What A Wonderful World

Whole Wide World Wallpaper by Mr Perswall

Ah, summer holidays, one of the best moments of the year!  We’re fresh back from a week in the French Alps and feeling on top of the world (no pun intended). Traveling is always a great learning experience for children, and an excellent opportunity for a family to spend some quality time together. There’s a wonderful world out there just waiting to be explored, and I’m sure you’ll agree that the knowledge we gain from visiting and experiencing different countries, cultures, and people is priceless.

Of course, we can’t travel and be on vacation all the time, but that doesn’t mean we can’t teach our children how to open their eyes and want to learn more about the world at home. Maps come in all shapes, sizes and colors these days. They’re obviously educational, but they can also be decorative and a great deal of fun. Let the virtual globe-trotting begin!

World Map Wall Decal with Animals by Map Decal on Etsy

World Map Wall Decal with Animals
Available for $168 from Map Decal on Etsy.

Personally, I’m not a big fan of decals but I know my own kids would have loved something like this when they were younger. Modern, bright, and colorful, this decal is made from high-quality removable, non-toxic matte vinyl that looks painted once applied to the wall. I love the eye-catching green / chocolate combo (they have a large selection to choose from). What a fun way to learn about animals and their origins every day!

Giant Fabric Wall Map by Cox & Cox

Giant Fabric Wall Map
Available for $446 from Cox & Cox.

If you’re not overly keen on decals or decorating with wallpaper and have the space for something large, this fabric wall map is an excellent alternative. The map comes with 183 velcro-backed picture and word motifs covering oceans, countries, capital cities, famous buildings, and wild animals, to name but a few. The set even includes a few finger puppets. It’s quite an investment, but I think the whole family would enjoy learning and playing with this!

Color-In World Map for Kids

Color-In World Map
Available for $24 from Doodlebugz.

Ninety countries and their flags, famous places and landmarks, endangered species, the Seven Wonders of the New World, time zones… there’s definitely plenty to keep your children busy on this fun color-in map poster. Educational and entertaining, it would make a great gift and kids will love displaying it in their room once completed.

Fine Little World Poster from Fine Little Day

Fine Little World Poster
Available for $54 from Fine Little Day.

The details in this happy, colorful children’s poster are amazing! Where do elephants live? Can you spot a Russian church? There’s so much to see and learn on this world map. Illustrated by Steffie Broccoli in collaboration with Fine Little Day, the map is perfect for a nursery, play space, or classroom—love!

Large Chalkboard Wall Map via Etsy

Large Chalkboard Wall Map
Available for $85 from Dirtsa Studio on Etsy.

It’s not new but I bet it continues to inspire big and little globetrotters the world over. This chalkboard map is made from pliable fabric and has a wonderful old school feel. I love the hand drawn aspect and the invitation to dream, plan then start afresh. Children’s imagination knows no bounds!

Pictured at top of post: Whole Wide World Wallpaper by Mr Perswall.