This can be a multi meeting activity or cut it down to what you can manage in one meeting.

• Get a speaker/parent/Senior Navigator to give a presentation about caves.  Discuss:
  • How they are created
  • Where they occur
  • Bat protection
  • Cave creatures
  • Safety topics
  • Terminology of formations
  • Other ideas that you find interesting
  • Here is one source, but there are many others National Caves Association
• Watch the video provided (or another) so kids can get an idea of what the inside of a cave looks like
• Set each kid up with a work area and a shoe box fitted together so the top of the box is upside down on the table and the bottom of the box is on its side so it is open toward the kid. Or just use one or the other.
• Identify the things that should go inside a cave: stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, water, bats, other critters, and whatever else you want.
• Create a cave diorama.
  • Use the homemade play dough to create the formations from the floor and ceiling.
  • Use clear glue that has been dyed using food coloring for the water.
  • Cut cardboard and glue it to the floor and ceiling if you want to stay away from the play dough mess.
• Let kids take the dioramas home when finished

If possible plan to visit an actual cave.

• Be sure to learn any protection measures in place to prevent cross contamination so the bats are protected.
• It is usually a good idea to limit your visit to one cave per day to prevent any cross contamination
• Discuss the temperature of caves and be sure to bring appropriate clothing
• If you are going with a tour determine if you need your own light sources (headlamps are preferred as they don’t get dropped…as often)
• Consider having a list of items to look for while on the tour, but usually just being in the cave is interesting on its own
• Review good listening and staying together guidelines your group has before going on any adventure
• Be sure to wash any shoes or gear if you plan other cave tours