Sweet Season of Sugar

 

The holidays evoke the taste of sugar (sugarplum fairies and more).  Discover its seasonal role – and its larger impact in these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out some fun facts about sugar at https://easyscienceforkids.com/sugar/
• Where did sugar come from? Watch the answer throughout history at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p4g6sReVCYQ&ab_channel=BBCStudios
• Find out about different sources of sugar at https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/sugar/353821

 

CREATE:

• Make—and play--with sugar sand! Just follow the directions at https://createplaytravel.com/kids/diy-sugar-sand/
• Try painting snowflakes with sugar. See how at https://kidscraftroom.com/winter-sugar-painting-kids/
• Create colored sugar cubes and build with them by following the directions at https://handsonaswegrow.com/sugar-cube-activity-fun-for-kids/

 

CARE:

• Sugar is hiding in plain sight; find out where they hide at https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/sugar-hiding-in-plain-sight-video
• Rethink your drink and the amount of sugar is in it at https://www.actionforhealthykids.org/activity/rethink-your-drink/
• What does sugar do for your body? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2Sn81ulH8I&ab_channel=WonderGroveKids

 

CAREERS:

Does a sugar-related career sound sweet to you? You could raise it, process it, sell it, create with it, and study it. Here are some possibilities.

• Check out the sugar industry at https://www.sugar.org/about/us-industry/
• Read about the scientific voice of the sugar industry at https://www.sugar.org/
• Discover how sugarcane is farmed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyNDJHkLyrE&ab_channel=CANEGROWERSWatch how sugar is processed at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SfKDdE6YEiw&ab_channel=HowIt%27sMade

 

Celebrate Camels

 

What comes to mind when you think about camels? The desert? Christmas manger scenes? 2024 is the United Nation has proclaimed 2024 as the year of the Camelidae. Learn why and lots more about camels and their relatives with these fun websites.

 

CONNECT:

• There are different types of camels: read fun facts about them at https://www.coolkidfacts.com/camel-facts-for-kids/
• Camels have been the main way to travel across the desert sands. See how camels adapt to their environment at https://ca.pbslearningmedia.org/resource/camels/san-diego-zoo-kids/
• Campers are members of the biological family Camelidae, which also includes llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and guanacos. Find out what connects and distinguishes these family members at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xF4UYaiSFms      For a more extensive history of Camelidae, including the 2024 celebration, watch the video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NAolb2DYDo8

 

CREATE:

• Many quotes mention camels. You might make posters or a t-shirt using some of these quotes: https://www.wisesayings.com/camel-quotes/
• There are many ways to create a camel. Which one do you want to try? Check out 17 possibilities at https://www.teachingexpertise.com/arts-and-crafts/camel-crafts-and-activities/
• Play a Happy Camel game at https://springroll-tc.pbskids.org/happy-camel/c01ef930ff95427b3d797687fc8ffb7e611ef75c/release/index.html

 

CARE:

• Camels can get aggressive, so what are good practices in connecting with camels? Get some tips at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8F9y7BCnzQ&t=214s
• Can you “read” camel? Watch how to at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJ2FNBjH_EM
• Did you know that the wild camel is the 8^th most endangered large mammal on the planet? Discover the details at https://www.wildcamels.com/

 

CAREERS:

Are you curious about camels and care for them? How about a camel career? You could be a scientist, a veterinarian, a camel farmer, a camel racer, a tour guide, are even a camel artist! See some of the possibilities here:

• https://www.camelchannel.com/
• https://thefootnotes.com.au/the-humps-of-a-career-in-camel-farming/
• https://www.vetpracticemag.com.au/meet-camel-veterinarian-margie-bale/
• https://www.cnn.com/2017/03/14/sport/camel-racing-robots-uae-thoroughbred-hussain-al-marzooqi/index.html#:~:text=Deep%20in%20the%20heart%20of,be%20upwards%20of%20%242%20million.

 

Gobble Up Turkeys

 

Turkeys are traditional food at Thanksgiving. And there’s more to them than that one meal. Gobble up the facts about turkeys with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out 70! facts about turkeys at https://www.lovetoknow.com/parenting/kids/turkey-facts-kids
• Why do Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving? See the video answer about it at https://www.britannica.com/video/turkey-dish-meal/-238846
• Get wild about wild turkeys at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SnIU1iJgmVE

 

CREATE:

• Here are two dozen turkey activities for kids: https://thekindergartenconnection.com/24-turkey-activities-kids/
• Get a taste for healthy turkey food art at https://raisingveggielovers.com/turkey-food-art-healthy-kids-food/
• Work up an appetite with these thanksgiving games at https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/holidays-celebrations/g32449758/thanksgiving-games/

 

CARE:

• Watch how farmers care for turkeys at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KpHvD4TBzOM
• Wild turkeys adapt to urban and suburban communities, which can cause problems. See the issues and the solutions at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/sites/default/files/Wild-Turkeys-WDM-Technical-Series.pdf
• Watch this annual “Turkeys for Teachers” drive to support 1000 local teachers with Thanksgiving good at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ORGcKXXhlM

 

CAREERS:

Is a TURKey LURKey in your future? Maybe as a farmer, a grocer, a cook, an event planner, an ornithologist (bird scientist)? You might thank a turkey for an interesting career. See some examples below.  

