schoolers and high schoolers.

My students always do better when they can see their thinking on paper, and that’s what this Force Doodle Sheet provides. It takes the abstract, hard-to-grasp ideas and breaks them down in a way that feels approachable, visual, and even fun!

Here’s why your students have a hard time understanding force:

• Force is invisible. Unlike a rock, a leaf, or even a chemical reaction, force doesn’t show up right in front of them!
• It’s everywhere and so common, we don’t even consider it.
• The vocabulary words in this chapter feel like a foreign language to the students and can get overwhelming. They’ve never quite heard these terms, and if so, not in this way.

Because of this, it’s so important to pair clear explanations with visuals and examples. 

Use this doodle sheet as a visual organizer of the two types of forces. My curriculum calls them contact forces and field forces. Then, use the examples of each type so they can connect science to real-life situations. The chance to color, doodle, and interact with the content helps it stick to their memory. 

I even included a differentiated version with fewer words so you can adjust the level of support to fit your class. 

Here’s EXACTLY how my class session goes when I teach about types of force:

• I ask students to turn to their books and do popcorn reading. I use this sensory duck to make this more engaging. Both my high school and middle school students literally fight to read so they can hold the duck.
• Next, we move to my slides. I hand students their doodle sheets and we go through each section along with the slides.
• Before I show each of the answers to the doodle section, I ask the students out loud – “Does anyone know what a force is”? I then share the definition with them and continue in that manner for the rest of the doodle notes until I get to the example section.
• Once we are on the example side of the Force Doodle Notes Sheet, I release the students and allow them to use their textbooks and work with their group to find which type of force matches each example.
• We then return to the slides as a group. I have a picture that corresponds with each example and we go through each example together. I explain to the students why each of these examples corresponds with each type of force.

If you’ve been searching for a way to make this “invisible” science concept a little more tangible, this doodle sheet is a game-changer. Your students will leave with a stronger grasp of push, pull, and the forces at work in their everyday lives.

Find this resource on TPT! 

If you’re a busy mom looking to bring some order to the chaos, this post is for you! These back to school organization tips are simple, doable, and mom-tested!

Whether you’re juggling multiple kids or just trying to survive those early mornings, these genius systems will set your family up for success all school year long.

This post is about back to school organization tips for a smooth start to the school year!

1. Set Up A School Paper Station

Create a home for all the papers. Permission slips, flyers, newsletters, and reading logs should all be in one place.

Paper Station Tip #1:

Wall-mounted file organizer near the front door or kitchen

Paper Station Tip #2:

Create three folders: “Needs To Be Signed” “Keep” “Turn In”

2. Create a Homework Station

Create a dedicated homework station to ensure back to school organization for your kids. Set up a homework station with all necessary supplies like pencils, erasers, and calculators. Use a calendar to track assignment due dates and encourage your kids to tick off completed tasks. 

Homework Station Tip #1:

Set up a small table or desk with school supplies in a caddy

Homework Station Tip #2:

Keep sharpened pencils, scissors, crayons, and paper handy

Homework Station Tip #3:

Add a dry erase board or homework calendar

3. Keep A Reading Log Spot

Set a specific time each day for reading and logging it. Whether it’s right after school or before bed, consistency is key.

Reading Log Spot Tip #1:

Clip a reading log to a clipboard

Reading Log Spot Tip #2:

Keep your reading log in the same spot every day

Reading Log Spot Tip #3:

Schedule a consistent reading time after dinner or before bed

4. Organize Snacks For the Week

Let’s reduce the daily “can I have a snack?!” battles. Pre-pack snacks for the week in individual containers or snack bags. Store them in a designated drawer or shelf in the kitchen where kids can easily access them. This saves time in the mornings and ensures they always have healthy options.

Snack Organization Tip#1:

Use labeled bins in the fridge and pantry

Snack Organization Tip #2

Portion out and prepare snacks on Sundays, before the week starts

Snack Organization Tip #3:

Add a small bin in the car for emergency snacks

5. Meal Planning for Breakfast and Dinner

Plan your meals for the week ahead. Create a menu and prep as much as possible over the weekend. This could include chopping vegetables, marinating meats, or even cooking some dishes in advance.

Meal Plan Tip #1:

Use a weekly dry-erase meal planner

Meal Plan Tip #2:

Prep some meals or follow food influencers for motivation. Ideas for meals to prep include breakfast burritos, smoothies, or muffins!

Meal Plan Tip #3:

Keep freezer meals for crazy evenings. I love staying stocked up on Trader Joe’s frozen meals or freezing leftovers from a meal to eat on another day.

6. Backpack Organization

Backpack Organization Tip #1:

Create a checklist of daily items:

• Library Books
• Homework
• Lunch Box
• Water Bottle
• School Folder
• Show and Tell Items
• Additional Supplies

Backpack Organization Tip #2:

Use backpack hooks to keep the items off the floor. These hooks are the perfect way to keep the backpacks organized and in a dedicated space. 

7. School Supply Organization

Keeping school supplies mobile is helpful if you don’t have a dedicated space.

Supply Organization Tip #1:

Keep school supplies organized in clear containers or drawers. Label each container so that items are easy to find and put away. You can also create a portable supply caddy that your kids can carry to their homework station.

