Look into Lunar New Year

You may have heard of Chinese New Year, but the underlying concept crosses several cultures. Hop into 2023 – the year of the rabbit – with these enlightening activities about Lunar New Year

CONNECT:

• Watch how people celebrate Lunar New Year at https://youtu.be/Mm9LJC_5g2o
• Discover the legend of the Lunar New Year and the Chinese zodiac at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVPHdFX9iHY&ab_channel=PandaExpressTV
• Find out some things things are unlucky do to during Lunar New Year at https://www.chinahighlights.com/travelguide/festivals/chinese-new-year-taboos.htm

CREATE:

• Try eating lucky food for Lunar New Year; get the details at https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/lucky-foods-for-your-chinese-new-year-feast/
• Find out your Chinese zodiac sign at https://www.buildingbeautifulsouls.com/zodiac-signs/chinese-zodiac-for-kids/
• Celebrate Chinese lantern festival with the activities found at https://www.misspandachinese.com/happy-lantern-festival-closing-out-chinese-new-year-celebrations-with-a-lantern/

CARE:

• Lunar New Year is a time to wish people good fortune. Read about how Chinese people give money in red envelopes for good luck at https://artsandculture.google.com/story/8-things-you-should-know-about-the-lucky-red-envelope/PwKiICEFJXMOJg
• Fireworks are often part of Lunar New Year – and New Year's eve celebrations. Keep safe by following these tips: https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/fireworks.html
• New year is a good time to make a fresh start for yourself and how you connect with other people Here are some idea for kid-friendly new year resolutions: https://aroundthekampfire.com/2021/12/50-new-years-resolution-ideas-for-elementary-kids.html

CAREERS:

Looking to the future for a career? How about planning events? Starting planning your eventful job with these ideas.

• https://online.jwu.edu/blog/8-careers-people-who-love-plan-events
• https://www.socialtables.com/blog/event-planning/event-planning-careers/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/meeting-convention-and-event-planners.htm

Cheers for Chocolate!

 

Many a Christmas stocking will contain chocolate. Indeed, chocolate is associated with several holidays and events in life. The following activities will give you a bigger taste of this delicious confection.

 

CONNECT:

• Answer your questions about chocolate at https://planbee.com/blogs/news/chocolate-facts-for-ks2-children-and-teachers
• See a history of chocolate at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibjUpk9Iagk
• Take a virtual chocolate factory field trip at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iC-EnTZrddk

 

CREATE:

• Did you know about National Chocolate Day? You can celebrate it – and chocolate itself – with these fun activities and crafts: https://www.123homeschool4me.com/chocolate-crafts-and-activities-for_44/
• Fill your senses with these chocolate sensory play ideas at https://sugarspiceandglitter.com/10-chocolate-sensory-play-ideas/
• Experiment with chocolate at https://blog.pitsco.com/blog/chocolate-covered-learning

 

CARE:

• Chocolate stains are inevitable. Find out how to remove them at https://kidspot.co.nz/family-time/how-to-remove-chocolate-stains/
• Sadly, some people are chocolate-sensitive or are allergic to chocolate. Discover the symptoms and triggers to chocolate – and how to avoid reactions to chocolate at https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317775#Reactions-to-other-ingredients
• Chocolate can lose its taste and appearance, so learn how to preserve chocolate at https://www.fauchon.com/en/mag/advice/how-to-preserve-chocolate/

 

CAREERS:

Does a chocolate-related career sound yummy? There are several possibilities for you then: just like a variety box of chocolates. So take your pick below for a tasty job.

• https://fortune.com/2013/02/14/8-chocolate-covered-careers/
• https://www.institutculinaire.fr/en/news/chocolatier-job-description
• See how chemistry can lead to a chocolate career at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9oBgnZBb-w

Dear Reindeer

 

Dear Reindeer

‘Tis the season to think about reindeer. What is so special about them? Find out the answers and more with the following activities.