• Visit a turkey farm at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOxzPHg_B64
• Scientists talk about turkey conservation at https://www.youtube.com/shorts/DfjOQFVEeK4

 

Get Spirited!

 

Halloween is a time when some folks call on the spirits. Spirits can mean several things, but these spirited online activities focus on things like souls and ghosts. Don’t get spirited away!

 

CONNECT:

• Are ghosts real? Watch the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pw0K0Yfa29A&ab_channel=ColossalCranium
• Ghosts are usually defined as the spirit or soul of a dead animal that appears to be living. Read facts about them at https://kidpillar.com/ghost-facts-for-kids/
• Discover ghostly celebrations from around the world at https://hashtaglegend.com/5-famous-ghostly-celebrations-by-nations
• Who is the Holy Spirit (sometimes called the Holy Ghost)? Watch a Christian video about this spirit at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYjT1_wnsXk

 

CREATE:

• B is for Boo! And preschool spooky fun. Get the details at https://thechirpingmoms.com/ghost-activities/
• Try some of these 14 easy ideas for kids to inspire the spirit of Halloween: https://columbiamom.com/14-easy-ideas-for-kids-to-inspire-the-spirit-of-halloween/
• Here are some activities to introduce children to spirituality: https://www.ulc.org/ulc-blog/fun-ideas-to-introduce-children-to-spirituality

 

CARE:

• What is fear? And how can kids deal with it? They can watch a video to help them: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pxJoxqZyCs&ab_channel=SmileandLearn-English
• For parents: Read these tips for helping children deal with fear and worry: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/anxiety.html#:~:text=Comfort%20your%20infant%2C%20toddler%2C%20or,These%20can%20cause%20fears
• Keep up your spirit and safety at Halloween with these pediatrician tips: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/all-around/Pages/Halloween-Safety-Tips.aspx
• Spirit of Children brings fun and funding to patients and their families. Their online fall campaign is Spirit Halloween. Read what they do and how you can support Spirit Halloween at https://lovetotherescue.org/how-you-can-help/get-involved/become-a-corporate-partner/spirit-halloween

 

CAREERS:

Is there a ghost of a chance that spirits could lead to a career for you? Several religions include the concept of spirits so you might become a spiritual leader. Or maybe you like Halloween and similar celebrations. You could become an event planner, an interior decorator, an artist, a costumer, a chef, all to make such events successful. Check out some possibilities here.

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/spiritual-careers
• https://www.careeraddict.com/halloween-jobs

 

 

Truth or Consequences

We are taught not to lie or mislead others. Yet lying, misleading, misinformation does happen, and it can have serious consequences. Get the truth about honesty and lying, misinformation and disinformation, as you do these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Watch these kid-friendly videos about honesty and lying: https://www.socialworkerstoolbox.com/videos-for-kids-on-honesty-and-lying/ There are also worksheets that accompany the videos.
• What is fake news? Watch how to identify them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0Cd9-eJ-No&ab_channel=SmileandLearn-English
• For preteens and up: Now is election time, and voters need to know the truth about the candidates. See examples of misinformation that can falsely influence voters at https://misinfodashboard.newslit.org/?utm_source=election-2024&utm_campaign=election-resource-bundle-cvc-oct15-24b&utm_medium=email&emci=0e37ec2f-238b-ef11-8473-0022483029fa&emdi=1137ec2f-238b-ef11-8473-0022483029fa&ceid=8384968

 

CREATE:

• Build up your honesty superpower with these 10 honesty activities for kids: https://mentalhealthcenterkids.com/blogs/articles/honesty-activities-for-kids
• Can you believe everything you read? Sometimes it is hard to know the truth. Follow these tips to spot fake news, and test your ability, at https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/article/fake-news
• Play these games to learn about fake news: https://teachingkidsnews.com/fakenews/

 

CARE:

• Watch how to be safe on social media at https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=9osg-yh6uA0&ab_channel=TwinklTeachingResources-UnitedStates
• For parents: here are tips for teaching kids at different ages about honesty: https://www.parents.com/toddlers-preschoolers/discipline/improper-behavior/fantastic-fibs/ and here are insights about fibbing as part of child development: https://houstonfamilymagazine.com/featured/lying-or-pretending-teaching-kids-to-tell-the-truth/
• For preteens and above: watch these 3 tips on how to deal with a lie: https://www.tiktok.com/@justaskjefferson/video/7341850295942548778?lang=en

 

CAREERS:

Are you a truth seeker? News reporting can be a good career for you, or you might consider becoming a teacher or a librarian. Get the truth about these careers at the following websites.