Supply Organization Tip #2:

I love using a rolling cart for my school supply organiztion too! I’m able to organize art supplies, items for school projects, and other school items my kids need quick access to.  This helps avoid last-minute scrambles in the morning and during homework time. The wheels on the cart make it easier to roll around if you don’t have a dedicated space for homework time.

Related Posts: Here’s The Complete Supplies Checklist You Need for Homeschool Essentials

8. Plan Outfits for the Week

Set aside time each Sunday to plan outfits for the week.

Outfit Planning Tip #1:

Use a hanging organizer with labeled days of the week.

Outfit Planning Tip #2:

Encourage your kids to help pick out clothes. In my experience, this has minimized arguing about outfits in the morning. I even have the kids look at my weather app and use it as an opportunity to connect weather and what we wear.

9. Use a Family Chore + Time Chat

Structure helps everyone know what to expect!

Family Chore + Time Chart Idea:

Create a daily chart with your school, chore, and bedtime routines.

10. Create A Calm Morning Routine

Establish a consistent morning routine to help everyone start the day on the right foot.

Morning Routine Tip #1:

Use visual routine cards: include waking up, getting dressed, eating breakfast, brushing teeth, getting packpack, etc.

I love using this daily routine chart in my home! No matter which day of the week (school or not!) we try to use this to help the kids understand what is coming up.

Morning Routine Tip #2:

Use a timer or playlist to keep things moving.

11. Make a School Shopping Checklist

If you’re realizing a theme in this posts about back to school organization tips its make a list!

School Shopping Tip #1:

Print a checklist and tape it to the fridge

School Shopping Tip #2:

Shop your house before buying anything new

School Shopping Tip #3:

Buy extras while they’re on sale to easily restock and replace when needed.

12. School Lunch Choice Board

Lunches get boring fast and making them each day gets old, fast!

Lunch Tips #1:

Create a lunch choice board with different meal options for each day. This allows kids to pick their  meals in advance, making lunchtime more enjoyable and causing less stress for you. I love using this choice board for both lunch and after school snacks. 

Choice boards are an easy way to make your kids feel in control while also staying organized.

Lunch Tips #2:

Prep some lunch components in advance such as refilling water bottles and pre-packing non-perishable items.

13. Create a Family Command Center

This is the ultimate back to school organization hack!

Command Center Tip:

Set up a family command center with a calendar, bulletin board, and storage bins. Use it to track school events, extracurricular activities, and important deadlines. This central hub keeps everyone informed and organized. Even in a small space you can add a calendar and a small bin in your area. Think of this as a drop zone for your family to easily place important papers and 

• Calendar
• Cork boards
• File shelf with hooks

14. Establish a Sunday Reset Routine

A Sunday reset sets the tone for your entire week and helps you start the week on your own terms!I’ve found that the more I prepare myself for the week on Sunday, the less stressed and anxious I feel on Monday.

Sunday Reset Routine Ideas #1:

• Full everything shower routine
• Clean bedding and laundry for the week
• Clean the house so everything in the right place and your home is orderly
• Plan for the week (use your planner and family calendar) 
• Make your to do list for the next day
• Meal prep/meal plan
• Order groceries/ go to grocery store
• Do something relaxing (go on a family walk, go to brunch, light a candle, watch a movie together)

Sunday Reset Routine Ideas #2:

Create a fun Sunday tradition like Sunday night movie or pizza night.

15. Transition Back To School Early

A few weeks before school begins, start transitioning back to school routines.

Back To School Transition Tip #1:

Move bedtime earlier gradually

Back To School Transition Tip #2:

Practice morning routines the week before school

Back To School Tranisition Tip #3:

Create a back to school countdown

16. Organize Your Car

The car clutter is so real, especially after summer!

Car Organization Tip:

Keep your car organized with storage solutions like seat-back organizers and trunk bins. Here are some of the items I like to store in the car to keep it organized:

• Healthy snacks
• Wipes
• Extra clothes
• Utensils ( I like this reusable set!)
• Water bottles (non-plastic because plastic can leach into water as microplastics while sitting in the sun)
• Trash can (reuse plastic grocery bags from your home)

17. Perfect Your Nighttime Routine

End the day with a consistent nighttime routine! A structured routine helps kids relax and prepares them for restful sleep. I have two kids in elementary school and this is how our nightime routine looks. My goal for bedtime is 8pm.

Nighttime Sample Routine

• 5:30pm – 6pm: eat dinner
• 6pm – 6:30pm: nighttime walk
• 6:30pm – 7pm: quiet family game (board game, puzzle, reading together)
• 7pm – 7:15pm: kid’s go to their room for quiet time while I get the bathroom ready for bath
• 7:15pm – 7:45pm: bath/shower, brush teeth, lotion and get dressed
• 7:45pm – 8pm: book, prayers, and bed

18. Add Important School Dates To The Family Calendar

We live by our family calendar! I keep this calendar on the fridge so everyone can see what we have going on. Making sure that the whole family can see the calendar is a good idea because we are all in the loop! If we have a question or we’re trying to write out our to-do list, we can start at the family calendar. This is one of my best school organization solutions for maintaining structure and not dropping the ball on anything. 

19. Have a Closet Cleanout

Having a clean closet will help make the mornings so much more smooth! Plus, you’ll want to make room for new school clothes!

