I have a fascination with ancient Greece and its history. It frequently intersects my art and poetry.
My oldest daughter Lizzie has a cool ancient history class on Outschool. I think culture is important. I also teach the kids ancient history myself. They receive it well.
Free Ancient Greece Learning Resources
Free document. Ancient Greece Learning Ideas with images and 49 ideas for learning about Greek history and ancient Greek culture. Download yours through this link:
Read our blog as we have shared ancient Greek inspired poetry, lesson plans, mythology, art, paper dolls, and more.
Follow us as I will be creating more materials based on these stunning images. I created this ebook to use it in my daughter’s home education, so you will see much more on this topic.
I’m so excited to share a special FREE resource with you today! This parent guide is packed with creative ideas to help your kids dive into the beauty and history of Ancient Greece. It’s perfect for homeschoolers who want to spark curiosity and make learning come alive through art, history, and storytelling.
But wait—there’s more! 🏛️ If you love this guide, imagine pairing it with stunning, high-quality photographs of Ancient Greece. Our Greek Images eBook, available on Etsy for a super affordable price, offers 39 captivating images of ancient ruins, famous cities, sculptures, and more. These pictures are the perfect complement to your lessons and will immerse your kids in the magic of the past while making your homeschool space even more inspiring!
What You’ll Get with the Free Guide
Creative activity ideas tailored for ages 10–12
Ways to use art and storytelling to engage your kids
Tips on how visuals can transform learning into an unforgettable adventure
Why Pair It with the Greek Images eBook?
Our eBook includes vibrant, carefully curated photographs that go beyond what you’ll find online. They’re perfect for:
Classroom decor to set the mood for your Ancient Greece lessons
Inspiring art and writing projects
Creating digital or physical history presentations
And if you’re ready to bring Ancient Greece to life with gorgeous visuals, check out the Greek Images eBook on Etsy. Every purchase supports our growing library of homeschool resources, and there’s so much more to come!
Let’s make history fun, beautiful, and unforgettable—for your kids and for you. 🏺✨
This free document also contains some high quality images
This document is included in my bundle for sale on Etsy. Get the Stunning Ancient and modern Greece images on Etsy through this link:
We loved learning about Athena, and we drew lots of Athena images. I did not share with you, my Athena paper doll. I have a bad excuse. It was imperfect… I get it, it is not a good trait to teach my daughters, to be a perfectionist, so, I will show you on my next post. I will re-create my Athena paper doll until it is perfect. Those are opposing statements, but I will show you the imperfect job, then I will recreate and perfect.
But this is not about me, or my perfectionism.
This is about Lilli.
I sent Lilli to the computer to work on her Duolingo lesson. But I got distracted by a funny picture of one of the Duolingo characters “dressed” as the Venus of Boticelli. I had been meaning to show Lilli because of how funny it looks and the fact that Lilli knows about Venus and that painting (I am a bit obsessed with the goddess).
Since we learned about Athena, the next goddess we were going to learn about was Aphrodite. Of course, Venus is the Roman name for Aphrodite. Lilli likes Aphrodite even more than Athena, she said. I realized that we must not forget Artemis….
I started with Athena on purpose. I intended to initiate the ancient goddess club with the wise one. Obviously.
About Lilli’s Boticelli inspired Venus:
I was making fun of this hilarious Venus inspired character when I started talking to Lilli of the famous painting which she already knows and considers sus(picious), because, well, Venus is undressed in the painting and covering up with her fabulous hair, just like this hilarious character is covering up with his beard.
The painting is of her birth. According to myth, she was born fully grown like Athena, with one difference, Athena was born in full armor, Venus, was born fully grown and without clothes. Int he very gorgeous Boticelli painting, Venus is being offered a gorgeous cloth to cover herself up.
Duolingo’s Oscar as Venus (Inspired by the famous Boticelli painting)
Between one joke and the next, we were looking up the famous Boticelli picture. We saw that there were countless pictures of it for sale and Lilli was amazed at how expensive they were, and I told her that is really nothing for a copy of one of the most famous paintings in the world. One of the most reproduced paintings ever.
I realized that the original painting is so old that it precedes copyright laws and thus it is completely free to be copied and used in any way and even to sell. I immediately told Lilli that she should draw her, not thinking anything of it. I opened Duolingo and went to work with Lizzie on her story, I will write about that story as soon as she is ready, but it is a marvelous project.