• https://kpcnotebook.scholastic.com/post/what-it-be-journalist
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZO02Z_l38VA&ab_channel=ABCBigKids
• https://www.ucumberlands.edu/blog/high-impact-jobs-with-a-journalism-degree
• What are librarian careers? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MyOpL1Q8N-Y&ab_channel=CareerOneStop
• A day in the life of a children’s librarian: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oy-vERPOqdU&ab_channel=CityofDenton
• What do teachers do? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMZRaMWxkps&ab_channel=LittleBoat

Think Ink

 

How often you think about ink? It’s in pins, printers, even animals! Draw upon your new knowledge as you do these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch how ink is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01aeHXuiXig
• See how ink was discovered at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0NgOLF8f2M
• What is squid ink? Discover the answer at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiT79Lfxwps
• Read 16 surprising facts about printer ink (and toner) at https://www.tonerbuzz.com/blog/ink-and-toner-fun-facts/

 

CREATE:

• Make your own ink from household ingredients. See the directions at https://www.nps.gov/articles/ink-activity.htm#:~:text=Directions%3A%20Boil%20the%20raspberries%20with,it%20is%20ready%20to%20use!
• Create secret ink(shhh!) by following the directions at https://www.cmosc.org/invisible-ink-science-experiment-for-kids/
• Blow an ink monster ! See how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWZHOzOmGQw

 

CARE:

• For parents: to tattoo or not to tattoo: https://www.healthday.com/health-news/conditions/b-9-10-kids-temporary-tattoos-can-harm-skin-function-2654951206.html
• Watch how to remove ink safely at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=atDn_Zi7dSU
• Know someone with a tattoo? See what happens during laser tattoo removal at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6z2VO6pxwM

 

CAREERS:

Want to “ink in” your career? You can become a printer, an artist, a calligrapher, a tattoo artist, an ink manufacturer or seller, or a scientist. That’s a lot of ink! See some possibilities here.

• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Ink-Jobs
• https://www.careerexplorer.com/careers/calligrapher/
• How to become a tattoo artist: https://youtu.be/MRdl0tn1H0E

Cheer for Cheese!

 

By itself and in combination with other food, cheese is great! Find out why with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out 11 fun facts about cheese at https://www.popcornforthepeople.com/blogs/blog/11-fun-facts-about-cheese
• Watch the different types of cheese at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gATmYIO5p48
• See how cheese is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8AIamucOVQ
• Cheese is over 7000 years old! Read about its global history at https://kids.kiddle.co/History_of_cheese

 

CREATE:

• You can play with your food if it’s cheese. Discover how at https://www.himama.com/learning/child-activities/activity/yummy-cheese-play
• Cheese can also facilitate practical life activities: see how at https://www.howwemontessori.com/how-we-montessori/2019/09/six-practical-life-activities-using-cheese.html
• Make your own cottage cheese by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAPwpYDicT0
• Experiment with stretching cheese at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HGkIY4q6ttI

 

CARE:

• As a family, read about the benefits of cheese for kids at https://thelaughingcow-sea.com/articles/the-benefits-of-cheese-for-children-why-cheese-is-a-healthy-choice-for-kids/
•  And you can get more details per kind of cheese at https://thelaughingcow-sea.com/articles/the-benefits-of-cheese-for-children-why-cheese-is-a-healthy-choice-for-kids/
• Yes, you can care for cheese. See how at https://www.idfa.org/cheese-facts
• Find out how safe moldy cheese is at https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/food-and-nutrition/faq-20058492

 

CAREERS:

Thinking about a cheese-y job? You can make cheese, taste it, sell it, cook with it, and study it. Here are some yummy possibilities:

• https://careers.stateuniversity.com/pages/7/Cheese-Industry-Worker.html
• Selling cheese as a cheese monger: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=51w7gSHVqAc
• Cheese and milk processing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9_yIMWsdTs

Lauding Labor Day

Labor Day is celebrated in the United States on the first Monday of September. Many workers, even teachers, get the day off. Find out why by working on these activities. It’s a labor of love.