Closet Cleanuout Tip #1:

Sort through your kids’ wardrobes to remove clothes they’ve outgrown or no longer wear. This makes room for new school clothes and keeps their closets clutter-free. I like to organize their closet in 2 sections: summer/spring and winter/fall. During the start of the school year it is still warm outside so I will put their summer/spring clothes closer to the bottom on the closet so my son can reach them. As the colder months come, I will rotate the clothes. This helps my son be more independent with choosing his clothes, and helps me to stay organized with fewer trips to the laundry room! 

Related Posts: What is Project 333? Declutter Your Closet With This Minimalist Clothing Challenge

20. Declutter Summer Items

Put away summer gear like swimsuits and beach towels to make space for school essentials. Store these items in labeled bins for easy access next year.

You can get these bins here and these labels here.

21. Label Everything

Label school supplies, lunch boxes, and clothing to prevent mix-ups and lost items. A label maker is a great way to easily organize your child’s items for the start of school.

I’ve found that this small and inexpensive label maker works perfectly for the items I need to turn in for my elementary school children!

22. Make a List of After School Activities

Keep track of all after-school activities by creating a list with days and times for each activity. This is especially important with older children who have multiple activities during the school year. From practices and payment due dates to games and team hangouts, write down everything you know as soon as you find out! This ensures you’re always aware of where your kids need to be and helps manage time effectively.

I write everything in my planner. EVERYTHING! This is how I stay the most organized. I still use a paper planner (my favorite planners are from Happy Planner – they’re FANTASTIC!). There are also great digital planners that are paperfree and can be used digitally.  These planners have digital calendars that allow you to schedule and track your needs for the start of school

My favorite paper planner!

​Amazing, all-in one digital planner 

23. Create A Keepsake Box

A keepsake box will help you store all of the important documents from your child’s school work that you may want to save for later! It is a great idea to help organize the most important things from your child’s backpack and the items you want to keep to look back on! 

To recreate this keepsake box, grab this portable file box with a handle and use your cricut to make labels (or grab these off Etsy!) and add a file folder set to organize by grade level or subject!

Getting organized for the back-to-school season doesn’t have to be daunting. With these tips, you can create a more structured and less stressful environment for both you and your kids. Remember, the key is to stay consistent and involve your children in the process.

I hope you enjoyed learning about these genius back to school organization ideas to help create an effortless school year!

Related Posts:

• The 25 Best Eco Friendly School Supplies For 2023
• Budget-Friendly Ways to Thank Teachers: Free Gifts For Teachers They’ll Love
• Best Science Educational Activities for 3-5 Year Olds at Home: Hands-on Ideas For Kids + Guaranteed Fun

This activity and lesson is great for students of all ages, but I would reccomend Pre K – 5th grade. We’ll be using recycled containers like milk cartons and egg carts to help support plant growth and show how nonliving objects can play a role in helping living things thrive.

Science is all about curiosity!

We’ll use this DIY activity planting with kids to encourge students to explore the world around them by observing nature, ask questions, and use these everyday objects in creative ways.

You’ll want to first introduce the concept of living and nonliving things.

How to determine if something is a living thing? Here are some questions your students can ask:

• Can it grow?
• Can it move?
• Can it breathe?
• Does it need water to surive?
• Can it reproduce?
• Does it need food to survive?
• Can it die?
• Does it respond to it’s environment?

This video is great resource for teaching younger students (Pre K – K) about the concept of living and nonliving things:

I love this video for elementary students! It challenges the question what makes something alive?

Based on the criteria above, we know that plants are living things!

Plants grow and move (even if it’s very slow), plants reproduce, need water and food, and respond to their environment.

This planting with kids activity can help students understand the difference between living and non living things because they will be able to identify the different elements of the activity and determine whether it is living or non living.

Reusing cartons and containers for this planting with kids activity also makes it a great idea to do during spring or for Earth Day!

With this acitivity students will be able to:

• learn about the importance of plants
• identify living and non living componets
• explain the difference between living and non living things
• understand that plants need nutrients, air, water, light, and a place to grow

Examples of Living versus Non Living

Here are some examples to ask your students. Have them tell you where each of these are living or non living.

Ask students: are these examples of living or non living

• Tree
• Rock
• Flower
• Grass
• Table
• Pencil
• Dog
• Book
• Cat
• Bird
• Fish
• Cup
• Butterfly
• Toy
• Earthworm
• Bike
• Ant
• Scooter
• Frog
• Your friend
• Clock
• House
• Car
• Mushroom
• Baloon
• Horse
• Spoon
• Bee
• TV
• Snail
• Computer
• Cactus
• Sunglasses
• Squirrel
• Chicken
• Paper

Can You Grow Plants in Milk Cartons?

• Explain how milk cartons, egg cartons, and boxes can act as small planters for growing seeds.
• Discuss the benefits of using recycled containers—cost-effective, eco-friendly, and easy for kids to decorate.
• Mention any potential challenges (e.g., making sure there are drainage holes so the seeds don’t get too wet).

Here Are the Best Types of Seeds for This Activity:

These are great because they provide a quick reward for students. Not only do they grow quickly, they also do not rquire a lot of maintainence.

