Liberty Square
Liberty Square is one of the most historically rich areas of the Magic Kingdom, designed to immerse guests in the spirit of colonial America during the Revolutionary War period. Open since the park’s opening day in 1971, Liberty Square was created to celebrate American history and values, with incredible attention to historical accuracy. A fun fact is that the Liberty Tree in the center of the land is a real, centuries-old oak tree that Imagineers transplanted and outfitted with thirteen lanterns, representing the original thirteen colonies. Another clever detail is the brown “stream” running through the middle of the walkway, symbolizing the waste that would have flowed through colonial streets before indoor plumbing. From the replica of the Liberty Bell to the architectural details that match styles from the 1700s, every corner of Liberty Square is crafted to bring history to life in a way that feels both authentic and inspiring.
The Ultimate Magic Kingdom Workbook makes the experience of visiting Liberty Square even richer by offering activities that blend math, poetry, and history.
The Hall of Presidents
The Hall of Presidents is one of the most historically significant and awe-inspiring attractions in the Magic Kingdom, celebrating the leaders who have shaped the United States. Open since 1971, it was inspired by Walt Disney’s original concept for a tribute to American leadership, which evolved from early plans for a "Hall of Presidents" exhibit at Disneyland. The attraction features lifelike Audio-Animatronic figures of every U.S. president, standing together on one grand stage. A fun fact is that the Great Seal of the United States embedded in the lobby floor is one of only a few official replicas authorized by the U.S. government outside of Washington, D.C. The show combines stirring visuals, powerful narration, and a moving presentation that highlights the struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of the nation across centuries.
The Ultimate Magic Kingdom Workbook extends the educational value of The Hall of Presidents by offering activities focused on presidential history and civic understanding.
Pre-K and Kindergarten
Problem Solving and Reading: Duck is tired of doing his chores (mowing the lawn and grinding the coffee beans), and decides to hold an election to replace Farmer Brown. Reading "Duck for President" by Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin offers children valuable lessons about leadership, democracy, and the electoral process. Through the whimsical story of a duck who decides to run for office, young readers learn about the importance of civic engagement and the responsibilities that come with leadership roles. The narrative introduces the concept of elections, teaching kids how different candidates present their ideas and the significance of making informed choices. Moreover, the book highlights themes of perseverance and the challenges faced in pursuit of one's goals, encouraging children to be proactive and assertive in their own lives. Ultimately, "Duck for President" serves as a playful yet informative springboard for discussions about government, decision-making, and the role each individual plays in shaping their community.
Lower and Upper Elementary
Reading, Comprehension, and History: Read Who was Abraham Lincoln? and answer the comprehension questions in this free printable. Reading "Who Was Abraham Lincoln?" provides elementary students with an engaging overview of one of America's most significant historical figures. The book introduces young readers to Lincoln's early life, challenges, and the values he upheld, such as equality and perseverance. By learning about his role in the Civil War and the emancipation of enslaved individuals, students gain insight into the importance of leadership during turbulent times. Furthermore, the biography encourages discussions about democracy, civil rights, and how individual actions can impact society. This foundational knowledge not only cultivates historical understanding but also inspires students to reflect on their own roles as active and informed citizens in their communities.
Middle School
Math, Civics, and Geography: A home learning home run that teaches kids to think big things while mastering the hardest to learn addition and multiplication facts, U.S. state geography, and the mechanics of the Electoral College. Playing the board game "Election Night" provides middle school students with an interactive platform to deepen their understanding of the electoral process and the dynamics of political campaigns. Through strategic gameplay, participants learn about the roles of candidates, campaign staff, and the media, all while engaging with concepts such as voter demographics and the significance of swing states. The game encourages critical thinking and collaboration as students analyze data, formulate strategies, and understand the impact of their decisions on election outcomes. Additionally, "Election Night" fosters discussions about the importance of civic participation and teamwork, reinforcing the idea that informed and engaged citizens play a crucial role in shaping their communities and the democratic process.
Liberty Square Riverboat
The Liberty Belle Riverboat is a beautiful and often overlooked attraction in Liberty Square, offering guests a slow, scenic journey along the Rivers of America. Designed to look like a classic 19th-century steam-powered paddle wheeler, the Liberty Belle carries visitors past lush landscapes, quiet settlements, and glimpses of Tom Sawyer Island. The riverboat has been part of the Magic Kingdom since the park’s opening in 1971, originally operating under the name "Richard F. Irvine" before being refurbished and renamed the Liberty Belle in 1996. A fun fact is that the riverboat is powered by a real steam engine, and although it moves along a hidden track beneath the water, the massive paddlewheel genuinely propels the boat. The Liberty Belle not only adds to the authenticity of Liberty Square but also honors the era of American exploration, transportation, and adventure.
