Tips
Social Studies ( History , Civics, Geography)
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OK, people, we are in EUROPE! TRAVEL!! COVID19 might create some restrictions on how
far you can go, but it seems history is everywhere here, and you might investigate your town
or village to learn some interesting facts! We are lucky enough to be surrounded by living
history and museums with items older than the USA! Take advantage of it. Double down on
the learning by reading or discussing unique historical facts about where you are going.
With today’s computers, you can “cut & paste” your way to a cool treasure hunt. Printout
photos of things to look for during an excursion. Souvenir purchase contingent upon finding
items listed !
A presidential election year is a great time to learn about the election process. Have kids
track delegates per candidate. Bonus geography lesson when you use a US map to indicate
delegate commitments by state. Math bonus when you create a graph using delegate counts
by state or candidate. Have them help mail your absentee ballot!
Study landforms by CLIMBING some of them! Teach orienteering along the way. Have a
compass ready. Explain how a compass works as you use it. Topographic and contour map phone
apps can also enhance learning.
If possible, visit sites of famous historical events. Read a book or watch a movie aboutthe
event before the trip.
Some museums are opening up as the COVID 19 case numbers recede. If you can’t visit one in
person, try some online virtual tours. Many museums created these during closures. Take
advantage of them.
Post a world map in your child’s room and have them mark off states and countries visited. You
can also set one up of the new country you live in and mark off cities and places visited. This
may spur them to want to visit even more places!
Try your hand at an art history project. Make stained glass after visiting and viewing some of
the amazing stained glass found in churches across Europe. There’s probably one right near
your home! Do a brass rubbing (AKA tomb or gravestone rubbing) at church tombs or
graveyards. (creepy, but cool) Investigate history of the church or families by talking to church
officials. Ask permission from them before making your rubbing.
If you live off post and have local national neighbors with kids, consider joint excursions to
parks or just to town. You’d be surprise how much kids pick up on local culture from spending
time with other children. It might be a good opportunity to learn a few words in the language.
Social Studies APPs & LINKS:
Duolingo -iOS & Android
Ben’s Guide to US Government
World Atlas
50 States
iCivics
Social Studies for Kids
National Women’s History Museum
Presidents vs. Aliens - iOS & Android
Ancient Civilizations
Seterra – map quiz site