• Beans
• Sunflowers
• Lettuce
• Radishes
• Marigolds
• Peppers

How to Start Seeds in a Milk Carton

Materials Needed

• Empty milk cartons
• Scissors
• Soil
• Seeds
• Water
• Markers or stickers for decorating

Planting With Kids Instructions For Seeds In a Milk Carton

• Cut the top off the milk carton to create an open planter.
• Poke a few small holes in the bottom for drainage.
• Fill with soil, leaving some space at the top.
• Plant the seeds according to the seed packet instructions.
• Water lightly and place in a sunny spot.
• Observe daily, watering as needed, and watch for sprouts!

How to Start Seeds in an Egg Carton

Materials Needed

• Empty egg carton
• Soil
• Seeds
• Water
• Tray or plate (to catch water)

Planting With Kids Instructions For Seeds in an Egg Carton

• Fill each egg cup with soil.
• Plant one or two seeds in each section.
• Lightly water the soil.
• Keep in a warm, sunny spot and water regularly.
• Once the seedlings are big enough, you can transfer them into a garden or larger pot.

How to Start Seeds in a Cardboard Box

Materials Needed

• Small cardboard box (such as a shoebox) or a box from a small package
• Parchment paper (to prevent leaks)
• Soil
• Seeds
• Water

Planting With Kids Instructions For Seeds in a Carboard Box

• Line the inside of the box with parchment paper.
• Fill with soil and spread evenly.
• Plant seeds according to instructions.
• Lightly water and place in a warm, sunny spot.
• Observe and care for the seedlings as they grow.

Additional Activities For Planting With Kids:

• Track plant growth by drawing your predictions
• Write about your experience in a garden journal
• DIY plant labels with popsicle sticks. You can even make up a name for yoru seedlings
• Compare how seeds grow in the egg carton versus how seeds grow in the milk carton. Which grows the fastests?
• Place some seeds near the window and some seeds under light. Which grows the fastest?
• Talk about how the nonliving containers are helping the living plants grow.

I hope this post helps you with your DIY activity of planting with kids!

These activites are such a great way to teach kids about living and nonliving things. Understanding the difference between living and nonliving things helps kids see the world in a more realistic way.

Remember, living things can grow, change, and need food and water to survive! Non living things do not – but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t important!

Related Posts:

• 5 Easy Earth Day Activities for 2 year olds That Will Actually Keep Them Busy
• 9 Earth Day Emergent Reader Ideas To Make Your Students Say “I Love The Earth”!
• Earth Day Stations: A Creative Activity You Need to Try

This blog post is about Earth Day Jeopardy questions with fun facts about our Earth!

Earth Day Background

Earth Day is on April 22 each year! According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Gaylord Nelson is the founder of Earth Day. At the time Gaylord Nelson was a Wisconsin Senator. The first Earth Day had twenty million Americans participate (source). If you’re looking for a great way to talk about Earth Day with your students, check out this short video about Earth Day: https://youtu.be/WbwC281uzUs. 

Water Questions

1.) Water is composed of these two elements. What is oxygen and hydrogen?

2.) The percentage of Earth that is saltwater. What is 97%?

3.) Washing clothes at this temperature will save energy. What is cold?

4.) This is the percentage of available, drinkable freshwater available on Earth right now. What is 1%

5.) This is the main source of water usage in homes accounting for nearly 30% of an average home’s water consumption. What are toilets?

Free Download on Teachers Pay Teachers

The Living World

1.) The process where plants use sunlight to make food from carbon dioxide and water generating oxygen as a byproduct. What is Photosynthesis?

2.) A very dry, barren region with little rain and vegetation and a very warm climate. What is a desert?

3.) A very dry, barren region with little rain and vegetation and a very warm climate. What is a desert?

4.) This shows the continuous movement of water with the Earth and atmosphere. What is the water cycle?

5.) An English naturalist known for his theory of natural selection which became the foundation of evolutionary studies. Who is Charles Darwin?

6.) A species that other species in an ecosystem largely depend on. If it were removed the ecosystem would change drastically, ex. Bees, turtles, elephants. What are keystone species?

Free Download on Teachers Pay Teachers

Climate Change

1.) The warming effect that takes place on Earth caused by greenhouses trapped in the atmosphere. What is the greenhouse gas effect?

2.)Two gases that are the most prominent greenhouse gases contributing to global warming. What is carbon dioxide and methane?

3.) The consequence of climate change that happens because warm water expands and melting glaciers add to ocean volume. What is sea level rise?

4.) The cause for the rapid increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and global warming, according to most scientists. What are humans?

5.) The reason it can be cold and snowy during the winter, but our planet is still experiencing global warming. What is the difference between weather and climate?

Free Download on Teachers Pay Teachers

Environmental History

1.) The first Earth Day. What is April 22, 1970?

2. The agency that protects people and the environment from significant health risks, sponsors and conducts research, and develops and enforces environmental regulations. What is the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?

3.) The person know as the most environmental president because under his presidency the EPA was formed along with the Clean Air Act, Water Pollution Control Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act. Who is President Nixon?

4.) The book written in 1962 by Rachel Carson that influenced the environmental movement. What is Silent Spring?

5.)The year the EPA created the Office of Environmental Justice noting that low-income, minority communities were more likely to be exposed to lead, contaminated fish, air pollution, hazardous waste, and agricultural pesticides. What is 1992?