 

CONNECT:

• See the history of Labor Day at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KY_L8--kNB0
• Read these facts about Labor Day: https://countryhomelearningcenter.com/labor-day-facts-for-kids/
• When and how is Labor Day celebrated around the world? Find out the answers at https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/common/labor-day#:~:text=When%20and%20Where%20Is%20Labor,May%201%20as%20a%20holiday.
• The US has its own Department of Labor. Be impressed with their history at https://blog.dol.gov/2021/07/27/labor-department-history

 

CREATE:

• Try these family-friendly Labor Day activities: https://www.splashlearn.com/blog/labour-day-activities-for-kids/
• Dress up for Labor Day! Get inspired by these ideas: https://superminis.in/blogs/news/labour-day-fancy-dress-competition-ideas?srsltid=AfmBOooeJIgDouT2nO6QRO9A50pvGgQG1nZ3lqOyJkEMZZnl62aQMAeJ
• Get crafty on Labor Day at https://nationaltoday.com/blog/labor-day-crafts/

 

CARE:

• Learn about child labor reform at https://www.britannica.com/video/226768/did-you-know-child-labor-in-the-United-States
• See how people are combatting current child labor at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ckz4qccSVpY
• Labor Day can be a day of service as several of these activities demonstrate (such as thanking workers, volunteering): https://www.care.com/c/6-labor-day-activities-for-kids/

 

CAREERS:

“Labor” means work, especially work that is hard physical work. What are some jobs that demand hard physical work and can be very satisfying? Don’t want to take a job lying down? Get moving with these physically demanding jobs:

• https://stacker.com/careers/50-most-physical-jobs-america
• 15 riskiest jobs in the world: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nbx_-uvOZCg

Clean Up with Soap

 Can you imagine a world without soap? Get the dirt on soap with these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• How does soap work? Watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR7agvwDOD4
• Watch this history of soap and how it is made now at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FST4B_IXjUQ
• You can make a soap timeline by using these fun historical facts about soap: https://ukcleaning.co.uk/2017/12/11/15-fun-facts-about-soap-2/

 

CREATE:

• Watch soap grow at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_WA30cC9gy0. Then try it yourself!
• Make your own super soap bubbles the scientific way at https://www.homesciencetools.com/article/how-to-make-super-bubbles-science-project/
• Have some clean fun with these soap experiments: https://teachmama.com/soap-experiments/

 

CARE:

• How do soap and water make us clean? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XR7agvwDOD4
• Make a special soap gift by carving it. Follow the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mlonSS210Qs.  You can make your own design.
• For parents: get tips on cleaning safety for kids at https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/cleaning-tips/parents-and-caregivers/cleaning-safety-for-kids

 

CAREERS:

Think you’d like to “clean up” by having a soap-related career? Think of the possibilities: car washer, hair dressers, pet groomer, soap maker or seller, cleaner, scientist, even soap artist.

• A day in the life of a pet groomer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXQ9pjEmjkk
• Liquid soap manufacturing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YzH2YrT9_p4
• Dry cleaning process: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i6ZU0Hc3ap8

 

Meteors Rock!

 Think of meteors as space rocks. August is usually the best time to see meteors in the sky. Look into these activities and then look up for meteors.

 

CONNECT:

• What are meteors? Watch the answer and more at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBFfBz0n_SE
• Discover the history of meteors and meteorites at https://bedtimehistorystories.com/history-of-meteors-and-meteorites-for-kids/
• Visit Arizona’s meteor creator virtually at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yy3KXDQiTaY
• For teens and adults: watch the tragic history of a meteorite and the Inuits https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yvdtWfHpCR4

 

CREATE:

• Learn how to catch a meteorite at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjCK0lRpX04 and here’s a real story of a family who found a meteorite on their driveway!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EHGZywspR8
• Make creators with mini-meteors following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0a-rN5ARLw
• Have a shooting star party! See the details at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/meteor-shower/en/

 

CARE:

• Find out what stops meteors hitting Earth and hurting people at https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-what-stops-meteors-hitting-earth-and-hurting-people-228783
• Find meteorites in your house gutters; watch how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ej0X60b5dSI
• Learn how to catch a meteorite at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SjCK0lRpX04 and here’s a real story of a family who found a meteorite on their driveway!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EHGZywspR8

 

CAREERS:

Want a spacy career? Meteors and their “relatives” may lead to a job where the sky is the limit – like these examples:

• What is a planetary scientist? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CoTSNHD6S_U 
• and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngVmV3eokpA
• What is a meteorite hunter? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j5sIkYHjVeI

Rah for Rice

Rah for Rice

Rice is a staple food for people around the world. But how much do you know about this vital grain? Discover why you should hurray for rice by exploring these activities.

CONNECT:

• Check out these fun facts about rice at https://freerice.com/blog/10-fascinating-facts-about-rice
• Watch how rice is grown at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kxAEiHCErSA&t=28s
• See how kids react to rice dishes from around the world at
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=et1yp1pnw3A
• Be amazed with the science of rice at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4im1TNpPlOg

CREATE:

• Fill your senses with these rice-based sensory play ideas: https://besttoys4toddlers.com/rice-sensory-play-ideas-kids/
• Try these run rice crafts and recipes for kids: https://funfamilycrafts.com/rice-activities-crafts-for-kids/
• Make rice dance by following these directions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alMD3dq7Nec

CARE:

• How healthy is rice? Find out at https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-rice
• What would happen if you ate rice every day? Get the answers at https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8039484/eating-rice-every-day/
• Check out these tips on handling rice safely: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/business/food-safety/handling-rice-safely/

CAREERS:

Might rice be a staple part of your career? You can grow it, process it, sell it, cook with it, study it, even make art with it. Here are some possibilities:

• https://www.usarice.com
• Rice processing with technology: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ray8LsGvvgQ
• Rice artist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AruavMuIGpc

 

 

 

 

Bicycles Built for All

 

Bicycles can be built for -- and ridden by -- kids as well as adults and even professional bikers. Enjoy these activities as you get pumped up about bikes.