 

CONNECT:

• When is a reindeer NOT a reindeer? When it is wild and live in North American – they are then called caribou. Watch more facts about reindeer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UXsqn8cskZ8
• Read 12 incredible reindeer facts for Christmas at https://a-z-animals.com/blog/12-incredible-reindeer-facts-for-christmas/?from=exit_intent
• What’s the story behind reindeer and Santa? Get the answer at https://www.cnn.com/2012/12/22/opinion/galloway-reindeer
• Compare deer and reindeer at https://pediaa.com/difference-between-deer-and-reindeer/#:~:text=The%20main%20difference%20between%20deer,second%20biggest%20species%20of%20deer

 

CREATE:

• ‘Tis the season for fun reindeer crafts for kids: at https://www.kitchencounterchronicle.com/20-ridiculously-fun-reindeer-crafts-for-kids/
• Play some reindeer-inspired games at https://www.joyintheworks.com/10-reindeer-games-christmas-parties-family-fun/
• Learn how to make reindeer rockets and other holiday science at https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/reindeer-rockets
• Make magical reindeer food at https://www.inspiringsavings.com/reindeer-food/
• Track Santa and his reindeer journey at https://www.noradsanta.org/en/

 

CARE:

• Do you have a reindeer – or wish you had one? Here is how Santa takes care of reindeer: https://www.petmd.com/blogs/thedailyvet/aobrien/2013/dec/facts-about-reindeer-and-life-with-santa-31173
• Discover threats to reindeer/caribou at https://www.arcticwwf.org/wildlife/reindeer-and-caribou/
• You can adopt a reindeer at https://alaskawildlife.org/project/reindeer/

 

CAREERS:

Do reindeer-related jobs sound cool to you? You could raise them, heal them, create art about them, or even cook them (tearfully??). You don’t have to be Santa, and you are not limited to Christmas. Just check out these jobs.

• https://www.theguardian.com/money/2010/dec/18/working-life-reindeer-herder
• https://www.unh.edu/unhtoday/2019/05/reindeer-career
• https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/yourvet/even-santas-reindeer-need-veterinarian

AND here are some weird and wonderful Christmas jobs (including reindeer walker): https://coburgbanks.co.uk/blog/friday-funnies/10-weird-christmas-jobs/

 

 

 

 

Meow to ROAR!

 

There are more than 500 million domestic cats in the world. AND they have play important roles throughout history, and have even been considered sacred at one point. AND let's not forget wild cats. Get your claws into the following activities to learn about this PURRfect animal.

CONNECT:

• Check out a range of facts about cats at https://kids.kiddle.co/Cat
• Read how cats communicate via Cat Language 101: https://www.petmd.com/news/view/cat-language-101-how-do-cats-talk-each-other-37620
• How did cats become domesticated? Watch 10,000 of cats at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5WolEFv6oyg&ab_channel=Tinyverse
• See every type of cat in the cat family at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cQmky_wQao&ab_channel=SciShowKids

CREATE:

• Cuddle up to these 28 cat crafts for kids: https://www.kidslovewhat.com/diy-crafts/cuddle-up-to-these-28-cat-crafts-for-kids/
• Conduct science with your cat at https://info.thinkfun.com/stem-education/science-with-your-cat
• Play nature cat games at https://pbskids.org/naturecat/games

CARE:

• Follow these tips for taking care of cats: https://animalwellnessmagazine.com/teaching-kids-care-cat/
• Even though there are half a billion domestic cats, some kinds of cats are near extinction. Find out how you can help them survive at https://friendoftheearth.org/conservation-project/save-the-big-cats/
• Hopefully, you would not want to hurt a cat, but sometimes people do hurt them without realizing it. Watch 21 bad habits in caring for cats – and how to take care of them better: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKhwgSXlOmE&ab_channel=Jaw-DroppingFacts

CAREERS:

Do you purr when thinking about a career about cats? There's always veterinary science, but you could also make things for cats (such as clothes, food and furniture), take care of them, and even sell them. Explore the possibilities.

• https://www.insider.com/jobs-cat-lovers-2018-11
• https://www.rover.com/blog/jobs-for-cat-lovers/
• https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/20-best-jobs-with-cats/

Farms: Outstanding in their Field

 

What would we do without farms? 800 million people work on farms, which makes sense since everyone has to eat. The following activities “farm out” lots of information for you.