Free Download on Teachers Pay Teachers

Plants and Animals

1.) The elimination of all the individuals of a particular time. This is the death of a species that is a natural and common event in biological evolution. What is extinction?

2.) The nonliving things that influence an organism. What are abiotic factors?

3.) The main function of roots to a plant. What helps the plant absorb water and minerals?

4.) Animals that eat both plants and animals. What are omnivores?

5.) The animal known as ‘Farmer’s Friends’ a.) Earthworms b.) Rats c.) Snakes  What are earthworms?

I hope you loved this blog post all about Earth Day Jeopardy Questions. 

​This Earth Day, use these Earth Day Trivia questions to have a little friendly competition with your students! 

Free Download on Teachers Pay Teachers

Other Posts You May Like:

• 12 Best Eye-Opening Environmental Movies For Students to Inspire on Earth Day (with FREE discussion questions!)
• The Most Adorable Earth Day Treat Ideas and Gifts From Teachers (Easy + Fun!)
• 30 Earth Day Challenge Ideas For Busy People Who Care About the Environment

From Katherine Johnson’s pivotal calculations that sent astronauts to space, to Dr. Kizzamekia Corbett’s development of COVID-19 vaccine, the resilience, and brilliance of Black minds have pushed humanity forward.

Black History Month is so incredibly important to me because it gives Black Americans the opportunity to shine and for an entire month our rich and diverse history is on full display for the country. Despite being excluded from opportunities and facing discrimination, Black History Month STEM leaders have persisted, creating solutions and advancing knowledge for the betterment of all.

Here are the 35 Black History Month STEM leaders you should know:

1. Wanda Austin

Aerospace engineer and former CEO of The Aerospace Corporation

Aerospace engineer and former CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, Austin broke barriers in a male-dominated field. Her leadership shows the importance of perseverance and representation in STEM. Wanda Austin is also the first woman and African-American to lead the University of South Carolina.

2. Benjamin Banneker

Mathematician and astronomer

Banneaker was born a free African-American, but faced harsh prejudices and inequalities which came to be common practices to African-Americans in the United States. Banneker received a formal education which was incredibly uncommon for an African -American and despite racial injustices and socioeconomic systems set up to favor whites, Banneaker went on to accomplish several milestones would seem impossible for any Black person at that time to achieve. In fact, President George Washington and Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson stated that African-Americans were inferior to whites, while publications about Bannekers work in the Federal City praised his ability stating he “clearly proves that Mr. Jefferson’s concluding that race of men were void of mental endowments, was without foundation” (The White House). These incredible achievements include:

• Creating an almanac for farmers, Benjamin Banneker’s Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia Almanack and Ephemeris, for the Year of Our Lord 1792 (Library of Congress)
• Assisting with surveying and construction of the new Federal City, White House, and Capitol Building
• Advocating that Black people were just as capable as whites
• Prove that free Black people would allow them to prove their abilities are the same as whites

He used his intellect and passion for STEM to conquer racial stereotypes, demonstrate resilience, and abolish the nation’s racial qualifiers needed for success.

3. Patricia Bath

Inventor of laser cataract surgery

An ophthalmologist and inventor, Bath developed laser cataract surgery, overcoming gender and racial discrimination in medicine. Her work emphasizes the value of innovation and fighting for inclusion in healthcare.

4. David Blackwell

Mathematician and statistician, first Black-tenured professor at UC Berkeley

A mathematician and the first Black tenured professor at UC Berkeley, Blackwell excelled despite racial barriers in academia. His journey highlights the importance of excellence and persistence in education. He is known as one of the most influential figures in statistics.

5. Guion Bluford

First Black astronaut in space

The first Black astronaut in space, Bluford faced racial prejudice but excelled as an aerospace engineer and Air Force officer. His achievements inspire breaking barriers and pursuing ambitious dreams.

6. Otis Boykin

Inventor of the improved electrical resistor

An engineer and inventor, Boykin improved electrical resistors, making devices like pacemakers more reliable. Despite systemic racism, his dedication to innovation teaches perseverance in the face of adversity.

7. Marie Van Brittan Brown

Inventor of the first home security system

A nurse and inventor, Brown created the first home security system in response to rising crime. Her ingenuity highlights the importance of addressing community issues through technology.

8. Kimberly Bryant

Founder of Black Girls CODE

Founder of Black Girls CODE, Bryant champions diversity in tech by empowering young Black girls to learn programming. Her work teaches the importance of mentorship and opening doors for future generations.

9. George Washington Carver

Agricultural scientist and inventor

An agricultural scientist, Carver promoted crop rotation and invented peanut-based products. Born into slavery, his life reflects the power of education and innovation in overcoming poverty.

10. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett’s

Developed COVID-19 vaccine

An immunologist and lead scientist in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Corbett played a crucial role in the global pandemic response. As a Black woman in a high-profile scientific role, she faced challenges navigating racial and gender biases in the medical field. Her work highlights the importance of representation in healthcare and inspires young scientists to pursue careers in immunology and public health. Dr. Corbett’s contributions remind us that diversity in research leads to groundbreaking advancements that benefit humanity.

