So, the 4th of July holiday has been making me think about our country, how much I really know about it and how much my children know. I am positive that my 7 year old geography wiz can kick my trash when it comes to United States trivia! Pretty sad. So, I solicited him to tell me his most favorite things that have helped him learn his geography…great ideas for your kids and for you (if you’re anything like me).
Here are Caden’s top picks:
The Scrambled States of America Game – We play this game pretty regularly around my house…and it’s never my idea! This game is great for helping kids learn states, capitals, location and nicknames for the states, $12.
This large USA wooden puzzle by Melissa & Doug is always scattered across my counters. We have lost Maine, but the show must go on. Caden loves to see how quickly he can put this puzzle together.
The Leapfrog Explorer Globe is so cool! Whenever Caden brings it out, it is quickly taken over by all surrounding adults. You use the pen to touch anywhere on the globe and it will tell you things like: the name, the capital, the population, the elevation, the size, the distance from one point to another, etc. It will even play music from the different countries! It’s pretty pricey, but a fun learning/reference toy to have in the house.
Caden loves books that have facts of every state on every page. This one gets great reviews, Our Fifty States by National Geographic. Here he can see what the state flags look like, what crops are grown, what the state bird and flower are, etc.
Not only is there the game, but there is the book The Scrambled States of America. Both of my boys think it’s so funny how the states get sick of being where they are so they decide to switch places with another state. They all end up deciding that they are exactly where they are supposed to be. Very cute and clever….and just one more way to sneak in some geography, $12!
There are lots of FREE resources and fun games online that your kids can check out:
Crayola State Coloring Pages (these are so cute!): http://www.crayola.com/free-coloring-pages/learning/social-studies/states-coloring-pages/
Click on the different states to read some fun facts!: http://factfinder.census.gov/home/en/kids/funfacts/funfacts.html
Learn about the states, the presidents, how the government works, take quizzes, play games, etc.: http://www.worldalmanacforkids.com/WAKI-Chapter.aspx?chapter_id=15
God Bless America!
Captain America rules!
I love geography!! Great post!