C is for Continents: Felt Map Geography Project for Kids

 

Looking for a hands-on way to teach your kids about the seven continents of the world? This DIY felt map project is part of my ongoing Geography Projects from A to Z series, and it’s such a fun and tactile way to help children learn world geography.

While this project took me longer than expected (cutting out continents is no small task!), it turned out beautifully and is one of our favorite geography learning tools so far.

 

 

What We’re Using

This activity pairs with the book Geography from A to Z  by Jack Knowlton. It’s an alphabetical introduction to geography terms and features vibrant illustrations.

Now we’re on to C is for Continents, and this one brings the whole world into your hands—literally!

1. Print a Large World Map Template

Head to this site to print a large map on multiple pages. I used this as a guide to trace and cut out each continent.

2. Cut Out the Continents

Print and cut each continent from paper first, then pin each piece onto a different color of felt. Carefully cut out the shapes.

Note: I simplified a few areas by trimming off smaller islands and peninsulas. It was hard to do—but necessary for this hands-on version!

 

 

 

3. Prepare the Board

Cut a large piece of blue felt to fit your tri-fold project board. Use tacky glue (watered down slightly) and a foam brush to glue the felt onto the board. Secure the edges with paperclips or binder clips until it dries completely.

 

 

 

4. Assemble the World Map

Once the background is dry, put the map together!  Assemble each felt continent onto the blue felt board using your printed map as a reference for placement.

 

 

 

 

 

Why This Project Works

This interactive felt map makes a fantastic geography visual aid. Kids can:

• Identify and label each of the seven continents

• Practice spatial recognition by replacing continents like a puzzle

• Use it as a base for further learning—adding labels, animals, landmarks, or cultural icons from each continent

It’s a great introduction for young learners and adaptable for older kids, too.

Learning Extensions

• Label the Continents: Add Velcro labels or name tags your child can match and place.

• Add Oceans: Cut and label the five oceans to add to the background.

• Cultural Exploration: Add felt people, animals, or food from each continent.

• Play Matching Games: Use cards or objects to match with the correct continent.

• Memory Challenge: Remove all continents and see how many your child can place correctly!

 

I love how it turned out!

I am excited to create some more fun flannel sets to use with our big board now.