Activity: Fossil Dig

Remember when you were a kid and you were absolutely in love with dinosaurs and you went on fossil digs all the time? Create the same fun experience for your own kids to make a long summer day fun and exciting.
What you need:
A small plastic children’s swimming pool or sandbox
Playground sand
Plaster of Paris
Fossil molds (you create)
Small paintbrushes and plastic shovels for digging

First, create your “fossils” using the Plaster of Paris. To create dinosaur tracks, take plastic animals and make footprints in the plaster. You can even use seashells to make fossils. Many local hobby stores have mold kits you can buy that will provide you with several shapes such as fish, dinosaur bones and leaves. For younger children, paint the molds so that they will have an easier time finding them. Place the swimming pool or sand box in the shade and fill with sand. Hide the fossils; some may be hidden when you first begin to pour the sand so that it makes it more fun and challenging. For some fun and learning before the dig, teach your children about a few of your favorite dinosaurs by showing them pictures or even watching a movie such as Disney’s “Dinosaur.” Now, let the dig begin!