11. Mark Dean

Inventor of the personal computer and color PC monitor

A computer engineer, Dean co-invented the personal computer and holds multiple patents. Often overlooked, his contributions highlight the need to recognize Black innovators in technology.

12. Marie Maynard Daly

First Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry in the U.S.

The first Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry in the U.S., Daly conducted vital research on hypertension. Her journey shows the importance of determination and education in science.

13. Charles Drew

Pioneer of blood plasma storage

A pioneer in blood plasma storage, Drew’s innovations saved countless lives during WWII. Despite facing racial segregation, his legacy underscores the importance of advocating for equity in healthcare.

14. Annie Easley

NASA mathematician and computer scientist

A NASA mathematician and computer scientist, Easley contributed to space programs despite being discriminated against. Her story highlights the value of perseverance and adaptability in STEM.

15. Clarence “Skip” Ellis

First African American to earn a PhD in computer science

The first African American to earn a PhD in computer science, Ellis made advances in computing but faced isolation in academia. His success teaches the importance of breaking ground for others.

16. Aprille Ericsson-Jackson

Aerospace engineer at NASA

A NASA aerospace engineer, Ericsson-Jackson broke barriers by being the first Black woman to earn a PhD in mechanical engineering from Howard. She exemplifies the power of persistence and passion for space exploration.

17. Lisa Gelobter

Computer scientist who helped develop GIF technology

A computer scientist, Gelobter helped develop GIF technology. She navigated a male-dominated field, showing the impact of creativity and tech innovation.

18. Frank Greene

Pioneering Silicon Valley technologist

One of the first Black technologists in Silicon Valley, Greene created faster computer memory systems. His career highlights the importance of trailblazers in technology.

19. Shirley Anne Jackson

Physicist and telecommunications pioneer

A physicist and telecommunications pioneer, Jackson was the first Black woman to earn a PhD from MIT. Her contributions show how science can drive societal advancement.

20. Mae Jemison

First Black woman astronaut in space

The first Black woman in space, Jemison also practiced medicine and championed STEM education. She inspires young people to dream big and pursue diverse interests.

21. Katherine Johnson

NASA mathematician who helped with early space missions

A NASA mathematician, Johnson’s calculations were critical to early space missions. Despite racial and gender discrimination, her accuracy and brilliance helped shape history.

22. Erika Johnson

Engineer and satellite technology innovator at NASA

An engineer and innovator at NASA, Johnson advanced satellite technology, showcasing the importance of Black women in space exploration.

23. Lonnie Johnson

NASA engineer and inventor of the Super Soaker

An engineer and inventor, Johnson created the Super Soaker and contributed to NASA projects. His perseverance shows the value of curiosity and creativity.

24. Percy Lavon Julian

Chemist and pioneer in chemical synthesis

A chemist who synthesized medical drugs, Julian faced numerous obstacles as a Black scientist. His achievements highlight the role of persistence in advancing medicine.

25. Robert Henry Lawrence Jr.

First Black astronaut selected by NASA

The first Black astronaut selected by NASA, Lawrence’s career was cut short by tragedy. His legacy reminds us of the sacrifices made to advance racial equality in space exploration.

26. Jerry Lawson

Engineer who developed the first video game cartridge system

An engineer, Lawson developed the first video game cartridge, shaping the gaming industry. His story emphasizes the importance of Black innovators in entertainment technology.

27. Lewis Latimer

Engineer who improved the light bulb and telephone

An engineer, Latimer improved light bulb and telephone technology, working alongside Edison and Bell. His story highlights the contributions of Black inventors to everyday life.

28. Elijah McCoy

Engineer known for the automatic lubricator for trains

An engineer known for his automatic lubricator, McCoy’s inventions enhanced train efficiency. The term “The Real McCoy” reflects his standard of excellence.

29. Garrett Morgan

Inventor of the traffic signal and gas mask

An inventor, Morgan developed the traffic signal and gas mask. His creations underscore the impact of Black inventors on public safety.

30. Norbert Rilliex

Chemical engineer and inventor of the sugar refining process

A chemical engineer, Rillieux revolutionized sugar refining. His success, despite societal racism, exemplifies innovation under pressure

31. Valerie Thomas

NASA physicist and inventor of 3D imaging technology

A NASA physicist, Thomas invented 3D imaging technology. Her work teaches the importance of Black women’s contributions to space science.

32. Charles Henry Turner

Zoologist and pioneer in animal behavior studies

A zoologist, Turner was the first to prove insects can learn. His studies of animal behavior encourage curiosity and scientific exploration.

33. Granville T. Woods

Inventor and electrical engineer with over 60 patents

An inventor and engineer, Woods held over 60 patents, enhancing railway systems. His life represents resilience in the face of systemic racism.

34. Arthur B.C. Walker Jr.

Astrophysicist and pioneer in solar physics research

An astrophysicist, Walker developed instruments to study the sun. His work inspires students to pursue space science.

35. Abe M. Zarem

Engineer and inventor in aerospace

An engineer in aerospace, Zarem’s inventions advanced missile technology. His career showcases the importance of innovation in national defense.

I hope you learned more about these 35 Black History Month STEM leaders you should know:

Let’s continue to amplify Black voices, advocate for equal representation, and create inclusive spaces where brilliance can thrive.

