Paleontology for Kids- Digging Up Dinosaur Bones

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Ready to dig into a fun and educational adventure? This hands-on paleontology activity is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the world of dinosaurs, fossils, and ancient history. It pairs perfectly with any dinosaur unit or ancient history study—and is a great excuse to get outside and play like real scientists!

DIY Dinosaur Dig Activity

We recently created a backyard dinosaur dig with my kids and my sister’s homeschool group, and it was a huge success! The kids loved pretending to be paleontologists uncovering dinosaur bones. Here’s how you can do the same activity with your own little explorers.

How to Make DIY Dinosaur Bones

My sister prepped the bones for this activity, and they turned out amazing! The best part? They’re made from super simple materials you likely already have at home.

Supplies:

• Jumbo Popsicle Sticks
• Cotton Balls
• Masking Tape

Instructions:

1. Wrap one or two cotton balls onto the ends of each craft stick.

2. Secure them tightly with several layers of masking tape.

3. Repeat to make a full set of “bones.”

Optional Shortcut: If you’d prefer not to make your own, check seasonal stores for Halloween-style plastic bones or check your local dollar store for low-cost skeleton props.

Set Up Your Backyard Dinosaur Dig

1. Choose a Dig Site: Use a garden bed, sandbox, or even a large bin filled with sand or soil.

2. Bury the Bones: Hide the DIY bones underground, leaving small parts exposed to give younger kids a clue.

3. Provide Dig Tools: Offer small shovels, paintbrushes, and magnifying glasses to make the experience feel authentic.

Let your kids take turns excavating, examining, and reburying the bones for each other! It’s a great collaborative activity that keeps them moving and thinking.

What Kids Learn from This Paleontology Activity

This isn’t just fun—it’s educational, too! Through this activity, kids will:

• Learn basic paleontology concepts

• Practice careful observation and fine motor skills

• Explore how fossils and bones are uncovered

• Engage in imaginative role-play and teamwork

See Another Fun Dinosaur Bone Activity: Making Dinosaur Fossils

Or try this STEM project to go with the Goldilocks and the Three Dinosaurs Book!

Paleontologist Mini Reader Book