While I was sitting with Lizzie at her computer, Lilli calls me, and she shows me this incredible Venus art! I was speechless.
Venus of Boticelli by Lilli
Lilli dressed her Venus! That was sweet. Something about her wearing rags, though, she said since the Greeks tied their clothes. But I am not certain why she dressed Venus in rags but for a child, it is much better than in her birth suit. So, I take her creativity, and I loved it.
I am simply in love with that hair, and you bet I will spend the better of the next 5 years drawing my Venus of Boticelli. That was a joke….
Boticelli and his birth of Venus painting
Take advantage and learn some art history through the links below:
(How are the kids’ language learning going? Lizzie did her first ever Duolingo class today, that was a huge success, and she noticed what she didn’t know, of course, but I noticed how much she actually knew. Perspectives.). Lilli and Vivi both do Duolingo Spanish. I have to remind them, but they understand so much. I am getting Alex (4) to understand what it means that other language Spanish, huh, he doesn’t fully get it yet, but he likes papas fritas (fried potatoes)….
Meanwhile, I am learning three languages. I will have to go back to the drawing board with my initiative for teaching the children languages. However, the children have learned Spanish, they simply are not language “nerds” like me. The thing is I love language learning. They love art and games. To me language is art and fun.
NOTE: I used the word nerd full of love and with no judgement. I think language nerds are some of the coolest people ever. Perspectives.
Collaboration with Lilli (9), who helped me create the lesson, game, graphics, and learned alongside me.
I saved many Athena photos, illustrations, and more to this Pinterest board. For inspiration click and see the different Athena goodies with links to more Athena content.
Athena was the Ancient Greek goddess of war and wisdom
Athena Symbols: Olive tree and owls
Athena was born fully grown in armor
Lilli’s Athena art with her ancient Greek name in capital letters.
Lesson Plan (7 to 9 year olds) Introduction to Athena in Greek Mythology
Here’s an Introduction Lesson Plan about Athena for children ages 7 to 9. It’s designed to be fun and creative, involving hands-on activities like making a paper doll, storytelling, and a coloring project to keep kids engaged while learning about Greek mythology.
Lesson Plan: Athena, the Greek Goddess of Wisdom and War
Age Group: 7-9 years old Duration: 60-90 minutes Objective: Students will learn about Athena, her role in Greek mythology, and express creativity through art, storytelling, and crafts.
Materials Needed:
Printable Athena paper doll template (with Greek dress, armor, and owl accessories)
Markers, crayons, colored pencils
Scissors, glue
Construction paper for comic book creation
Copies of Athena myth stories (simplified versions)
Athena coloring pages
Whiteboard/Chalkboard (for brainstorming)
Lesson Breakdown:
1. Introduction to Athena (10-15 minutes)
Discussion: Start the lesson by introducing Athena. Use simple language to explain that Athena is the goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts in Greek mythology. Mention that she is famous for her intelligence, bravery, and protection of the city of Athens.
Ask Questions:
What do you think a goddess of wisdom and war would do?
Why do you think people respected her so much?
Fun Fact: Share that her favorite animal is the owl because it symbolizes wisdom.
2. Create a Paper Doll (15-20 minutes)
Activity: Hand out a printable paper doll template of Athena. This template should include:
A basic doll figure (Athena)
Traditional Greek clothing (a flowing dress, armor)
Accessories like an owl, helmet, spear, and shield
Lizzie’s Athena
Instructions:
Have students color the doll and clothing, then cut out the pieces.
Glue or attach the clothing onto the doll to create their own mini Athena.
Discussion While Working:
Talk about why Athena wore armor even though she was peaceful and loved wisdom.
3. Read a Short Myth about Athena (10-15 minutes)
Storytelling: Read aloud a simplified myth about Athena. You could choose:
Athena’s Birth: How she was born from Zeus’ head.
Athena and the City of Athens: How she gave the olive tree to Athens.
Interactive Discussion:
Ask them: What was your favorite part of the story?
How do you think Athena felt when she helped the city of Athens?
4. Create a Story or Comic Book (15-20 minutes)
Activity: Provide each child with construction paper to create a simple 3-4 panel comic strip or short story. The prompt could be:
“Athena Goes on an Adventure”: Have the children imagine a fun adventure for Athena, like her helping a hero or solving a tricky problem using her wisdom.