 

CONNECT:

• Check out this surprising stuff about your favorite two-wheeled transport: https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/ten-fun-facts-about-bikes
• Check out some of the science behind bikes at https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/vehicles/bicycles.html
• Watch and read about the history of bicycles at https://bedtimehistorystories.com/history-of-bicycles-for-kids/
• Watch the most famous bike race in the world: the Tour de France: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrx3lr7roks

 

CREATE:

• Build bike-riding skills with these fun activities: https://activeforlife.com/activities-improve-bike-riding-skills/
• Be entertained with your bike with these easy fun activities: https://www.twowheelingtots.com/15-biking-activities-for-summer/
• Try some of the kid-friendly games while riding a bike: https://guardianbikes.com/blogs/around-the-block/summer-games-for-kids-while-riding-a-bike
• How creative can you be in making a bike without wheels? Watch one solution at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y5b0DKfhPc4

 

CARE:

• Use this video to help you find the right size bike for each kid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYcmm-Cg87o
• Keep safe with your bike by following these ten rules: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PT1-mDlVyaI&t=1s
• Bike helmet safety can save your life; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sV9GjU7cA7o
• Keep your bike in good share with these bike maintenance ideas for the family: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEdAzZApaaA
• Did you get hurt from a bike accident? Here are same tips on treating minor cuts and bruises: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WsmwXnzl40g

 

 

CAREERS:

Bikes could be your wheel of fortune. You can be a manufacturer, a seller, a racer, a messenger, a repairer – or a doctor who “repairs” kids who have had bike accidents. Pedal through these possibilities.

• This 12-year-old started his own bike repair business for a good cause: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-_CBqmb-Ac
• See an Indian bike factory at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJHpu2mccH0
• Can you make a living as a bike messenger? See one possibility at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2I0fxeeI1sg

Sweet on Lemons

 It’s summertime, which often involves lemonade. One song about lemons reminds the listener that the flower is sweet but the lemon is sour. These sweet activities may make you feel less sour about lemons.

 

CONNECT:

• Enjoy fun facts about lemons at https://www.sciencekids.co.nz/sciencefacts/food/lemons.html
• See unique aspects of lemons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BydsqVH6sbg
• Discover why lemons are sour by watching https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loMHfA_xNGo 

CREATE:

• Experiment with lemons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNQmXbwJjLw
• Have kitchen fun with lemons at https://www.chopchopfamily.org/kidsclub/kids-club-vol-40-lemons/
• Squeeze out the learning with lemons at https://halseyschools.com/lemon-learning/

 

CARE:

• Check out the health benefits of lemons at https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/lemons
• Clean up with lemons; find out how at https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/20-fresh-ways-to-clean-with-lemon/
• Freshen your house with a lemon pomander; make it yourself following the directions at https://lifeasmom.com/diy-on-a-dime-make-a-citrus-pomander/

 

CAREERS:

Are you sweet on lemons? Several careers await you: gardener, chef, marketer. Read a few opportunities here:

• https://jeffashleylemontree.wordpress.com/careers-in-the-lemon-industry/
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VfRS6Jhr6ko

Iconic Symbols

 Nowadays we tend to think of icons as those tiny little pictures on the computer or phone, but icons have a long history – and have been associated with other concepts than technology. See the possibilities with these online activities. It could be an iconic experience.

CONNECT:

• Legos, the Beatles, and tea are all cultural icons. Find out why at https://kids.kiddle.co/Cultural_icon
• Read about computer icons and how are they used at https://wiki.kidzsearch.com/wiki/Computer_icon
• Watch the background about Orthodox religious icons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gvrkF3XDBk 

CREATE:

• Get fun ideas about drawing customized social media icons at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iieii87lCIM
• Symbols can be icons, such as United States symbols. Test your memory with the U.S. symbols match game at https://matchthememory.com/kimbrowning
• Can you guess these logs in 3 seconds? Try it as a family at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PNX8MY9lZw

CARE:

• What does the wheelchair symbol actually mean? Watch at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ppNYZq-hYTw
• Have you seen food safety icons? Check them out at https://www.foodprotection.org/resources/food-safety-icons/
• Health Icons is a volunteer effort to create a ‘global good’ for health projects all over the world. These icons are available in the public domain for use in any type of project. https://healthicons.org/about

CAREERS:

Dreaming about an iconic career? You could be a graphic designer, a sign maker, a religious leader, or an international communicator.