 

CONNECT:

• First, read some fun farm facts at https://www.twinkl.com/teaching-wiki/farm
• You may have a mental picture of a farm, but there are more kinds of farms than you might imagine. See of their varieties at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TamwdrJLvk
• Take a video field trip to an animal farm at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg2ZX0PF-jI
• See how farming differs around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDoV4I0XQSs

CREATE:

• Get ready for fall (and spring) with 60 farm activities for kids: https://www.123homeschool4me.com/25-farm-activities-for-kids_53/
• Feed the animals, plant veggies and learn about life on the farm with these fresh farm crafts for kids! https://artsycraftsymom.com/farm-crafts-for-kids/
• Make hay for a farm-themed party with these farm games: https://www.scarymommy.com/parenting/farm-games-for-kids

 

CARE:

• How can we create the perfect sustainable farm? See possible strategies at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFqecEtdGZ0
• Is your family visiting a farm? Watch safety tips for children at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsFtVol0C7Q.  Parents: here are specific factors for children at different ages: https://nasdonline.org/1278/d001082/farm-safety-for-young-children.html
• How do you safely handle livestock? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGudMrUnZgk

 

CAREERS:

Does farming feature in your career dreams?

• Imagine being a farmer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtH7hNKyOD8
• Take a virtual field trip to explore career in agriculture at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJjBpELWXZ0

.

Why Are Diamonds So Special?

 

Diamonds have been highly valued for centuries. Why? Explore the history and use of diamonds with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how carbon (which is also used to make coal) changes to the super crystal diamond at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2tgnkoygbD0
• Learn how to cut diamonds at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3UX0l6f1aE
• Check out uses of diamonds at https://www.miningforschools.co.za/lets-explore/diamond/uses-of-diamonds

 

CREATE:

• Try these diamond-shaped crafts for preschoolers: https://classroom.synonym.com/diamondshaped-arts-crafts-preschoolers-8125731.html
• Make a paper diamond by following these instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdQ3aQR0G5U
• Can you turn coal into using peanut butter? Watch the process at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=737r0mRf0hY

 

CARE:

• Explore the Crater of Diamonds State Park at https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park
• Watch a kid’s learning about diamond mining’s hidden cost at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sentTvMHnkQ
• Find out how to buy an ethical diamond at https://time.com/4013735/how-to-buy-an-ethical-diamond/

 

CAREERS:

Diamonds may be a career’s best friend: in manufacturing, cutting, jewelry making, selling, and marriage planning. Explore sparkling diamond-related careers with these Internet resources.

• https://austindiamondbuyer.net/career-diamond-industry/
• https://www.diamondfacts.org/pdfs/media/media_resources/fact_sheets/Diamond_Industry_Fact_Sheet.pdf
• https://miningdigital.com/top10/top-10-trends-in-the-diamond-industry

 

 

 

.

Is the Grass Always Greener?

 

Grass is found around the world. But don’t let grass grow under your feet; instead, use these activities about this important plan.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about grass at https://www.factsjustforkids.com/plant-facts/grass-facts-for-kids/
• All grasses are not created the same; discover different types of grasses at https://www.konnecthq.com/different-types-of-grass/
• Why is grass green? It’s more than a pretty color. Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NesBxScxIVA
• How old are lawns? See the history of lawns at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=095t1w6Iuno
• See 44 uses for grass at https://www.trendhunter.com/slideshow/uses-for-grass

 

CREATE:

• Grow your own lawn-type grass in a cup by following the directions at https://www.pre-kpages.com/planting-and-growing-grass-in-preschool/  
• And here are grass science projects for older kids: https://sciencing.com/grass-growth-science-project-7334658.html
• Have grass, will play -- with these fun games: https://activeforlife.com/6-fun-games-you-and-your-kids-will-play-on-grass-this-summer/
• Try some of these grass-based activity starters: https://www.educatall.com/page/874/Grass.html

 

CARE:

• As much as people love lawns, these greeneries can harm animals and the environment. Read how at https://www.peta.org/living/humane-home/plea-lawn-safety/
• There may be other pet hazards in your yard. Learn how to fix them at https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/pet-hazards-in-yard/
• Can you eat grass survive? Get the answer at https://survivalfreedom.com/can-you-eat-grass-to-survive/

 

CAREERS:

Farmer, gardener, landscaper, crafter, cook, scientist, naturalist: all have jobs that involve grass. So DO let grass grow under your feet – and be paid for it. Read how others make their living with grass.

