Learning About Hibernation: Resources for Kids
Fall is finally here, so it’s a great time to explore all of the changes happening outdoors. One of the big questions children may have is what happens to animals in winter. They can see birds migrating south as the weather grows colder, but what about those that stay behind? Here are some wonderful resources you can use to teach children about hibernation, including crafts, learning activities, and a beautiful book inspired by Navajo folklore.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book below for review purposes; however, all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I receive a small commission at no extra charge to you.
I was so excited to receive this absolutely gorgeous book about hibernation to review. Lump Lump and the Blanket of Dreams: Inspired by Navajo Culture and Folklore is inspired by Navajo/Diné folklore and features the weaving of Barbara Teller Ornelas, a 5th generation Master Navajo weaver whose work is displayed at the Smithsonian. Children will immediately relate to Lump Lump, a little black bear who isn’t ready to go to sleep for the winter! Inspired by Blue Bird’s song, Lump Lump and his mother begin to gather materials so that Spider Woman can make a blanket of dreams for him.
There is so much to love about this book. The artwork is stunning, showcasing the spectacular landscape of the American Southwest. The tale itself is a gentle lesson in family and community, as the forest creatures work together to help Lump Lump with his blanket of dreams. The story also demonstrates a key principle of many native cultures, which is that you always offer a gift or service to someone from whom you are asking a favor. So when the bears ask Robin to help gather the white light of the morning, for example, they make sure to gather grass for Robin’s nest.
The book is based on extensive research of Navajo culture and wildlife biology, so it lends itself easily to lesson plans on either native cultures or hibernating animals. You can find an enhanced learning bibliography and extension activities on the author’s website.
And here are even more resources you can use to teach children about hibernation:
Hibernating Animals Crafts
Hedgehog Pom Pom Craft – Red Ted Art
Easy Pine Cone Hedgehog – Red Ted Art
Hedgehog Bookmark Corner – Red Ted Art
Hedgehog Bread Rolls for Kids to Make – Rainy Day Mum
Simple Hedgehog Craft for Preschoolers – Rainy Day Mum
Hibernation Wet Felted Wool Play Mat – Rainy Day Mum
Fine Motor Hedgehog Craft – Kids Craft Room
Bear Craft for Preschoolers: Time to Hibernate – Preschool Powol Packets
Hibernation Sensory Bag – School Time Snippets
Hibernation Learning Activities
Hibernation Toddler Shelves with Printables – Welcome to Mommyhood
Winter Animals Printables for Preschool and Kindergarten – Natural Beach Living
Hibernating Winter Forest Animals Preschool Unit Study – Mama’s Happy Hive
Hibernation vs. Migration: Animal Sorting Worksheet – Totschooling
Hibernation Activities E-Book – Preschool Powol Packets
How Do Animals Prepare for Winter: Books and Activities – Edventures with Kids
Make a Hedgehog Hibernation House – Kids Craft Room
Animals in Winter Unit Study – The Natural Homeschool