To commemorate this special piece of Magic Kingdom history, I created the Farewell to Tom Sawyer Island and Liberty Belle printable packet—a 13-page cross-curricular resource designed to offer a rich, imaginative learning experience.
Middle School
History: A twelve-year-old Iroquois boy searches for peace in this historical novel based on the creation of the Iroquois Confederacy. Read Peacemaker and complete the free printable. Reading "Peacemaker" by Joseph Bruchac teaches middle school students about the importance of conflict resolution, understanding cultural diversity, and the value of peace. The story, which delves into the historical context of the Iroquois Confederacy and the character of the Peacemaker, provides insights into how communication and cooperation can lead to harmony among different groups. Through engaging with this narrative, students learn that finding common ground amid differences is vital in promoting unity and respect. Furthermore, the themes of empathy and reconciliation resonate with young readers, encouraging them to reflect on their own interpersonal relationships and the significance of resolving conflicts amicably in their daily lives.
The Haunted Mansion
The Haunted Mansion is one of the Magic Kingdom’s most iconic and beloved attractions, blending spooky fun with rich storytelling and clever design. Open since the park’s opening day in 1971, the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square has a more Gothic, stately appearance than its New Orleans-inspired counterpart in Disneyland. Guests board "Doom Buggies" and glide through a haunted estate filled with ghostly ballrooms, eerie libraries, and singing spirits. A fun fact is that the ride features 999 "happy haunts," but as the Ghost Host famously says, there is always room for one more. Another fascinating detail is that the Haunted Mansion uses groundbreaking special effects, such as the Pepper’s Ghost illusion in the ballroom scene, where transparent spirits appear to dance right before guests’ eyes. Every corner of the mansion is packed with hidden jokes, clever tributes, and masterful design choices that make it a favorite for fans of all ages.
The Ultimate Magic Kingdom Workbook brings even more excitement and learning to the Haunted Mansion by incorporating math challenges, riddles, and reflective activities tied to the attraction.
Pre-K and Kindergarten
Math: It’s a mystery! Where are the missing number bonds? Use your best math and detective skills to find them in this free printable. Teaching number bonds to pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students is crucial for laying a solid foundation in mathematics. Number bonds, which are pairs of numbers that combine to create a specific sum, help young learners develop a deep understanding of addition and subtraction. By introducing concepts like part-part-whole relationships, children can visualize how numbers connect, making it easier for them to tackle more complex mathematical ideas later on. Moreover, mastering number bonds supports number fluency, allowing students to perform calculations with confidence and efficiency. This foundational skill not only enhances their mathematical reasoning but also fosters critical thinking as they learn to manipulate numbers in various contexts. Ultimately, as children explore number bonds, they gain valuable problem-solving skills that will serve them throughout their educational journey.
Lower and Upper Elementary
Problem Solving and Mysteries: The game Junior Detective is an excellent tool for teaching problem-solving skills to elementary-aged kids, making it a valuable resource for homeschool parents. Players must collect clues, analyze evidence, and make logical deductions to solve mysteries, which encourages critical thinking and logical reasoning. The process sharpens observation skills as children learn to notice and remember small but significant details while also developing decision-making abilities as they evaluate options and choose the best course of action. If played collaboratively, the game fosters teamwork and communication, teaching kids the importance of cooperative problem-solving. Additionally, Junior Detective helps build patience and perseverance, as solving mysteries requires gathering clues and persisting through challenges. These skills have real-world applications, as deductive reasoning and analytical thinking are useful in subjects like math, science, and reading comprehension. Perhaps most importantly, the game makes learning fun, transforming valuable skill-building into an engaging and enjoyable experience. For homeschool parents, Junior Detective provides a hands-on, interactive way to enhance essential cognitive abilities while adding variety and excitement to the learning routine.
Middle School
Problem Solving: Playing the Disney Haunted Mansion Call of the Spirits board game offers players a unique opportunity to develop and refine a variety of skills. One key skill is critical thinking, as participants must analyze hints and clues to uncover the mystery of the game. This analytical approach encourages logical reasoning and helps players to evaluate different possibilities. Another important skill is teamwork, as players often work together to share insights and strategize their next moves, fostering collaboration and communication. Additionally, memory plays a crucial role in tracking spirits and remembering past events during gameplay, enhancing recall and retention abilities. Finally, creativity is ignited through the vibrant theme and storytelling elements of the game, allowing players to immerse themselves in the narrative while also thinking imaginatively about their next steps. Overall, the game provides an engaging platform for honing cognitive, social, and creative skills in an entertaining context.