• Facts about cows, milk and grass: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VH62Sxy5IvI
• https://www.seedyourfuture.org/careers
• https://www.learnhowtobecome.org/career-resource-center/careers-with-plants/
• https://mrplantgeek.com/2021/01/05/20-careers-to-consider-if-you-are-fascinated-by-plants/

 

Long Live the Queen -- and King

 

Great Britain's Queen Elizabeth II had a long reign – and impacted people around the world. With her passing, let's explore her life and legacy with these activities.

CONNECT:

• Watch this kid-friendly video about Queen Elizabeth's life at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=liW_ejcONU0 (it was made in 2021, a year before she died).
• Learn 15 fun facts about Queen Elizabeth at https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/monarchy/facts-about-the-queen-elizabeth-ii/
• What is a monarchy? Read and watch the answer at http://www.youngcommonwealth.org/our-story/
• What is the British Commonwealth? Read their story at http://www.youngcommonwealth.org/our-story/

CREATE:

• Earlier this year, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated her platinum jubilee (70 years as queen). You can do several activities that British children ejoyed: at https://www.heart.co.uk/news/royals/queen/platinum-jubilee/kids-craft-activity-ideas-templates-print-off/
• Queen Elizabeth II's son Charles became her successor: as king. Help celebrate this new ruler with these activities: https://www.muminthemadhouse.com/activities-for-celebrating-the-kings-coronation-with-kids/
• Play some British children's party games described at https://princesspartiesuk.com/uncategorized/traditional-childrens-party-games/

CARE:

• Death is a reality that most children have to deal with at some time. Here are some tips for families to help grieving children: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/death.html
• Here are ways that children can remember someone who died: https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/help/support/bereaved-family-friends/supporting-grieving-child/helping-child-remember-someone#:~:text=Share%20happy%20stories%20about%20the,by%20anyone%20at%20any%20time.
• See tip for coping when your pet dies: https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/coping-death-your-pet

CAREERS:

What is like to be a ruler – or to serve a ruler?

• https://www.monarchie.be/en/for-children/a-day-in-the-life-of-the-king
• https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a26963377/royal-family-household-job-description/

Wheels Make the World Go Round

 

Imagine a world without wheels! Lots of activities would come to a stop. Get going with these activities about wheels.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the wheel facts at https://www.konnecthq.com/wheel/
• Wheels have had a lot of uses over the years; read about them at https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/a-salute-to-the-wheel-31805121/
• Watch a short history of the wheel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XzG1aPw7YBc
• See how wheels – and axles -- keep us moving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIV9IUHqW3A
• See how wheels are made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VM74BHb_s4

 

CREATE:

• Try the wheely-fun experiments at https://www.teachpreschoolscience.com/wheels.html
• Wheel decide with these interactive spinning wheels: https://www.yourkidsot.com/wheel-decide.html
• Make your own water wheel and find out how it works, following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkqLE9ysWek

 

 

CARE:

• Watch how to check your bake for safety, including its wheels, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hq6vjYuFKf4
• Like going place by wheels – biking, skateboarding, using a scooter? Watch the videos for safety no matter how you get wheeled around at https://www.lifespan.org/centers-services/4-safety-program/safety-topics/wheeled-sports-safety
• Wheelchairs are useful for many people; watch their history at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JB6Ib_7TFNs

 

CAREERS:

Explore a moving career: in transportation, manufacturing, toys, mechanics, science, physical therapy. They all make the world go round.

• https://www.transportation.gov/careers
• https://www.thebalancecareers.com/manufacturing-job-titles-2061501
• https://www.otis.edu/toy-design/careers
• https://www.apta.org/your-career/careers-in-physical-therapy

 

 

Meteors Rock!

