Setting up a rainforest theme in the classroom is an exciting way to get your preschoolers engaged in learning. Not only will they have fun exploring their rainforest surroundings, but they’ll also be able to learn more about this unique ecosystem and gain important knowledge about rainforests, animals, plants and conservation.

From rainforest decorations to themed activities and crafts, there are lots of ways to bring a rainforest theme into the classroom. To start off with decorating, you can incorporate rainforest elements like lush greenery, animals or other rainforest imagery on the walls or around the room.

One thing I have done in the past is purchase 9″ wide brown general purpose masking paper and unroll it and crunch and squeeze the paper together to make “vines” that I hung in the room. I also had leaves that I cut using the die cutter and strung those on green yarn and wrapped them around the vines after I hung them. The kids loved it and it was very inexpensive and easy to make.

For activities, think about incorporating rainforest-related content such as learning about specific animal species native to rainforests, plant life and rainforest conservation. You can also plan rainforest-themed arts and crafts, such as creating animal masks or rainforest collages.

I designed these Rainforest Theme Fact Posters (below) which I love! They’re so colorful and have neat factoids about animals and plant life in the rainforest. The children love learning the unusual facts and they really spruce up a bulletin board or wall space.

And if you need a movement activity for your rainforest lesson plan, I’ve got you covered! The Rainforest Yoga & Movement Pose Cards provide movement, fun and learning in one activity. Included in the cards is a Yogalore lesson plan that includes a suggested playlist, book and creative/exploring activity.

Rainforest themes in the preschool classroom not only offer a fun way to learn about rainforests, but they also give your students an opportunity to get creative and explore their imaginations while developing important learning skills. With some creative planning and thoughtful activities, you can create an environment that’s both educational and engaging for your preschoolers.