• (Almost) everything you need about icons in under 3 minutes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lCXFJEK_lVk
• https://usajobs.github.io/design-system/icons/
• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/graphic-design-jobs

 

Count on Carbon

What do coal and diamonds have in common? They are both carbon! Dig into this fundamental element with these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about carbon at https://easyscienceforkids.com/uses-of-carbon-video-for-kids/
• Watch the carbon cycle – and why it is so important at https://youtu.be/p3R-dB9K4ss
• See carbon chemistry at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gipyujuKMf4

CREATE:

• Draw with carbon in the form at charcoal at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UsK2KQoxa-U
• Manage carbon in your garden with the guidance of https://kidsgardening.org/resources/digging-deeper-carbon-cycle-and-carbon-sequestration/
• Experiment with carbon dioxide at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JcEQnDHLi4

CARE:

• Carbon and oxygen together can be healthy or deadly. Discover the impact of carbon monoxide on your body at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/safety-seymour/effects-carbon-monoxide-can-have-on-our-bodies-find-out-with-safety-seymour/
• What is a carbon footprint, and how do you reduce it? Find out at https://www.gokid.mobi/activities-for-kids-to-reduce-carbon-footprint/
• Check out ways to reduce carbon emissions at https://8billiontrees.com/carbon-offsets-credits/carbon-ecological-footprint-calculators/kids/

CAREERS:

Do you see the many career facets of carbon? Scientist, manufacturer, jeweler, artist, health care professional, chef, geologist, policy maker? Here is a glimpse of job opportunities.

• https://www.ziprecruiter.com/t/Most-Popular-Types-Of-Carbon-Emissions-Jobs
• Pencil manufacturing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqs3fxfmWr4
• How to cut a diamond: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lk8p0re8Eg
• Carbon projects: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yt5ySWAWWWw

Adding Ads to Your Life

 

You are surrounded by advertisement every day: on TV, in publications, on the radio, on billboards, and online. You might understand what is being communication, but do you know what is NOT stated? ADd to knowledge about ads with these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch the evolution of advertisements in 60 seconds at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7d3VAYGnXjY
• Read about the history of ads targeted to children at https://exhibits.library.duke.edu/exhibits/show/childrenads/intro
• See how food commercials are made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7iSFl5cp84
• What are some advertising techniques related to business and economics? See Christmas examples at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhPuRSiqvgM

 

CREATE:

• Enjoy this great advertising game and learn how to successfully create attractive and informative brochures and leaflets: https://www.funenglishgames.com/writinggames/advertising.html
• Targeting middle schoolers: analyze these ads: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQTrTiFbdSI. What do you see? What do you hear? is the message? How does the ad affect you – why? What techniques do they use for impact you?
• Watch how to make an advertisement at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7KJmZSrOao

 

CARE:

• Become more aware about online advisements by watching  this kid-centric video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQptrlOFMDw
• As a family, become ad smart by practicing these tips: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/articles/how-kids-can-resist-advertising-and-be-smart-consumers
• Watch how advertising rewires kids’ brains at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGN1ZEABk_Y

 

CAREERS:

Want to produce advertisements as much as consume them? Then maybe advertising is the field for you! Know that there are many aspects of advertising: marketing, writing, filming and photographing, layout, selling, budgeting, personnel. May I sell you on the advertising industry?

• https://advertisingindustry.careers/
• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/advertising-promotions-and-marketing-managers.htm
• How to get started in advertising: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_Yxnwmp_No

 

Potatoes are Hot!

 The potato is a cuisine mainstay of many cultures, impacting those cultures more over the centuries. Dig into these activities to chew on the facts about this famous vegetable.

 

CONNECT:

• Did you know that potatoes were the first vegetable grown in space? Discover this fact and 49 more potato facts at https://facts.net/potato-facts/
• Watch history through the eyes of the potato at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xROmDsULcLE
• See the potato king who grows 400 different kinds of potatoes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p9qWJ89m-hY

 

CREATE:

• Play with your food: here are 10 games that use potatoes: https://tinybeans.com/play-with-your-food-10-games-that-use-potatoes/
• Paint with potatoes by following the directions at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlTfDtTesKY
• Try experimenting with potatoes at https://sciencing.com/fun-science-experiments-potatoes-8216496.html

 

CARE:

• Try these healthy, kid-friendly potato recipes: https://mana.md/healthy-kid-friendly-potatoes/
• Grow your own potato; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5spUhmGneGw
• Learn how to buy and handle potatoes at https://www.usfoods.com/great-food/great-food-resources/produce-resources/potato-resources.html

 

CAREERS:

Are you eye-ing a potato career? Keep your eye out for the possibilities: as a farmer, cook, scientist, or even exporter.