 August is known as the best month to see shooting stars: meteors. But what are meteors? Basically space rocks. So what makes them special? Find out with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• What is a meteor shower? Watch and learn  at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkglsg0K1IY
• Is there a difference between a meteor and a shooting star? Find the truth at https://littleastronomy.com/difference-between-meteor-and-shooting-star/
• What are meteorites and where do they come from? Read the facts at https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-what-are-meteorites-made-of-and-where-do-they-come-from-114408
• What’s the difference between an asteroid and a meteor? Get the answer at NASA: https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/asteroid-or-meteor/en/

 

CREATE:

• Get your hands on these meteoric experiments: https://meteorites.asu.edu/outreach/hands-on-activities
• Learn about asteroids through art at https://www.unawe.org/activity/asteroids_art/
• Get your game on with meteors at https://www.wartgames.com/themes/science/comets.html
• Discover how to watch a meteor shower at https://www.axios.com/2022/08/11/perseid-meteor-shower-peak-2022

 

CARE:

• Are you safe from meteors? Find out the odds at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71cg1nRcXHU
• Check out this meteor guide about the science and safety of earth-bound rocks: https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn23181-meteor-guide-science-and-safety-of-earth-bound-rocks/
• What are earthlings doing to product themselves from asteroids? Watch the defense efforts at https://www.esa.int/Space_Safety/About_asteroids_and_Planetary_Defence

 

CAREERS:

 

Do meteors put stars in your eyes? The sky is NOT the limit for meteor-related jobs, as you will see here.

• https://ares.jsc.nasa.gov/meteorite-falls/why-research-meteorites/
• https://caslabs.case.edu/ansmet/faqs/
• https://bestaccreditedcolleges.org/articles/astronomer-job-information-and-requirements-for-students-considering-a-career-in-astronomy.html

 

Let the Sunshine In

 The sun is necessary for life, but how much do you know about it? Shine some light on the sun by doing these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch this video introduction about the sun at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkW54j82e9U
• Read about fiery sun myths at https://content.time.com/time/specials/packages/completelist/0,29569,2046823,00.html
• Explore lots of aspects of the sun gathered by NASA at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/menu/sun/
• Get energized about solar energy at https://blog.namastesolar.com/solar-energy-for-kids

 

CREATE:

• Try some of these sunny kid activities at https://lifestyle.howstuffworks.com/crafts/seasonal/sun-activities.htm
• Get crafty about the sun at https://www.acraftylife.com/sun-kids-crafts-bright-craft-projects/
• Think like a scientist with these sunny experiments: https://igamemom.com/science-experiments-to-learn-about-sun/
• Print with the sun following the directions at https://www.pbs.org/parents/crafts-and-experiments/make-sun-prints

 CARE:

• Let the minions show about to be sun safe at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxAsoBXmCJk
• Watch how to become a sun safe superstar like George at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7ghJsZug60
• What is a solar eclipse, and how can you watch it safely? Find out at https://www.parentcircle.com/when-where-how-to-see-solar-eclipse-for-kids/article
• What are solar flares and why are they dangerous? See the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Mrf9IIz0Co

 

CAREERS:

Shine a light on sun-related jobs: from solar panel manufacturing to astronomer.

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/career-in-solar
• https://earth911.com/eco-tech/careers-in-solar-energy/
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/jobs-for-astronomy-majors

 

 

Get Energized!