Steps:
Draw pictures of Athena and her adventure.
Add speech bubbles or a few sentences to describe what’s happening.
Encourage Creativity: Allow the kids to come up with their own ideas, such as Athena talking to animals or meeting other gods.
5. Coloring Time (10-15 minutes)
Activity: Hand out Athena coloring pages that depict her with owls, a spear, or in her flowing gown.
Optional Discussion: While they color, discuss how Greek gods and goddesses were often drawn or sculpted in ancient times.
6. Class Sharing (10 minutes)
Share Creations: Let each student show their paper doll and comic strip or story to the class.
Encouragement: Praise their creativity and highlight fun details in their stories or drawings.
Wrap-Up:
Review: Ask them to name one thing they learned about Athena today.
Closing: End with a question to spark curiosity for next time: “If you could meet Athena, what would you ask her?”
Follow-Up Activity for Home:
Encourage students to research more about Greek mythology with their parents or continue coloring and creating new stories about Athena.
This lesson plan balances learning with creative play, making it a fun and memorable introduction to Athena and Greek mythology for younger children!
Athena Creation Myth
Creative Athena Activity Ideas
Color Athena coloring pages
Create an Athena paper doll and learn about the Ancient Greek costumes
Create a story with Athena as a character
Write an Athena song or poem
Dress up as Athena
Athena Trivia Game: Simple
Here’s a fun and easy Athena Trivia Game for children, designed to teach them about the Greek goddess in a playful way! Each question includes simple multiple-choice options to keep it engaging and interactive.
Scroll down to review your answers.
Athena Trivia Game
Question 1: Who is Athena the goddess of?
A) The Sea
B) Wisdom and War
C) Music
Question 2: What is Athena’s favorite animal, which represents wisdom?
A) Owl
B) Lion
C) Snake
Question 3: Which city in Greece is named after Athena?
A) Sparta
B) Athens
C) Crete
Question 4: What weapon does Athena usually carry in battles?
A) Bow and Arrow
B) Sword
C) Spear
Question 5: Athena was born fully grown from the head of which god?
A) Zeus
B) Hades
C) Poseidon
Question 6: What is Athena’s special tree, often associated with peace?
A) Apple Tree
B) Oak Tree
C) Olive Tree
Question 7: Which hero did Athena help in his journey to slay Medusa?
A) Perseus
B) Hercules
C) Theseus
Question 8: Athena is known for her wisdom. What does she often wear on her head as a symbol of this?
A) A crown
B) A helmet
C) A laurel wreath
Question 9: Athena never married and stayed focused on her duties. What is she often called because of this?
A) The Brave Warrior
B) The Wise Queen
C) The Virgin Goddess
Question 10: In one myth, Athena competed with Poseidon to become the patron of Athens. What gift did she give to win?
A) A magical horse
B) An olive tree
C) A golden shield
Bonus Activity:
After the quiz, encourage kids to draw their version of Athena or make up a new adventure where Athena helps a hero. This keeps them creatively engaged!
This game is simple, fun, and educational, perfect for children learning about Greek mythology!
Answers
Athena
Answer: B) Wisdom and War
Answer: A) Owl
Answer: B) Athens
Answer: C) Spear
Answer: A) Zeus
Answer: C) Olive Tree
Answer: A) Perseus
Answer: B) A helmet
Answer: C) The Virgin Goddess
Answer: B) An olive tree
Sources
Here’s a list of sources where you can learn about Athena for free, perfect for children or general mythology enthusiasts:
These sources offer a mix of simplified content for children and in-depth articles for older students or adults who want to explore Athena’s mythology further.
The Pythia, mysterious figures of ancient lore. Not myth, though.
Did you know
There were several Pythias.
The Pythias are said to have been poetesses
The Pythia spoke in cryptic messages translated by priests
She would have been a teenager, unmarried young woman, or woman past childbearing age.
Alexander the Great and many kings visited the Pythia
The Pythia influenced state, kings, and citizens with her prophecies
Pythia’s Whisper, a poem
Pythia’s Whisper
In Delphi’s sacred shadow, she speaks, Veiled in mist of ancient dreams, A breath of earth and smoke she seeks, Where truth in whispered echoes streams.
Her voice, a tremor through the veil, Glimmers of the gods, their will, In trance she rides the hidden gale, To prophesy with fervent thrill.