• Watch how an Australian potato farm operates at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmuueelyQww
• https://innovature.com/article/meet-natalie-kaiser-scientist-harnessing-power-potatoes-through-plant-breeding-innovation
• https://www.nationalpotatocouncil.org/benefits-of-potatoes/potato-economics-jobs/

No Kidding on April Fools

 

April Fools' Day has a long history. No kidding! There are lots of fun with these activities.

CONNECT:

• Check out the top 10 facts about April Fools' Day at https://www.funkidslive.com/learn/top-10-facts/top-10-facts-about-april-fools-day/
• Watch historical April Fools' Day pranks around the world at https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/april-fools-pranks/
• There's more than one history of April Fools' Day. Read versions at https://greenlight.com/learning-center/fun-facts/april-fools-day

CREATE:

• Play these safe pranks on April Fools' Day: https://www.natgeokids.com/uk/discover/history/general-history/april-fools-pranks/
• And here some more kid-friendly April Fools' Day pranks to play: https://www.kindercare.com/content-hub/articles/2017/march/10-hilarious-april-fools-jokes-kids-will-love
• And here are 26 more harmless April Fools' pranks for family and friends: https://www.today.com/life/holidays/april-fools-pranks-rcna75932

CARE:

• For parents: At what age do kids understand pranks? Read pediatricians' answer at https://pediatricassociates.com/community/at-what-age-can-kids-understand-pranks/
• For parents: Pranks and other foolish behavior can get out of hand. Find out how to talk with your children about such consequential actions at https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/why-your-child-acts-that-way
• For parents: Not all pranks are bad; read this advice on teaching your children how to respond to pranks: https://www.languageoflistening.com/pranks-arent-all-bad/

CAREERS:

It's probably not a good idea to do pranks for a living, but you CAN do magic tricks as a job. You might also become a psychologist to help people cope with pranks.

• A magician's life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E010Ne2ST-I
• A child psychologist's life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIM2WCeWaeY

Blood is Good

 

We owe our lives to blood, even if sometimes we don’t like to look at it. Get an inside view about blood by delving into these online activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about blood at https://kidshealth.org/en/kids/blood.html.  (A teen version is available at https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/blood.html#:~:text=Blood%20brings%20oxygen%20and%20nutrients,carries%20hormones%20around%20the%20body.
• What’s the use of blood? Watch the answer at https://www.pbs.org/video/blood-video-short-plzfgf/
• Not all blood is red. Find out about the rainbow colors of animal blood at https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/animal-blood-comes-in-a-rainbow-of-colors?loggedin=true&rnd=1710954751879

 

 

CREATE:

• Experiment with these science activities about blood: https://www.science-sparks.com/science-activities-about-blood/
• Try these kid-friendly hands-on circulatory system activities (outside of the real circulatory system): https://www.weareteachers.com/circulatory-system-activities/
• You too can make (a model of) blood by following the directions at https://letsgolivescience.com/activity/how-to-make-blood/

 

CARE:

• Find out how easy it is to donate blood at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JY5fPvW_YUQ
• Watch what happens to blook after it is donated at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oZwtv9IJH6A
• See how a blood transfusion is done for kids: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDbd2y0oYM4
• Bonus: You might have an accident that results in a blood stain on your clothes. Here’s how to remove blood stains: https://thefabricofourlives.com/care-tips/stain-removal/blood-stains

 

CAREERS:

You don’t have to be a vampire to think about a career related to blood. Obviously, there are lots of options in the medical and health professions.  You can also go into the dry-cleaning or insurance business.  

• https://thefabricofourlives.com/care-tips/stain-removal/blood-stains
• Blood centers career video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MVVGilvcAvk

 

A tisket, a tasket, let's talk about a basket

 

We see baskets at home, at school, in public places. They are often a big part of Easter. How old are baskets? How have they been used? These questions weave a fun story that you can untangle by exploring these online activities.

CONNECT:

• Get the facts about baskets at https://kids.kiddle.co/Basket
• Baskets are almost 10,000 years old! Explore their history at https://www.haaretz.com/archaeology/2023-09-27/ty-article/earliest-baskets-in-europe-from-almost-10-000-years-ago-found-in-spanish-cave/0000018a-d71f-d476-abcf-f7ff5b860000
• Compare baskets from around the world at http://blog.projectbly.com/basket-case-baskets-from-around-the-world/

CREATE:

• Start with a couple of easy baskets to make for Easter – or any time – at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tz1ccR4A_Pk
• Have fun with a laundry basket at https://www.first5california.com/en-us/activities/basket-of-fun-toddler/#:~:text=Who%20knew%20a%20simple%20basket%20could%20be%20so%20much%20fun%3F&text=Place%20an%20empty%20laundry%20basket,them%20out%20one%20by%20one.
• Create and use a learning basket at https://www.freeandunfettered.com/montessori-inspired-learning-basket-activities-for-6-year-olds/

CARE:

• Make a morning basket for your family and friends at https://simplyfun.com/blogs/simplyfun-blog/fun-summer-morning-basket-ideas-for-kids
• Gain respect for the Cherokee when you try your hand at native American basket weaving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rt3Zw7WzHCs
• See an example of basket giving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ozam1uC0rTg. Maybe your friends can adapt this idea.