 

What makes the world go around?  Energy! Where does that energy come from? How does it work – get other things to work? Use your energy to discover the answers in with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• What kinds of energy can you name? Compare them with this video about several kinds of energy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HdxQhBRDUI
• See the difference between renewable and non-renewable energy at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w16-Uems2Qo
• How old is energy? It’s as old as the sun. It also comes from the fossils of dinosaurs. Watch the history at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JasIvS7oYw4

 

CREATE:

• goog_174713956Use your energy to play these energetic games: https://www.eia.gov/kids/games-and-activities/
• Energize your home with kid-friendly energy activities: https://alaskarenewableenergy.org/energy-activities-to-do-at-home/
• See the light with these light activities for preschoolers: https://carrotsareorange.com/light-energy/

 

CARE:

• Conserving energy is one way to help the environment: here are 10 ways for kids to conserve energy at home and school: https://tristate.coop/kids-conserve-energy-for-home-school
• Watch how to monitor electric use at home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjpxIIgo7-8
• Sumer time can be a high energy use time, especially with are conditioning.  Try at least one of these 8 kid-friendly ways to conserve energy in the summer: https://blog.directenergy.com/8-ways-to-help-kids-conserve-energy-summer/

 

CAREERS:

Does an energy-related career energize you? Let these websites light up your life.

• https://careerwise.minnstate.edu/guide/energy/energy-career-clusters.html
• https://getintoenergy.org/
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/types-of-energy-careers

 

Plastic Lives!

 

Plastic is all around us. It is hard to imagine not using plastic in our daily lives: eating with, using items made of plastic, even wearing it. But what really is plastic? And how does it affect us? Explore the answers with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about plastic at https://kids.kiddle.co/Plastic
• Watch how plastic is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PgjA3HISmw
• What is plastic used for? Can you think of 100 uses? Jot down your ideas and compare them with https://allusesof.com/chemical/100-uses-of-plastic/

 

CREATE:

• What can you do with empty plastic bottles? Here are 25 kid-friendly craft ideas using them: https://www.playideas.com/plastic-bottle-crafts-for-kids/
• Try some of these tips for avoiding single-plastic: https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/single-use-plastic/
• Too much plastic is not good. Use National Geographic’s toolkit for tips on hosting a plastic-free party and give plastic-free gifts: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/nature/kids-vs-plastic

 

CARE:

• See how plastic harms the environment at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dC5zUU1TSYg
• But what about saving trees? What is better to use: paper or plastic? Get the pros and cons at https://climatekids.nasa.gov/paper-or-plastic/ to decide.
• Britain has a Kids Against Plastic organization. See what they do – and consider how you could take action: at https://www.kidsagainstplastic.co.uk/

 

CONNECT:

You saw how plastic is used in so many ways. That means there are lots of jobs waiting for people who want to work with plastic. Discover some of those options here.

• https://www.plasticsindustry.org/careers
• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Career/Plastic/What-Is-How-to-Become
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eN8w22B-GZU

Starry-eyed about Constellations

 

Ever connect the dots? On a clear night you can see groups of stars in the sky.  People have connected the star “dots” to form constellations that represent images. Often these constellations are used to tell stories and share myths. Try these activities and see starry constellations in your eyes.

 

CONNECT:

• Learn about the types of constellations, their names, and how to find them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sZ15SUeS9w
• Want to know more about the myths and science of constellations? Watch this 2-part crash course: https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/what-is-a-constellation-crash-course-kids
• Watch how different cultures view constellations at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HejyXGQN-wk

 

CREATE:

• Explore NASA’s activities about constellations at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/search/constellations/
• Try some kid-friendly, hands-on constellation activities at https://www.howweelearn.com/constellation-activities-for-kids/
• Create a constellation telescope by following the directions at https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/53541/constellation-activity-craft/
• AND connect the stars anyway to want to make your own constellations!

 

CARE:

• Get the facts about night vision and eye health at https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/night-vision
• Connect the family closer by star – and constellation – gazing at https://www.pbs.org/seeinginthedark/for-families/
• Be inspired by https://www.lpi.usra.edu/education/space_days/activities/constellations/ to create a community space day for families.

 

CAREERS:

Do you get starry-eyed thinking about constellations? Do you see the stars in your future? If so, gaze at this constellation of astronomy careers.

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/astronomy-jobs
• https://aas.org/careers/career-in-astronomy
• https://www.iau.org/public/themes/careers/

Milk it!

 

Mother’s milk. The milk of human kindness. Got milk? Milk is universal, and we never outgrow our need for it. Milk these activities for their goodness: food for thought!

