I love finding resources that allow my children to learn by doing. History can be a bit dry for children if all they are doing is reading from a textbook. But when history becomes something they can see, touch, create, and play with, those lessons can become so much more memorable.
We had the opportunity to review and try Epic Heroes & Heroines of the Middle Ages from Timberdoodle. This hands-on activity book introduces children to eleven memorable heroes and heroines from medieval literature, folklore, and legend—including familiar names such as Beowulf, Mulan, King Arthur, Maid Marian, and Robin Hood. Rather than simply reading about these legendary characters, children get to actually build and interact with them.
Learning Through Hands-On History
With Epic Heroes & Heroines of the Middle Ages, we created articulated paper figures from the workbook. The figures can be assembled in full color or black and white, giving kids the opportunity to either enjoy the finished artwork or add their own creativity through coloring. The best way to put the paper figures together is with small brads, we happened to have some on hand. The directions for putting the figures together is very simple, you just have to match up the letters. There is also a color picture of the figure assembled.
Eli had a fun time just playing around with the figure after assembly. He was able to put it together on his own (for the most part, the brads we had were slightly sharp so I separated the post for him). He is not a fan of too much coloring so he liked the already colored figure.
More Than Just a Craft
Not only does the book have some very exciting figures to put together, but there is so much more learning that can take place. Each character comes with a short biography that introduces children to the character’s significance and their place in medieval literature and storytelling. There is also a reading list for children who want to dig deeper into the original stories behind these legendary figures.
I love resources like this because they can easily become a springboard for additional learning. One little paper figure can open the door to an entire world of literature and history.
If you’re planning a study of the Middle Ages, this would make a fun addition to your homeschool.
The following figures are included in the book:
- Beowulf
- Mulan
- Sinbad
- Scheherazade
- King Arthur
- Queen Guinevere
- Rostam
- Don Quixote
- Ivanhoe
- Robin Hood
- Maid Marian
Sometimes historical figures can feel like names on a page. But the Epic Heroes & Heroines of the Middle Ages book can help children to understand and learn easier because it’s a creative, fun way of learning.
A Fun Addition to Your Homeschool
Figures in Motion: Epic Heroes & Heroines of the Middle Ages is recommended for ages 6+ and grades 1st+, making it a versatile resource for younger elementary-aged homeschoolers.
Whether you’re studying the Middle Ages in depth or simply looking for a fun way to introduce your children to heroes and heroines of the Middle Ages this activity book offers a creative way to combine learning and play.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this product from Timberdoodle. All thoughts and ideas are my own.
The Life We Build 