CAREERS:

Basket weaving techniques have been handed down through generations, and you can still leran the craft and even make a career of it. Here are a couple of examples.

• Watch how African American history has informed basket weaving at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8tEbC1nC0E
• See the genius of a traditional basket weaver at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJOuuoWay-0

And even if you can't make a basket, you can make a career from studying them as an archeologist, selling them, and using them as an interior decorator and gift packager – including for Easter!

OR you can make a basket as a basketball player ;-)

Presenting U.S. Presidents

 

When the United States became a nation, it chose to be led by a president rather than a king – and with a limited term. We honor past presidents officially once a year – but hopefully every day. Discover those presidents in these activities.

 

CONNECT:

• Watch what it takes to be U.S. President at https://youtu.be/GikqTRSvbSo
• Read fun facts about U.S. Presidents at https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/presidential-fun-facts
• George Washington was the first U.S. President. See what made him special at https://youtu.be/gQsVhebhJ0A

 

CREATE:

• Get active about U.S. presidents with these fun things to do: https://childcarelounge.com/pages/presidents-day-theme-and-activities
• Eat some favorite foods of the U.S. Presidents: https://www.businessinsider.com/presidents-favorite-food-dishes-white-house-2019-5
• Have a party for U.S. presidents with these ideas: https://www.easy-party-ideas-and-games.com/holidays-and-celebration.html

 

CARE:

• Last year the President signed the Keep Kids Fed Act. Get the details at https://www.agriculture.senate.gov/newsroom/dem/press/release/president-signs-the-keep-kids-fed-act
• U.S. Presidents are voted in. What is voting and why is it important? Find out the answers at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrG7zBUDiqQ
• Watch a pep talk from Kid President to you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-gQLqv9f4o

 

 CAREERS:

If you are a U.S. citizen and at last 35 years old, you could become President. And there are many jobs that help the President carry out the duties. Here are a few.

• White house residence staff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrG7zBUDiqQ
• President’s press secretary: https://kpcnotebook.scholastic.com/post/conversation-white-house-press-secretary
• Congress: https://www.timeforkids.com/g2/congress-work/?rl=en-450

 

 

Praise Pottery

 

Pottery has a long, international history. It is not only a useful draft but also an artful one. Get cracking with these activities!

 

CONNECT:

• One of the first civilizations to make pottery were the Egyptians. Get the facts at https://www.historyforkids.net/egyptian-pottery.html
• See how pottery is made around the world at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnsyAmwdIlI
• One special type of pottery is porcelain. See you it is made at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kab29IfdomQ
• LOTs of facts about pottery can be found at https://kids.kiddle.co/Pottery

 

CREATE:

• Make your own clay by following the directions at https://www.highlightskids.com/activities/crafts/make-homemade-clay#:~:text=Put%202%20cups%20of%20baking,Divide%20it%20into%204%20pieces.
• One of the easiest ways to produce pottery is starting by making a pinch pot. Learn how by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bELgM8aSqLc
• Another easy fun pot to make is a coil pot; see how at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GcpERzRVys
• Act like an archaeologist by piecing the history of pottery together: https://www.amnh.org/explore/ology/archaeology/piecing-it-all-together2#:~:text=One%20of%20the%20most%20common,as%20decorative%20bowls%20and%20vases.

 

CARE:

• Paint your own pottery party with these ideas: https://gluesticksblog.com/paint-your-own-pottery-party-for-kids/
• Have you ever broken pottery? The Japanese transform that breakage into an art form: Kintsugi. Get the details and try it out yourself at https://kids.discoveryplace.org/rockingham/stay-at-home-science/kintsugi-inspired-activity
• For parents: Read about the benefits of pottery for kids at https://ceramic.school/pottery-for-kids/?epik=dj0yJnU9NGo1SWZ1WTRQbUJ1SlJFVmdZelgxUDFQdWJhemV5MW8mcD0wJm49Y2ZQMUVuZEYtNExTSG9ocy1SVDNyUSZ0PUFBQUFBR1dMZG0w

 

CAREERS:

Do you go “potty” (as in very excited) about pottery? A career may await you: as an artist, a chemist, a manufacturer, an interior decorator, a teacher, a sales person, or even an archeologist! Dig into the possibilities here.

• https://learn.org/articles/Careers_in_Pottery_Frequently_Asked_Questions.html
• https://ceramicartsnetwork.org/daily/article/A-Pottery-Paycheck-Expert-Insights-into-Making-a-Living-as-a-Potter
• https://www.uwlax.edu/mvac/process-of-archaeology/lab-analysis/ceramic-analysis/