Dig into history

What can we use instead of hard-to-find tools like a trowel, strainer, or ziplock bags?

If you don't have a trowel, strainer, or ziplock bags, substitute a sturdy kitchen spoon for the trowel, a colander or kitchen sieve for the strainer, and small plastic containers or yogurt cups with lids for the ziplock bags while still stretching string between sticks to make the grid.

What should we do if we keep missing tiny artifacts or the grid edges collapse while digging?

If you miss tiny artifacts or the grid edges collapse, have an adult stabilize the sticks, always remove soil in thin layers as the instructions say, pass each layer through the strainer over the tarp to catch tiny bits, and keep the string grid taut so squares stay neat.

How can we adapt this excavation for different ages of kids?

For younger kids use larger squares, a plastic spoon and an adult to pre-bury objects and help with brushing while they draw finds in the notebook, and for older kids use the ruler or measuring tape for smaller squares, record exact depths on index cards, and write one-sentence artifact hypotheses before sharing on DIY.org.

How can we extend or personalize the dig to make it more exciting or educational?

Extend the activity by turning your finds and notes into a mini 'museum'—photograph each artifact, place it in a labeled bag or container with its index card and map page in a decorated shoebox, add a magnifying glass for close inspection, and post the exhibit photos and your one-sentence artifact stories on DIY.org.