Related Posts:

• 27 Powerful and Influential Black History Month STEM Quotes
• 12+ Black-Owned Brands on Amazon You Need to Try Now

Wintertime is tough for me personally and professionally. Something about the cold weather and the dark days make me want to stay in the couch, under the covers with a warm blanket and my Christmas tree. Of course,e this isn’t reality and as much as I’d love to stay cozied up on the couch until springtime, that just isn’t realistic.

Instead, I like to find ways to bring fun into the classroom with different winter activities to make the classroom fun.

We’ve created an entire packet full of hot chocolate activities to help you make your classroom fun during the cold winter days!

1. Counting Marshmallows

Have your students use marshmallows to practice their math skills! Using my “how many hot chocolates” counting sheets, have the students place marshmallows on the counting sheets to practice counting.

2. Addition and Subtraction

Use m&m candies with the hot chocolate subtraction and addition sheets to help students with math! They can place and m&m on each of the hot chocolate mugs to help with with completing the math problem.

3. Read or Listen To a Book

I love to play these read-alouds as I’m prepping materials for an activity.

4. Create A Word

Did you know January 31 is National Hot Chocolate Day? This is a perfect opportunity to bring hot chocolate activities into the classroom. Have your students create words from National Hot Chocolate Day! You can do this as an anchor chart activity, or break students into groups and see how many words students can write given a certain time.

5. Hot Chocolate Descriptive Writing

Have your students practice their descriptive writing by asking students to describe what they like most about hot chocolate!

6. Hot Chocolate Sensory Bin

7. Hot Chocolate Number Order and ABC Order

Use the cut and paste activity here for this fun game to help your students with number orders and alphabet order.

8. Hot Chocolate Bingo

9. Hot Chocolate Mug

Have students design their own hot chocolate mug!

10. How To Writing

Use this cut an paste activity to have your student create the right order for the perfect cup of hot chocolate. Then, have students make their own cup of hot chocolate!

11. Sing along to the “Hot Chocolate” song!

I hope you enjoyed these ideas for hot chocolate activities to help you make your classroom fun during the cold winter days!

Other Posts You Might Like:

• Teaching With Pre K Fruits and Vegetables Activities to Spark Imagination
• Making Composting Understandable For Kids
• Recycling Sorting Game That Will Make Waste Understandable For Kids

I’ve had years of personal experience making composting understandable for kids! As an environmental educator for the past seven years, I have a range of experience breaking down complicated concepts into a language that is easy for kids to understand. One of my first experiences in environmental education was teaching children how to compost. Specifically, teaching 5th graders.

I was an intern for the county where I attended college and worked for the Public Schools Environmental Department. Part of my intern project was to create a composting program and teach students how to compost in their schools. The idea was to train the oldest elementary students about what could and could not be composted and lead them to teach the younger students. Ultimately, we wanted the students to feel confident in their composting so they could continue the program even after we graduated.

Using that experience, I created a helpful blog post for you to use for your kids! In this post, you’ll learn more about composting, receive some helpful resources, and an activity to do with your student.

This post is all about making composting understandable for kids.

What is composting?

Composting is the recycling of organic material. The material breaks down or decomposes, to form rich soil. 

Essentially, your waste turns into fertilizer. Composting takes your food scraps, leaves, grass clippings, and molded fruit and turns it into rich soil that will make your plants thrive. 

How does this happen? The power of decomposition.

Aerobic decomposition occurs when organic matter decomposes in the presence of oxygen. This is what happens with compositing.

Living organisms, or microbes, feed on organic matter (your green and brown items!), but they need air to breathe!

FEELING UNSURE ABOUT WHAT TO COMPOST?

Download this free, simple list of what to compost!

Download

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

Built with Kit

Composting and Microbes

Microbes are doing all the work for composting. They are the driving force turning our kitchen waste into fertilizer gold.

To make composting understandable for kids, explain to them our job is to keep the microbes happy.

According to the EPA, microbes need the following items to decompose organic matter (make our compost): Oxygen (air), moisture (water), small pieces, and adequate temperature.

• Oxygen: This is accomplished by turning the pile! Microbes need air to breathe.
• Moisture: This is accomplished by allowing natural rainfall in your compost pile or intentional watering. All living things need water, including microbes!
• Smaller Pieces: This is accomplished by grinding, chipping, and shredding materials. Smaller pieces allow microorganisms to more easily munch and break down the organic material.
• Adequate Temperature: This is accomplished by making sure the temperature is warm enough for your microbes. If the temperature is too slow it can slow down the microbe action!

Composting For Kids With Peppa Pig

Composting For Older Kids

Composting for Older Kids/Adults

How do I start composting?

To start composting you’ll need a few things. Choose items whichever items you have on hand from the carbon list and nitrogen list. You’ll need items from both list, but you do not need every item. The purpose is to recycle what you already have into organic soil, not to seek or purchase items. Use what you have.

Materials You’ll Need:

• A bin (or open area)
• Water
• Carbon-rich materials (Brown)
  • Shredded paper
  • Leaves
  • Pine Needles
  • Sawdust
  • Cardboard
• Nitrogen-rich materials (Green)
  • Leftover kitchen scraps
  • Coffee grinds (with filter)
  • Plants and grass clippings
• Something to turn the compost
• Air

Here is a list of easy beginner items you SHOULD put in the compost bin:

• Dry leaves
• Lawn clippings
• Plants
• Fruit and vegetables that are going bad in your fridge
• Crushed egg shells
• Coffee grounds and filters
• Teabags

What shouldn’t I put in the compost bin?