The chasm breathes its mystic air, A sigh of fate, a quiver deep, She dances in the temple’s lair, Where ancient secrets softly seep.
In every riddle, cosmic dance, A glimpse of truth, both fierce and sweet, The Pythia, in fleeting trance, Unfolds the world’s concealed heartbeat.
Short version
In Delphi’s shadow, veiled in mist, She breathes the gods’ ethereal kiss, In trance, her voice through secrets weaves, Prophecies in whispered leaves.
This information is from my mind, from too much reading.
The book Alexandros (this was the Spanish name, but this is my favorite book, I’ll buy this book) of his visit to Pythia.
A philologist I follow (who is not safe for home education) speaks of her poetry.
Last night, my two older daughters and I went on a deep dive of influential women of the ancient past. It was enlightening and inspirational. I had to hopefully inspire someone else. I would love to talk more about this.
Ancient influecial women
Welcome to an exciting journey through ancient history, where we’ll discover amazing women who changed the world in Greece, Egypt, and Rome. These remarkable figures were more than just pretty faces; they were pioneers in education, the arts, and leadership. Let’s dive into their inspiring stories and explore some fun activities to learn about them!
1. Sappho: The Poetess of Lesbos
Sappho was a Greek poetess known for her beautiful and emotional poetry. Her poems celebrated love, friendship, and the beauty of the world. She was a teacher and led a school of young women who were also poets.
Activity Idea: Write Your Own Poem
Encourage your child to write a short poem about something they love. It could be about their favorite place, a beloved pet, or a special memory. Help them use descriptive words and emotions like Sappho did.
2. Cleopatra: The Wise Queen of Egypt
I have not finished this Cleopatra. I made this as a paper doll for a Cleopatra game that I also have yet to finish. Yes, I am a bit of a fan, of course not of her beauty or treasure, but because of the 7 languages she spoke.
Cleopatra VII was a queen of Egypt known for her intelligence and political skill. She spoke several languages and was a patron of the arts and sciences. Cleopatra worked to improve Egypt’s economy and establish strong alliances.
Activity Idea: Create a Royal Crown
Have your child design and make a royal crown using craft materials. As they create their crown, discuss how Cleopatra was a powerful leader and what qualities made her an important figure in history.
3. Hypatia of Alexandria: The Scholar
Hypatia was a Greek mathematician and philosopher in Alexandria, Egypt. She was one of the first women to teach mathematics and astronomy. Hypatia’s work helped advance scientific knowledge and she was admired for her wisdom and learning.
Activity Idea: Stargazing and Simple Astronomy
Set up a stargazing session with your child. Use a star map to identify constellations and discuss the wonders of the night sky, just as Hypatia would have.
4. Livia Drusilla: The Influential Roman Empress
Livia Drusilla was a powerful Roman empress who played a key role in the politics of Rome. She was known for her influence over her husband, Emperor Augustus, and later her son, Emperor Tiberius. Livia was also a patron of literature and the arts.
Activity Idea: Build a Roman Villa
Create a model of a Roman villa using clay or building blocks. Discuss how Livia contributed to the arts and education, and how Roman villas were centers of learning and culture.
5. Art Prompt: Ancient Influence Collage
Encourage your child to create a collage that represents the influence of these ancient women. They can draw, cut out pictures, and use other craft materials to showcase the contributions of Sappho, Cleopatra, Hypatia, and Livia.
Poem Inspired by Ancient Wisdom
Here’s a short poem to inspire young minds:
In ancient lands, where wisdom grew, Great women shone with knowledge true. With poems, crowns, and stars so bright, They taught us to reach for the light.
Sources for Further Learning
Books for Kids: Look for children’s books about ancient history and influential women, such as “Women in Science: 50 Fearless Pioneers Who Changed the World” by Rachel Ignotofsky.
Educational Websites: Explore websites like National Geographic Kids and History for Kids for fun and interactive content on ancient civilizations. My readings yesterday were off Britannica online.
Museums and Online Resources: Many museums offer virtual tours and resources about ancient history and influential figures.
These activities and stories will not only make history come alive but also inspire your child to appreciate the contributions of women throughout time. Enjoy exploring and learning together!
If you enjoyed this, let me know so I can create more content like this.
Let us talk about Socrates, the ancient Athenian philosopher.