 

CONNECT:

• See how milk travels from the farm to your fridge at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XSoTEcD_vQ
• All mammals produce milk; watch some extreme animal milk at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbBgcs9NYLE
• Explore the history of cheese (and its relationship to milk) at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzzEK4wZ6uI

 

CREATE:

• World Milk Day is September 30, but you can celebrate milk every day by doing these fun STEM activities: https://www.nfuonline.com/updates-and-information/ten-top-stem-activities-to-celebrate-world-school-milk-day/
• Here is one time you can play with your food: https://milklife.com/articles/10-easy-diy-experiments-for-kids
• Make oat milk (for older kids and adults to drink) by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zXQufqSZC0

 

CARE:

• Should kids drink plant-based milk? Get the facts at https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/kids-health/are-milk-alternatives-actually-unhealthy-for-kids/
• Here are tips for keeping milk fresh: https://dairyfarmersofcanada.ca/en/canadian-goodness/cooking-with-dairy/freeze-store-milk#:~:text=Store%20milk%20on%20refrigerator%20shelves,pitcher%20to%20the%20original%20container.
• Read what happens when you drink spoiled milk—and what to do if you DO drink it: https://missouripoisoncenter.org/is-this-a-poison/spoiled-milk/#:~:text=A%20small%20sip%20of%20spoiled,resolve%20within%2012%2D24%20hours.

 

CAREERS:

Cow-abunga! You can milk your job. Here are some moo-ving ways to do that.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Zi5znuMpE8
• https://www.ans.iastate.edu/undergraduate/careers/dairy-careers
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/dairy-industry-careers

Roger That, Rocket!

 

The US anthem includes the phrase “the rockets’ red glare.” We continue to be awed by rockets. Have a blast exploring the world of rockets with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out these rocket facts at https://www.factsjustforkids.com/technology-facts/rocket-facts-for-kids/
• Watch how rockets work at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yBwWLunlOM
• Rockets are not new; they have been around for more than 2000 years! Discover their history at https://www.space.com/29295-rocket-history.html

 

CREATE:

• Even little ones can do cool rocket activites at https://toddlerapproved.com/2015/05/10-cool-rocket-activities-for-kids.html
• Explore rockets at NASA space place: https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/search/Rockets/
• Create your own rocket and other high fliers at https://www.parentmap.com/article/launching-imaginations-diy-action-toy-contraptions

 

CARE:

• Safety goes to a new level in space; find out how to stay healthy in space at https://www.lpi.usra.edu/education/space_days/activities/healthInSpace/aboutHealthInSpace.pdf
• rockets are fun to watch but they can be dangerous if you get too clase, so follow this model rocket safety code at https://www.nar.org/safety-information/model-rocket-safety-code/
• Watch this video about rocket safety: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ1V1si2mC0

 

CAREERS:

Blast into space with these rocket-based jobs. The sky's the limit!

• https://www.myrocketcareer.com/
• https://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/rocketry/careercorner/index.html

 

 

Graduation Time

 

It is time for schools in the US to celebrate graduation. It is an important rite of passage and symbol of achievement. Explore these websites to gradually achieve more knowledge about graduation.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the history of graduation traditions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pq6wodqji8U
• Watch these graduation traditions and rituals from around the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-Je5TxmNr0  
• Watch how Finnish students celebrate graduation at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoxSiIb5690
• Decode the meaning of graduation caps and gowns at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbTcUnh2tR4

 

CREATE:

• Try up to 24 ways to celebrate preschool graduation at https://www.pre-kpages.com/end-school-year-activities/
• Listen to this playlist of graduation songs at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i66p0_wZ9F0&list=PLwMMslZU--j7UiQJYDwRcQ1QzrSM-FkrY
• Taste these kid-friendly graduation party snack ideas: https://www.alphabetu.com/blog/2014/03/kindergarten-and-preschool-graduation-party-snack-ideas/

 

CARE:

• Know someone who is graduating? Get inspired with the following ideas for creating a memorable graduation gift: http://twigglemagazine.com/June-activities/graduation-teacher-gift-ideas.html
• Plan a fun graduation party with these ideas from preschool to high school: https://www.parenting.com/activities/family-time/15-graduation-party-ideas-preschool-to-high-school/
• Sometimes youth may party too much graduation time; use these tips to stay safe: https://cadyinc.org/resources/get-the-facts/keeping-your-child-safe-around-prom-and-graduation-time/

 

CAREERS:

Imagine graduating again and again. There are the obvious careers in education, but there are supporting careers as well: event planning, catering, manufacturing, yearbook publishing, photographing – and career advising. It can take a village to graduate.  