Your compost is not a garbage can. Although composting takes food “waste” and turns it into fertilizer quality of materials still matters, certain foods and materials DO NOT belong in the compost bin.

For example, leftover kitchen scraps are excellent for compositing, it is important to know what kinds of kitchen scraps you should compost.

Everything from your kitchen is NOT good for the compost bin.

In addition, compost breaks down organic materials. non-organic materials should be kept out of your compost bin.

Please note, if your compost is STINKY or WET add more brown. In contrast, if your compost is DRY add more green and add water.

Here is a list of items you SHOULD NOT put in the compost bin:

• Meat
• Baked goods
• Dairy/eggs
• Fruit stickers
• Cooking Oil

Benefits of composting with kids

1.) Composting teaches kids patience

Compost is not a quick process. Although the act of composting is fairly simple, it can take months to years for compost to adequately break down into a useful form.

It can take three to twelve months for composting to be ready for use.

2.) Composting teaches kids to rethink waste

Kids will think twice about what they eat and what happens to their waste!

One of the most rewarding parts of kids understanding how composting works is watching them stare at their plate and work through what is compostable and what isn’t.

Watch out! Once your child gets good at understanding the difference between organic, compostable materials, and those that are not they will hold you accountable! OPT-IN: Composting sheet

3.) Composting guides kids to gain an appreciation for the environment

Composting is rewarding in the sense that it teaches kids to reduce their waste, understand how organic waste can be repurposed, and apply that repurposed organic waste (their compost) to plants for gardening!

It’s a beautiful cycle of environmentalism and STEM education.

Composting Activity for Kids: Compost, Recycle and Sort

Compost, Recycle, and Sort Activity

Try this composting, recycling, and trash sort! This is a classic game that is so much fun. Students can even sort out whether compost items carbon items are nitrogen or carbon.

Your students will LOVE this composting activity for kids! With this bin sorting activity, kids will be able to complete a recycling sort, a compost sort, a trash sort, and combinations of each! To make the activity reusable, simply laminate the sheets and use velcro on the icons. This can be used over and over again! Use this activity to reinforce the types of items that can be composted and whether they are carbon or nitrogen items. Your kids will love learning about what goes into the right bin and how to recycle right. This education activity can be used for students in pre-k to 5th grade. This hands-on Earth Day activity is completely done for you! Just print and cut with the option to laminate and use velcro for longer use. 

This activity includes:

• Compost sorting sheet: nitrogen (greens) or carbon (browns)
• Compost versus Trash sorting sheet
• Compsot versus Recycling sorting sheet
• Recycling versus Trash sorting sheet
• 42 icons to mix and match for the sorting activity
• An answer key

Composting Activity for Kids: Foldable Sequencing Activity

This is an engaging activity to teach your students about composting!

The foldable sequencing activity is perfect for introducing kids to the concept of turning food scraps and organic material into nutrient-rich soil. The activity is designed for hands-on learning and also guides students through what belongs in a compost bin and how composting helps the environment.

This activity includes:

• Foldable sequencing activity
• Sorting activity
• Word search

Composting Activity for Kids: Compost In a Bottle

Make composting understandable for kids with this STEM activity! Yes, you can make an easy, small composter at home. Here is how you do it!

Materials you’ll need:

• Make your own compost from a 2-liter bottle
• Empty 2-liter bottle
• Dirt from outside
• Food Scraps
• Plant scraps
• Pieces of paper
• Scissors
• Spray bottle
• Old lid (I used a lid from an empty yogurt container) or plate to catch water
• Towel or Duct Tape (I’ve found duct tape works better)

Directions: How to Make Compost in a Bottle

• Cut the top off the bottle and poke some small holes in the bottom
• Place the lid/plate under the bottle
• Add dirt to the bottom of the bottle
• Next, add pieces of paper
• Then, add plant scraps and food scraps
• Spritz with water
• Continue this process until the bottle is filled
• Place the bottle in the sun
• Place a kitchen towel to cover over the bottle when not in use OR use duct tape to tape the bottle closed (I’ve found this works better)
• Stir (or shake) the bottle every few days
• Have your student observe what happens over time

If you’re looking to start a larger compost here is the bin we use!

STEM concepts to connect to composting

Here are a few subjects which tie nicely into composting:

• Biodegradable versus Recyclable (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Lesson)
• Carbon and Nitrogen 
• Decomposition/ Decomposers
• Waste Reduction
• Life Science

Additional Composting Resources

• Do The Rot Thing
• Composting in the Classroom
• Composting Guide

I encourage you to try this activity to help making composting understandable for kids! Allow your kids the opportunity to get dirty, ask questions, and have fun learning something new!

Related Posts:

• 5 Beginner Composting Tips To Make Better Compost
• The Best Way To Start Composting For Busy Moms
• Edible Dirt Cup Activity: An Incredibly Easy Way To Celebrate Earth Day With Kids
• 9 Best Earth Day Family Activities Your Kids Will Love