First, I’ll include an essay for adults, and coming soon, I’m going to share a free lesson plan for home education parents, just in case you’re looking for educational materials. If you’re a homeschooling parent, and this was helpful, let me know, I’ll be sure to create more like this.
The soon to come lesson plan will be completely free, as my gift to parents. I will continue to develop this lesson plan for use with my kids. I’ll then go about creating materials for my future lesson plan, one that will be complete. This will take a lot of time, but I’ll share a lot of sources for your studies if you’re interested in introducing your children to Ancient Philosophy. Stay tuned.
The free Lesson will include
A lesson plan to introduce kids to Ancient Philosophy and Socrates
The lesson will be tailored for children 8 -12 ( my oldest learners)
Several simple poems for reading and comprehension materials
Socrates. Valor and Fearlessness
Socrates said in his famous trial (the result of which was the Athenians killing him) that the god Apollo had prophesied that there was no wiser man than him.
Socrates went on to inspire wisdom in a level that has not been matched. His student Plato would go on to be the father of philosophy, and Plato’s student, Aristotle (Alexander the Great’s famous teacher), was the father of universities, per this course I listed below.
Source:
Listen to Famous Greeks by J. Rufus Fears, The Great Courses on Audible.
“No honest man can survive in your democracy. It is so corrupt!” Were hos words to his Athenian oppressors proving his valor and fearlessness
Murdered by the Athenians for inpiety
Socrates: The Paragon of Virtue and Philosophy
Socrates, one of the most influential figures in Western philosophy, lived in ancient Athens during the 5th century BCE. His contributions to philosophy, characterized by his commitment to virtue and his fearless stance against the political establishment, have left a lasting legacy.
Legacy and Ideas
Socrates is renowned for his contributions to ethics and epistemology. Unlike his predecessors, who often engaged in speculative and metaphysical inquiry, Socrates focused on practical ethics and the nature of human virtue. His philosophy was grounded in the belief that understanding the nature of virtue was essential for leading a good life. This approach is most famously encapsulated in his assertion that “the unexamined life is not worth living.”
Central to Socratic thought is the Socratic Method, a form of dialectical questioning that aims to stimulate critical thinking and expose contradictions. Through this method, Socrates sought to challenge assumptions and encourage deeper understanding. This approach involves asking a series of questions to help individuals arrive at their own conclusions, rather than providing them with answers. The goal is to foster clarity of thought and promote self-awareness.
Socrates also introduced the concept of “Socratic irony,” where he professed ignorance to draw out the knowledge of others. This tactic allowed him to reveal the ignorance of those who claimed to possess knowledge, thus promoting a deeper exploration of truth.
Valor and Fearlessness
Socrates’ valor and fearlessness are perhaps most evident in his interactions with Athenian politicians and his eventual trial. Socrates lived during a time of significant political turmoil in Athens. His commitment to questioning the status quo and challenging the moral and intellectual complacency of the time often put him at odds with powerful figures.
One of Socrates’ most notable acts of courage was his refusal to abandon his principles, even in the face of severe consequences. During the Peloponnesian War, Athens was under the influence of a series of politically charged events and shifts in power. Socrates remained steadfast in his commitment to questioning the moral and ethical conduct of the politicians and leaders, despite growing hostility.
Socrates’ fearlessness culminated in his trial and subsequent execution. In 399 BCE, Socrates was charged with impiety and corrupting the youth of Athens. He was sentenced to death by drinking poison hemlock. Despite the gravity of his situation, Socrates faced his fate with remarkable composure, continuing to question and discuss philosophical issues up until his final moments. His willingness to accept death rather than compromise his beliefs is seen as a testament to his commitment to truth and virtue.
Conclusion
Socrates’ legacy endures through his profound impact on philosophy and his embodiment of intellectual courage. His method of questioning, dedication to virtue, and resistance to political pressure have inspired countless individuals to seek truth and live a life of moral integrity. Socrates’ life and teachings continue to be a beacon for those who value wisdom, ethical rigor, and the courage to stand up for one’s beliefs. His unwavering pursuit of truth in the face of adversity exemplifies the highest ideals of philosophical inquiry and personal virtue.
If this was inspiring or helpful, let me know, I would love to do more like this.
Stay tuned for an upcoming free lesson plan to introduce children to Socrates and Athenian philosophy,
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