• https://www.science.org/content/article/research-your-career-options-well-graduation
• https://www.zippia.com/yearbook-editor-jobs/
• http://becomeaneventplanner.org/event-planning-careers.html
• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/caterer/

 

Animal Mothers

 Every animal has a mother. How are they alike – and different? Try these activities to find out. And hug your mom…

 CONNECT:

• Watch 10 caring and devoted animal moms in the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SS4JCfzJwz8
• Follow this read-aloud book about how animal babies travel with their mothers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4TIYk5QMbo
• Read about hard-working animal moms at https://www.doi.gov/blog/celebrating-hard-working-animal-moms

 

CREATE:

• Learn about the science of animal babies and their mothers at https://kidsdiscover.com/teacherresources/baby-animals-science-lesson/
• With your mom, act out your inner animal child with these activities:  https://mothernatured.com/children/
• Match animals with their baby names with this game at https://blog.allaboutlearningpress.com/baby-animal-names/ or create this animal baby name game at https://www.kitchencounterchronicle.com/are-you-my-mother-animal-memory-game/

CARE:

• Learn about animal mothers care for their young at https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/ilwnet17-sci-life-young/how-animals-care-for-their-young/
• Learn from animal mothers how to care for children at https://www.inverse.com/science/7-lessons-moms-can-learn-from-animals
• Create animal-based Mother’s Days cards with the templates at https://www.petakids.com/activities/mothers-day-cards/

 

CAREERS:

You can make a career from learning about animal mothers: veterinarian, zoo staff, biologist, wildlife specialist. Your mom would be proud. Read about some possibilities here.

• https://mothernatured.com/parenting/wildlife-and-animal-career-information-for-children-and-teenagers/
• https://brevardzoo.org/the-truth-about-the-best-job-in-the-world/
• https://www.uvisor.com/55-great-careers-working-animals/

 

 

Please Pass the Pasta

 

Almost every culture has cuisine that includes noodles or pasta. They really are staples in life. Get your “noodle” around this international dish.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how pasta is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u03XLe4GBLQ
• Pasta is over 5000 years old! Watch is history is a few minutes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTOCBaDBVGI
• Here’s what noodles and pasta look like in 13 places around the world: https://www.insider.com/noodles-look-like-around-the-world-2018-8
• Examine this online pasta-noodle gallery: https://foodimentary.com/2013/03/11/national-eat-your-noodles-day/

 

CREATE:

• Even toddlers can have fun with pasta, not just playing with their food, at https://www.playideas.com/pasta-play-ideas/
• Learn how to dye pasta and then make the pieces into masterpieces: at https://artfulparent.com/pasta-art-activities-for-kids/
• Create a trivia facts game using the information found at https://www.factsjustforkids.com/food-facts/pasta-facts-for-kids/
• You can make your own pasta from scratch: watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mLFYqDxShE

 

CARE:

• Make pasty super healthy with these nutrient-packed, kid-friendly pasta recipes: https://www.superhealthykids.com/10-nutrient-packed-pasta-recipes/
• It’s good for kids to learn how to prepare food, and they should usually have an adult around. AND it’s just as important to be safe in the kitchen; watch some tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVtwhOHLP44
• You have heard that chicken noodle soup is good when you’re ill; learn about its medical magic at https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/news/20181226/the-secret-behind-chicken-soups-medical-magic

 

CAREERS:

When you think of pasta production, you can realize the many careers that are related to pasta: farming, manufacturing, selling, cooking – and more indirectly chemist, nutritionist, restauranteer and interior decorator, food critic, even historian.  There’s even a National Pasta Association: https://ilovepasta.org/