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Amphibian Adaptations

Activity

Exploring Textures for Breathing and Survival

Compare different materials (smooth plastic, moist sponges, soft fabrics) to represent different types of amphibian skin. Think about how amphibians rely on their skin for breathing and absorbing water, and explore how its texture and moisture help them survive in their environments. Create your own version of “amphibian skin” by using soft, smooth, or sponge-like materials.
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Herp 3 (3)
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Science Seed

Amphibian skin has unique properties that help them thrive in their environments. Unlike reptiles that have dry scaly skin, amphibians have soft, moist, and permeable skin that allows them to absorb water and oxygen directly from their surroundings. For example, frogs and toads rely on their moist skin for breathing and hydration, especially in damp habitats. Frogs breathe through their skin and their lungs! Salamanders have smooth, slick skin that helps them stay agile and reduces friction in water or on land. The moist texture of amphibian skin also plays a critical role in protecting them from dehydration and supporting their survival in diverse ecosystems. These special adaptations make amphibian skin essential for temperature regulation, gas exchange, and maintaining moisture balance.
botany jar illustration

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earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Sanchez Elementary

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Sánchez Elementary School is close to downtown on Austin’s east side. Built in 1976, the campus boasts murals by Raul Valdez depicting the school’s Hispanic history and heritage. Sánchez was one of the district’s first to introduce two-way dual language education- fitting because the school’s namesake, George Sánchez, was a pioneer in bilingual education. This project was made possible by HEB.

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