Cacti (Cactuses) are one of the earliest plants on Earth. They have
many uses for humans so it’s great that they are still around. Prick your
interest as you explore the following activities about cacti.
CONNECT:
- Check out these cool cacti facts: https://www.scienceforkidsclub.com/cactus-plants.html (and more advanced facts at https://www.eduscapes.com/nature/cactus/index1.htm)
- How do cactus live without water? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nq-dw1nsX3Y
- Cacti are an American plant. See where they live at https://cactiguide.com/places/
-
How did a candy craze almost wipe out the barrel cactus? Read the story at https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/cactus-candy
CREATE:
- Here’s an oasis of desert-themed activities for kids: https://www.childfun.com/themes/world/desert/
- How do you eat a cactus? Find out how at https://www.timeforkids.com/g2/eating-cactus/
- Try some of these fun cactus crafts: https://www.hellowonderful.co/post/12-utterly-cute-cactus-crafts/
- Make your own prickly cactus garden by following the directions at http://www.bbc.co.uk/gardening/gardening_with_children/homegrownprojects_cactus.shtml
CARE:
- Some cacti can be poisonous; here are some safe cacti for kids and pets: https://homewarranty.firstam.com/blog/5-safe-succulents
- How do you maintain cacti? Here are tips: https://www.society.bcss.org.uk/coolcacti/grow-cacti.html
- Cacti can be dangerous – or at least ouchy. Learn what to watch for and how to treat cacti “attacks” at https://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/itchy-plants#1
- Cacti can keep you healthy; read how at https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-prickly-pear-cactus.html
CAREERS:
Are cacti your career oasis? Whether you’re thinking of growing them, protecting
them, creating art related to cacti, making cacti products, cacti can grow on
you.
https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/nps-careers.htm
