South America – A Homeschool Guide for Ages 8–11

Welcome to South America!
Get ready to explore one of the most fascinating continents on Earth — home to towering mountains, dense rainforests, and some of the world’s most unusual animals! From the Amazon River to the Andes Mountains, South America is bursting with life, color, and mystery.

Your kids will love learning about the people, places, and wildlife that make this continent so amazing. They’ll meet creatures like capybaras, chinchillas, and piranhas, and explore famous landmarks such as Machu Picchu, Angel Falls, and the Galápagos Islands!

So, how do you make South America come alive for young learners?

The answer: through curiosity, creativity, and hands-on adventure!

Encourage your explorers to see how geography, animals, and cultures connect — and how every part of this continent tells a story.

Free Learning Resources

Here are some fun and free resources to help your family learn more about South America:

General

• Ducksters — Great overview of countries, landmarks, and facts.

• Kids Food Atlas — 

• Activity Village —  

• Chimu Blog — 

Free Videos & Documentaries

• This Is Peru! — Craig Lou (Part 2 here to learn about Machu Picchu)

• Easter Island — Sightseeing Spot Facts.
• Wonders of The Amazon Rainforest – Explore Nature Today.

Hands-On Activities

Learning about South America is even better when it’s hands-on!

• Rainforest Terrarium: Use a jar to create your own rainforest with layers, trees, and animals.

• South American Food Night: Try cooking arepas, empanadas, or Brazilian cheese bread together!

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Books to Explore

Add these to your homeschool reading list!

•   The Wildes: The Amazon — Roland Smith 

• Discover the World of the Aztecs, Incas, and Mayas — DK Eyewitness 
• South America — Gloria Susana Esquivel
• Late Lunch with Llamas (Magic Tree House) — Mary Pope Osborne
• Eyewitness The Amazon — DK Eyewitness

History Plus Brings It All Together

At History Plus, your bright young explorers don’t just read about places — they experience them!

With video lessons, printable worksheets, and fun crafts, your kids can travel across South America without leaving home. They’ll learn about:

• The Andes Mountains and Amazon Rainforest 

• Ancient civilizations like the Inca Empire 

• Unique wildlife found nowhere else on Earth 

• Geography, culture, and science — all in one place!

Every lesson is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Ready to explore Join History Plus and start your next adventure today!

— Janaya Allers